GCC food consumption is projected to grow to 55.5 million metric tonnes (MT) by 2029, up from approximately 50.9 million MT in 2024, according to the 2025 GCC Food Industry Report by Alpen Capital. This reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.7% over the five-year period, driven primarily by population growth, rising income levels, and evolving consumer preferences.
The report highlights that while staple food items such as cereals, meat, and dairy will continue to dominate the consumption landscape, demand is also increasing for convenience-based and health-focused food products. Among food categories, cereals are expected to see the highest growth, with a projected CAGR of 1.9%, followed closely by the “others” category—which includes fish, eggs, oils, and fats—at 1.8%.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE are expected to remain the largest food consumers in the region, collectively accounting for over 70% of total GCC consumption by 2029. Meanwhile, Oman is projected to experience the fastest growth rate in food consumption, with a CAGR of 3.8%, followed by Bahrain at 3.3%.
The Alpen Capital report also notes that ongoing investments in food security, local production, and infrastructure are shaping the future of the region’s food sector. Government initiatives across the GCC—particularly under national visions like Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030—are playing a key role in reshaping supply chains and increasing self-sufficiency.
With growing tourism, rising urbanisation, and an expanding middle class, the food and beverage sector is positioned as a cornerstone of the GCC’s broader economic development strategy over the next decade.
