Captivity Under Scrutiny: Reports of Neglect and Rescue in Zoos Across the Middle East and North Africa
Across the Middle East and North Africa, zoos and circuses have long been presented as places of leisure, education, or cultural tradition. From Gaza’s Rafah Zoo to Egypt’s Giza Zoo, from Lebanon’s roadside collections to Riyadh Zoo in Saudi Arabia, and from Al Ain Zoo in the UAE to Rabat Zoo in Morocco, these institutions are part of the region’s history. Yet recent rescues and investigations reveal a different reality: lions starving in Gaza, cubs like Sara suffering neglect in Lebanon, fatal attacks in Egyptian zoos and circuses, and disturbing reports during Giza Zoo’s 2026 reopening. These cases show that captivity itself creates harm, regardless of modernization or welfare claims, and that rescue remains the only meaningful response.
Plant‑Based Dining Normalized at Swiss International Scientific School Dubai
At the Swiss International Scientific School Dubai, one of the largest international schools in the UAE, plant‑based cuisine has become a normalized part of daily life. The catering provider, Swiss Canonica, operates a six‑week rotating international menu where vegan main dishes are featured every day, alongside starters, Chef’s Specials, and desserts.
Vegan Beauty Expands in the GCC: AXIS‑Y Introduces the “Climate of You” Philosophy
Vegan beauty is expanding across the Gulf, and AXIS‑Y’s arrival marks a defining moment in this movement. Certified as 100 percent vegan and cruelty‑free, the Korean skincare brand is bringing its signature “Climate of You” philosophy to Kuwait and Bahrain, two markets where demand for ethical cosmetics is rapidly growing. This philosophy, which emphasizes skincare tailored to environmental and lifestyle conditions, resonates strongly in the GCC’s unique climate and reflects a broader shift toward compassionate, plant‑based living in the region.
Vogaya: Dubai’s Luxury Vegan Handbags Redefining Fashion
Luxury is no longer defined by extravagance or excess. Around the world, consumers are rethinking what it means to own something truly refined. They are asking whether beauty can exist without harm, and whether elegance can be measured not only by design but also by values. Vogaya, a Dubai-born brand founded by Elke Steijns, is part of this transformation. With handbags crafted from coffee grounds and bamboo, Vogaya represents a new era of conscious luxury. As Steijns puts it: “Kindness is the new status symbol.”
Saudi Arabia’s Vegan Collagen Sector: Navigating Demand and Barriers
The Saudi vegan collagen sector is entering a dynamic growth phase, with annual expansion projected at 15 to 20 percent through the early 2030s. This momentum is driven by the rise of plant‑based lifestyles and the growing influence of clean beauty trends, which have become central to consumer choices in the Kingdom. Young, health‑conscious consumers are shaping demand, particularly in urban centers such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
Cheese Without Cows: Lebanon’s Plant‑Based Innovation in Dairy Alternatives
Lebanon’s culinary traditions are rich with dairy, from labneh and kishik to creamy desserts. Yet growing health concerns and ethical implications are reshaping the market, encouraging consumers to explore alternatives that align with wellbeing and compassion. Lebanese producers are responding to this shift by pioneering plant‑based cheese and milk alternatives, some of which are V‑Label certified. To showcase this transformation, we have prepared a selection of leading brands and their innovative products, highlighting how local producers are redefining dairy with healthier, ethical, and sustainable options.
Lebanon’s Dairy Campaign, Health Risks, and the Rise of Plant‑Based Alternatives
The Lebanese Ministry of Agriculture has promoted local dairy production and encouraged its consumption through national campaigns. While these initiatives have sought to boost the sector, dairy consumption in Lebanon and across the wider region nevertheless raises serious health concerns. The realities of dairy production also raise ethical questions about animal treatment that contrast with the cheerful imagery used in promotional campaigns. In light of these implications, several Lebanese producers are now offering plant‑based cheese alternatives, some of which are V‑Label certified, providing consumers with safe, transparent, and ethical options that directly address these concerns.
Dailish Expands to the UAE with Golden Prestige Vegan Skincare
The UAE has welcomed a new player in the ethical beauty space as Korean skincare brand Dailish officially launches its Golden Prestige Collection. This expansion marks the brand’s first entry into the Gulf region, reflecting the growing demand for vegan-certified, science-backed skincare among conscious consumers.
Abu al‑Alaʾ al‑Maʿarri: The Medieval Poet‑Philosopher Who Refused to Steal From Nature
Abu al‑Alaʾ al‑Maʿarri (973–1057 CE), the blind Syrian poet and philosopher from Maʿarrat al‑Nuʿman, is remembered as one of the earliest voices to reject the use of animals in every form. His stance was not about ritual or asceticism, but about justice. Through his poetry and his philosophical allegories, he articulated a vision that condemned food exploitation, labor exploitation, and unnecessary killing.
Mezete: Jordan’s Fully Vegan Middle Eastern Cuisine Reaches the U.S.
Mezete, a Jordanian brand created by Kasih Food Production Co., is redefining how Middle Eastern cuisine is experienced in the United States. Building on Kasih’s decades of expertise in producing tahini and halva, Mezete has developed a portfolio that is fully vegan, halal certified, Non‑GMO, and preservative‑free. With nationwide distribution through Whole Foods Market and major chains such as Giant Eagle, Albertsons, Meijer, and ShopRite, the brand is introducing American consumers to authentic plant‑based staples that go far beyond hummus. This expansion reflects both the cultural richness of the Levant and the growing demand for clean‑label vegan foods in mainstream markets.
How to Survive a Fast‑Paced Day as a Vegan Professional in the Middle East
In the fast‑paced rhythm of Middle Eastern cities, professionals often move from early meetings to late nights with little time to pause. For those who are vegan, the challenge is sharper: rushing through the day while trying to find meals that fit their values, keep them energized, and are actually available when hunger strikes. Offices, cafés, and street food stalls may offer plenty of quick options, but most are not vegan, leaving professionals to wonder how they can get through the day without compromise.
Saudi Arabia’s Vegan Hotspots: Exploring the Best Plant‑Based Options
Saudi Arabia’s dining scene is steadily opening up to vegan offerings, with plant‑based food becoming more visible across the Kingdom. Jeddah stands out with fully vegan anchors like Nabati and Sinless, complemented by vegan‑friendly venues such as Cleanse & Glow and Moon Shell. Riyadh, while lacking a fully vegan restaurant, continues to provide strong vegan‑friendly options through cafés and international kitchens. Beyond these major cities, Al Khobar, Medina, Mecca, and smaller centers including Tabuk, Dammam, Hofuf, and Al Qatif are introducing vegan choices through juice bars, casual cafés, and restaurants. Together, these offerings highlight a growing movement that places compassion, sustainability, and health at the heart of dining in Saudi Arabia.
From Cairo’s Streets to the World: Egypt’s National Dish Koshary, a Naturally Vegan Delight
If you wander through the bustling, sun‑drenched streets of Cairo, one sound will inevitably draw your attention: the metallic clanging of spoons against heavy aluminum bowls. This is the unmistakable rhythm of a Koshary shop, where cooks move with remarkable speed to assemble Egypt’s most beloved dish. Recognized by UNESCO as part of Egypt’s Intangible Cultural Heritage, Koshary is more than a meal; it is a cultural symbol, a story of resilience, and a celebration of flavors that have traveled across continents before finding their perfect harmony in Egyptian kitchens.
International Falafel Day: How a Middle Eastern Classic Became a Global Staple
Falafel’s journey is remarkable. Originating in the Middle East, this deep‑fried chickpea fritter was once a modest street food, sold from carts and small shops. Today, it has become a global symbol of plant‑based eating, appearing in fast‑casual chains, supermarket freezers, and home kitchens worldwide. International Falafel Day, observed every June 12, highlights how a dish rooted in tradition has become a universal favorite.
Animetrics Research on Türkiye: Motivations and Barriers Toward Plant‑Forward Diets
In 2026, Animetrics published its Türkiye Profile study, surveying 2,499 adults across the country to explore how consumers perceive plant‑forward diets, what motivates them to reduce animal consumption, and what barriers stand in the way. The report situates Türkiye within global debates on industrial animal agriculture, emphasizing how health, affordability, and cultural identity shape dietary choices. While meat continues to hold a central place in tradition and social identity, the study reveals a growing curiosity about plant‑based eating, particularly among younger and urban populations who are exposed to global food trends and sustainability narratives.
Lactose Intolerance and Dairy Alternatives in the Middle East: Market and Medical Perspectives
Lactose intolerance is one of the most prevalent food sensitivities in the Middle East, with recent peer‑reviewed studies in Saudi Arabia confirming prevalence rates ranging from 7% to over 45% depending on diagnostic methods. A cross‑sectional study in Riyadh found that nearly half of participants tested positive for lactose intolerance, highlighting the widespread nature of the condition. This medical evidence provides a clear explanation for the rapid expansion of plant‑based dairy alternatives across the region. The IndexBox report on the Middle East food intolerance products market further demonstrates how this health reality has translated into consumer demand, with dairy alternatives now representing the largest segment of intolerance‑related products.
Research by Animetrics on Kuwait: Protecting Farm Animals and Changing Consumer Attitudes
In 2026, Animetrics published its Kuwait study as part of a regional project exploring food systems and farmed animal welfare in Muslim‑majority societies. The Kuwait report provides insight into how cultural traditions, religious values, and modern consumer attitudes shape the country’s relationship with animals and food. Meat remains a central feature of Kuwaiti identity, symbolizing generosity, hospitality, and social belonging, especially during religious and family occasions. At the same time, the research shows that many consumers, particularly younger and urban respondents, are increasingly open to plant‑based diets and alternative proteins, viewing them as healthy and aligned with global sustainability efforts.
How to Navigate Eid al‑Adha as a Vegan: Compassionate Ways to Honor Tradition
Eid al‑Adha is a time of profound spiritual meaning, family gatherings, and acts of charity. For many, it is a celebration rooted in tradition, but for vegans it can also be emotionally challenging because of the central role animal sacrifice plays in Eid. Yet it is possible to honor the spirit of Eid while staying true to values of compassion and mercy, while inspiring others by showing that celebration can be rooted in kindness as well as faith.
Research by Animetrics on Qatar: Protecting Farmed Animals and Changing Consumer Attitudes
In 2026, Animetrics released its research on Qatar as part of a regional series examining food systems and animal welfare in Muslim‑majority societies. This study highlights how Qatar’s rapid development, cultural traditions, and global exposure are shaping consumer perspectives on food and the protection of farmed animals. By situating Qatar within the broader Gulf context, the research reveals both the persistence of hospitality rituals centered on meat and the growing openness among younger generations to plant‑based diets and welfare‑oriented practices.
Countdown to 2028: Australia’s Ban on Live Sheep Exports and the Middle East’s Dilemma
Australia’s landmark decision to legislate the end of live sheep exports by May 2028 marks one of the most significant animal welfare reforms in modern history. For decades, millions of sheep have been shipped across oceans in overcrowded vessels, enduring extreme heat and high mortality before facing slaughter abroad. The Middle East has been among the largest destinations for these shipments, with countries such as Jordan, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Qatar continuing to import live animals. As the countdown to 2028 begins, the question is no longer whether this trade will end in Australia but how Middle Eastern markets will respond to a global shift away from live animal transport.