In light of National Ice Cream Day on July 21, we enjoy a little taste of the Middle East’s ice-cream market.
Recent reports by Mordor Intelligence, Euromonitor International, and Arizton value the MEA’s ice-cream market at USD 80.61 billion in 2023. It is anticipated to grow steadily at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.41percent from 2024 to 2029.
Furthermore, the Middle East leads globally in ice-cream consumption, with annual consumption exceeding 1.5 billion liters. Saudi Arabia leads with an estimated annual intake of over 500 million liters. The UAE follows closely, consuming more than 300 million liters per year.
Looking at the broader frozen desserts market, the Middle East and Africa combined reached USD 1.62 billion in 2022. Analysts expect this market segment to grow steadily, projecting a CAGR of 2.2 percent and aiming for USD 1.85 billion by 2028.
Factors driving the Middle East ice-cream market’s expansion include the adoption of Western food trends and increasing demand for premium and exotic flavors. These trends will contribute to a robust CAGR of over 4 percent from 2024 to 2029.
In summary, the Middle East ice-cream market is sizable and rapidly growing, driven by high per capita consumption, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Rising disposable incomes, tourism growth, and consumer demand for innovative ice cream products will drive continued expansion.