The Middle East has emerged as one of the most dynamic growth markets for poultry, underpinned by steady population growth, expanding foodservice sectors, and government efforts to strengthen food security. While domestic production across some countries in the Middle East has been scaling up in recent years, the region remains heavily reliant on imports. Rising tourism, mega-events, and long-term diversification strategies are turning the region into a strategic battleground for global exporters, including those from Europe.

In recent years, the wealthier Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, and Bahrain, have become increasingly attractive destinations for European poultry exporters. Continued population growth, rising incomes, and limited scope to significantly expand domestic production capacity are expected to reinforce this trend.

Population surge

The population is expected to grow in the Middle East by 20 million people towards 2029, of which 50% are under 25 years of age, commented Stig Munck Larsen, chief consultant at the Danish Agriculture and Food Council and chair of AVEC’s Trade Working Group.

“This new demographic landscape will increase poultry meat consumption both now and in the future,” Larsen said. “Despite growth in local production, the need for higher imports in the region is clear. Today, import demand is around 2.5 million tonnes with a modest and increasing trend in the coming years, although this demand will vary between countries.”

Forecasts through the 2030s suggest continued growth in the Middle East poultry market, driven by population growth, rising per capita consumption, and urbanisation. According to think tank IndexBox, by 2035, the market’s volume could approach 10 million tonnes and its value over USD$20 billion, increasing at a moderate compound annual growth rate around 1% in volume and 2.2% in value over the 2024-35 period.

Source: www.poultryworld.net