Cruelty-Free and Culturally Rooted: The Vegan Cosmetics Surge in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is no longer just a consumer of global beauty trends — it’s becoming a regional leader in ethical cosmetics. According to a 2025 market report, the Saudi vegan cosmetics sector is projected to grow from USD 165.28 billion in 2024 to USD 267.98 billion by 2030, driven by a compound annual growth rate of 8.45%.
Mapping the Growth of Vegan Protein in the Arab Region: How Conscious Nutrition is Shaping the Future
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.
UAE Clears Path for Cultured Meat Expansion—Regional Market to Hit $74M by 2030
The Middle East’s protein landscape is entering a new phase of innovation and execution. With the UAE scaling cultivated meat infrastructure through its AGWA food-tech hub in Abu Dhabi, the region is positioning itself as a strategic center for ethical, sustainable, and locally driven protein solutions.
Building the Future of Food: How Saudi Arabia’s Vegan Meat, Dairy Alternatives, Luxury, and Biotech Sectors Are Redefining Conscious Consumption
Saudi Arabia’s plant-based transformation is no longer a fringe movement—it’s a multi-sector redefinition of how the Kingdom eats, innovates, and expresses values. From the explosive growth of the vegan meat market to the rise of dairy alternatives, ethical luxury, and biotech infrastructure, the Kingdom is crafting a new identity—one rooted in sustainability, cultural heritage, and conscious innovation.
The Protein Paradox: Tradition vs. Transformation in the Middle East — A Region Caught Between Ritual and Reform
The Middle East is experiencing a profound shift in its food identity. For generations, meat has been more than nourishment—it’s been a symbol of hospitality, religious devotion, and cultural pride. From lamb feasts during Eid to grilled kofta at family gatherings, animal protein is deeply embedded in the region’s traditions. Yet today, a new narrative is emerging—one shaped by growing concerns over climate change, public health, animal welfare, and food security. Sustainability is no longer a fringe concept; it’s a regional priority. Conscious and ethical consumption is gaining traction, especially among younger generations who are questioning long-held assumptions about food and its impact.
Hummus Rising: A Middle Eastern Staple Goes Global — With Tahina Unlocking a Complete Amino Acid Profile
Once a humble mezze dish passed from hand to hand across Levantine tables, hummus is now a global culinary icon — and a quiet nutritional powerhouse. According to recent market analysis, the global hummus industry is projected to reach USD 4.5 billion by 2035, driven by rising health awareness, plant-based diets, and culinary innovation. But for the Middle East Vegan Society, this isn’t just a market trend. It’s a moment of cultural affirmation — and biochemical surprise.
The Gulf’s Plant-Based Rise: Wellness, Innovation, and Culinary Transformation
In 2025, the Gulf’s dining landscape is undergoing a vibrant transformation. From Abu Dhabi to Muscat, consumers are embracing health-driven choices, plant-based innovation, and cutting-edge culinary technology. Plant-based offerings are no longer niche—they’re central to how the region eats, innovates, and redefines luxury.
New Archaeological Research Reveals Bronze Age Plant-Based Diets in the Middle East
New archaeological research from the UAE and Oman is reshaping our understanding of Bronze Age diets—revealing that plant-based eating was far more prevalent than previously believed. For decades, scholars assumed that Bronze Age communities in the Arabian Peninsula relied primarily on meat and dairy. But a recent study led by Dr. Akshyeta Suryanarayan of the University of Cambridge challenges that narrative. Through advanced lipid residue analysis of 179 pottery fragments from sites like Hili 8 and Hili North Tomb A, researchers uncovered chemical traces of plant-derived compounds, including markers from cereals and date palms.
Saudi Arabia’s Protein Bar Boom: A Gateway for Plant-Based Innovation
Saudi Arabia’s wellness revolution is reshaping snack culture — and it’s packed with plant-powered potential. According to IMARC Group’s latest market report, the country’s protein bar market is projected to grow from USD 30 million in 2024 to USD 50 million by 2033, with a steady 4.2% CAGR. But beyond the numbers lies a deeper story: one of cultural evolution, ethical choices, and the rise of vegan nutrition.
A Call from Abu Dhabi: Global Alignment for Alternative Proteins
In her op-ed for The National, Fatima Al Dhaheri, head of the AgriFood Growth and Abundance cluster at the Abu Dhabi Investment Office, confronts a critical impasse in the evolution of food systems. Alternative proteins—plant-based, cultivated, and precision-fermented—offer sustainable solutions to a world choked by climate breakdown and agricultural instability. Yet, instead of accelerating their integration, global regulators have created an obstacle course of inconsistent approvals, high compliance costs, and fragmented market access.
Out of Water, Into Agony: New Study Reveals the Hidden Torment of Fish
By now, most of us understand that animals feel pain. But when it comes to aquatic life, this understanding often dissolves like salt in water. A groundbreaking study published in Scientific Reports has exposed the harrowing reality too often ignored: the prolonged suffering fish endure when pulled from water. Led by Cynthia Schuck-Paim of the Welfare Footprint Institute, the research quantifies what was long felt intuitively by animal advocates. When fish, particularly rainbow trout, are removed from water and left to die by asphyxiation—a common commercial practice—they can experience up to 22 minutes of intense pain.
Research Reveals the Health Benefits of Daily Chickpea & Black Bean Consumption
For centuries, the Middle East has embraced nutrient-rich foods, with chickpeas standing out as a staple. Originating in the Fertile Crescent, they’ve shaped Levantine cuisine, featuring in hummus, falafel, and hearty stews. But beyond their culinary significance, chickpeas have now gained scientific recognition for their cholesterol-lowering and inflammation-reducing properties. At the NUTRITION 2025 conference, scientists from the Illinois Institute of Technology presented findings showing that daily legume consumption—including chickpeas and black beans—can provide measurable health benefits. Their 12-week study on 72 adults with prediabetes tracked the effects of eating one cup of chickpeas, black beans, or rice per day, with striking results.
Plant-Based Revolution in Saudi Arabia: Meat Substitutes Gain Momentum
Saudi Arabia is experiencing a notable shift toward plant-based diets. A recent report on the Saudi Arabia meat substitutes market estimates its value at USD 124.56 million in 2024, with projections to reach USD 168.56 million by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 5.17%. This steady expansion highlights evolving consumer preferences, as more individuals embrace alternative protein sources that promote health, minimize environmental impact, and support ethical consumption values.
The Plant-Based Milk Revolution in Saudi Arabia: Trends, Challenges & Opportunities
Saudi Arabia’s dairy industry is undergoing a significant transformation with the rising demand for plant-based alternatives. As global dietary preferences shift toward sustainability and health-conscious choices, the Saudi market is embracing dairy-free options, presenting immense opportunities for growth
UAE Soy Milk Market: Unprecedented Growth and Promising Future
According to a report published on May 9, 2025, the UAE soy milk market is experiencing remarkable expansion, driven by shifting consumer preferences toward healthier, plant-based alternatives. With rising health awareness, environmental consciousness, and dietary diversification, soy milk has established itself as a leading choice in the non-dairy sector. As demand surges, manufacturers are investing in innovation and market strategies to solidify soy milk’s presence in households, cafes, and retail stores across the region.
The Role of the Rising Vegan Population in Boosting Xanthan Gum Demand in the Middle East
Xanthan gum, a plant-based thickener and stabilizer, has become a popular replacement for animal-derived ingredients such as gelatin and eggs. This versatile ingredient is making waves in various industries, from food and cosmetics to oil and gas. According to recent research, the xanthan gum market in the Middle East is set to grow significantly, with its valuation projected to rise from $19.81 million in 2023 to $32.79 million by 2032, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.76%. Central to this expansion is the growing vegan population in the region, which has surged by 300% in recent years, alongside the rising demand for clean-label products and sustainable solutions.
Global Hummus Market, Rooted in Middle Eastern Tradition, Set for Significant Growth by 2032
The global hummus market is poised for remarkable growth in the coming years, with projections indicating a substantial increase from USD 4.21 billion in 2024 to USD 10.05 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.49% during the forecast period. According to a recent market analysis, the market's growth is driven by the rising demand for plant-based and enjoyable dips, as well as increasing consumer awareness about health benefits and animal welfare. Hummus, a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine for centuries, has gained popularity worldwide for its simplicity, nutritional value, and versatility.
Surge in Demand for Plant-Based Milk in Saudi Arabia: Market Poised for Growth
As the demand for healthier and more sustainable food options continues to rise, the plant-based milk market in Saudi Arabia is experiencing significant growth. According to a recent comprehensive report by Report Ocean, the market is expected to expand considerably by 2033, driven by increasing health consciousness, the rise of veganism, and lactose intolerance among consumers.
Turkish Researchers Secure Horizon Europe Funding for Plant-Based Protein Innovation
In a significant stride towards sustainable food production, a team of Turkish researchers led by Professor Mecit Halil Öztop from Middle East Technical University (METU) has secured Horizon Europe funding. The project, named APRISE, aims to develop new types of plant-based alternative proteins from staple Turkish crops. This initiative is part of METU's first consortium leadership within the Horizon Europe Program and is one of only 13 projects selected from 117 proposals under the WIDERA ERA Talents call.
Understanding Emiratis' Willingness to Replace Meat with Alternative Proteins
Replacing animal protein with alternative sources is gaining popularity for creating sustainable food systems and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Understanding consumers' views on alternative proteins in the UAE is crucial for widespread adoption. This study investigates the influence of dietary habits, objective knowledge, attitudes, subjective norms, and perceived behavioral control on the willingness to replace meat with alternatives among Emiratis in the UAE. Further, the factors that drive this willingness are explored.