Growth Outlook 2026: Middle East & Africa Plant-Based Market at USD 390M, Rising to USD 560M by 2031

The Middle East and Africa market for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives is projected to reach USD 560.5 million by 2031, growing at a 6.21 percent CAGR. This trajectory reflects structural changes in food systems, government strategies, and rising health awareness across the region, with notable momentum in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Egypt. Insights from the latest Mordor Intelligence report highlight how these dynamics are shaping the industry’s future.

Market Overview

The industry is expected to grow from USD 390.45 million in 2025 to USD 414.7 million in 2026, before reaching USD 560.49 million in 2031. Plant-based meat currently dominates revenues, accounting for 67.95 percent of the market in 2025, while dairy alternatives are the fastest-growing segment with a projected CAGR of 7.21 percent. Soy remains the leading protein source with 41.86 percent of the market share in 2025, but pea protein is expanding at the fastest rate, with a CAGR of 7.55 percent. Retail channels represent the majority of sales, at 57.1 percent in 2025, while foodservice channels are growing more rapidly at 6.88 percent CAGR.

Growth Drivers

Geographically, South Africa leads the market with 29.75 percent of sales in 2025. However, Saudi Arabia is the fastest-growing market, with a CAGR of 7.34 percent, driven by Vision 2030 initiatives that emphasize food security and diversification. The United Arab Emirates is positioning itself as a hub for innovation, with projects such as the Future Food Foundry supporting startups and global partnerships. Egypt is witnessing expanding demand for dairy alternatives due to high lactose intolerance rates and the growing café culture in urban centers. Lebanon and Jordan are also seeing rising interest among younger demographics, influenced by global dietary trends and increasing awareness of sustainability.

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 emphasizes food security and diversification, with investments in alternative proteins and local production facilities. The United Arab Emirates is positioned as a regional innovation hub, supporting startups and global partnerships to accelerate product development. Egypt’s high prevalence of lactose intolerance and growing urban café culture are driving demand for dairy alternatives. Lebanon and Jordan are experiencing rising interest among younger demographics, influenced by global dietary trends and increasing awareness of sustainability.

Challenges

The price gap remains a significant barrier, as plant-based products are still 40 to 60 percent more expensive than conventional options. Supply chains are heavily dependent on imports from Europe, India, and the United States, which limits local resilience. Cultural resistance in traditional communities continues to slow adoption, with limited awareness of the benefits of plant-based alternatives.

Outlook

Plant-based meat will continue to dominate revenues, but dairy alternatives are accelerating, particularly in urban centers across the Gulf and North Africa. Regional innovation and manufacturing investments are expected to reduce costs and improve accessibility. The Mordor Intelligence report underscores that the market’s trajectory is shaped by health, sustainability, and government policy, positioning plant-based proteins as a central element in the future of food across the Middle East and Africa.