Mapping the Growth of Vegan Protein in the Arab Region: How Conscious Nutrition is Shaping the Future
The expansion of vegan and plant-based diets is one of the largest drivers behind the rising demand for plant-derived protein ingredients, fueling significant growth in the plant-based protein market. Consumers in the Arab region and globally are increasingly seeking proteins from sources such as lentils, chickpeas, fava beans, peas, soybeans, rice, and hemp—not only appealing to vegans but also attracting health-conscious individuals pursuing sustainable, functional nutrition. According to the Middle East & Africa Plant-Based Protein Market Outlook, 2030, the region is blending its rich culinary heritage with modern innovations, positioning itself at the intersection of tradition and transformation.
Market Momentum & Consumer Demand
The plant-based protein market is experiencing strong growth both globally and in the Middle East, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable and health-conscious nutrition. The global vegan food market is projected to expand from USD 22.38 billion in 2025 to USD 55.88 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 10.7% (Vegan Food Market Forecast). Similarly, the global plant-based protein market is expected to nearly double, reaching USD 43.07 billion by 2034 from USD 20.33 billion in 2025, with an annual growth rate of 8.7% (Plant-Based Protein Market Report). The plant-based dairy sector is also booming, forecasted to hit USD 34 billion by 2030, led by oat milk, vegan cheese, and yogurt alternatives (Plant-Based Dairy Market Insights).
Within this global surge, the Middle East plant-based protein market is carving out its own significant trajectory. Estimated at approximately USD 0.95 billion in 2025, the regional market is expected to grow steadily to around USD 1.29 billion by 2030, expanding at a CAGR of about 6.4% (Middle East & Africa Plant-Based Protein Market Outlook, 2030).
Middle East Momentum
The Arab region is rapidly adapting to this global shift, with cities like Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha leading the charge. According to the regional market report, demand for clean-label, Halal-certified, and allergen-free plant protein products is surging—especially in alt-dairy beverages, protein-enriched ready meals, and vegan snacks.
Retailers like Spinneys UAE, Carrefour UAE, and Lulu Hypermarket are expanding shelf space for vegan products.
UAE-based processors are testing cold-pressed and enzyme-based methods to improve protein yield from pulses.
Local manufacturers are increasingly using chickpea, fava bean, mung bean, and lentil proteins, aligned with regional crop availability and taste preferences.
In October 2022, Change Foods partnered with Khalifa Economic Zones Abu Dhabi to build an animal-free dairy facility—marking a major commitment to food-tech infrastructure.
Functional Foods & Ethical Innovation
Functional foods and beverages are gaining traction across the region, offering benefits beyond basic nutrition:
Protein-fortified smoothies and snacks for energy and satiety
Meal replacements for weight management and muscle recovery
Halal-certified, vegan protein blends that meet both ethical and religious dietary standards
In July 2024, Beyond Meat launched a new protein product aimed at health-conscious consumers, further validating the market’s momentum.
Supply Chain & Sustainability
Despite growing demand, the region still relies heavily on imports from Europe, India, and the US for protein isolates and concentrates. This dependency drives up costs due to freight, tariffs, and currency volatility. Governments across the Arab world are responding with national food security strategies and investment in domestic processing infrastructure to reduce reliance on imports and support local innovation.