Market Forecast By Beverage Type (Dairy Beverage, Non-Dairy Beverage), By Fermentation Type (Fermented, Non-Fermented), By Packaging (Paper Based, Glass Bottle, Plastic Bottle, Cans & Cartoons, Others), By Distribution Channel (Online, Offline) And Competitive Landscape
Product Code: ETC065518 | Publication Date: Jul 2023 | Updated Date: Feb 2025 | Product Type: Report | |
Publisher: 6Wresearch | No. of Pages: 70 | No. of Figures: 35 | No. of Tables: 5 | |
Report Name | Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market |
Forecast period | 2025-2031 |
CAGR | 4.2% |
Growing Sector | Food and Beverages |
The Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market report thoroughly covers the market by beverage type, fermentation type, packaging, and distribution channels. The market report provides an unbiased and detailed analysis of the ongoing market trends, opportunities/high growth areas, and market drivers which would help the stakeholders to devise and align their market strategies according to the current and future market dynamics.
Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market is witnessing significant growth, driven by changing consumer preferences towards convenient and long-lasting dairy options. Urbanization, health-consciousness, and the rise of fitness trends have fueled demand for specialized dairy products, such as organic, lactose-free, and vegan milk. Additionally, milk powder consumption is increasing due to its shelf life and versatility. The market is expanding as consumers seek nutritious and easy-to-store dairy products, with major players like Almarai and Rabouh Al Hofuf leading the sector. This shift aligns with the broader global trend of prioritizing convenience and health in food choices.
According to 6Wresearch, the Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 4.2% during the forecast period 2025-2031. The Saudi Arabia milk beverages market is experiencing substantial growth, driven by various factors that reflect the changing preferences and needs of the population. A growing health consciousness among consumers is one of the primary drivers, as more individuals seek nutritious and functional milk-based beverages. This trend is prompting the demand for fortified milk drinks, including options that are organic, lactose-free, and plant-based, catering to health-conscious consumers with specific dietary preferences. Additionally, the increasing popularity of functional beverages, such as those enriched with probiotics, calcium, and protein, is further fueling Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Growth, driven by a rising fitness culture and the desire for beverages that provide more than just basic hydration.
Urbanization and lifestyle changes are also contributing significantly to the expansion of the milk beverages market. As more people move to urban centers, there is an increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-drink milk products that fit into busy, on-the-go lifestyles. With higher disposable incomes and an increasing appetite for premium and diverse dairy products, consumers are more willing to invest in higher-quality milk beverages, including flavored and specialty milk options. The Saudi government's ongoing support for the dairy industry, including initiatives to reduce reliance on imports and enhance local production capabilities, is also playing a vital role in the sector's growth.
However, the market faces several challenges. Despite the growth of local production, Saudi Arabia still relies heavily on milk imports, which exposes the market to potential supply chain disruptions and price fluctuations, particularly due to geopolitical factors or global dairy shortages. Furthermore, the volatility of raw material prices, including feed costs for dairy cows and packaging materials, impacts the profitability of milk beverage manufacturers and often leads to higher retail prices for consumers. Stringent health and safety regulations also present challenges, especially for new entrants and businesses trying to introduce innovative products to the market. Compliance with these regulations can be costly and time-consuming, adding barriers to market entry and expansion.
Another key challenge comes from the increasing competition posed by non-dairy milk alternatives, such as almond, soy, and oat milk, which are becoming increasingly popular among health-conscious consumers seeking plant-based and lactose-free options. These alternatives are gradually gaining market share, putting pressure on traditional dairy-based milk beverages. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's harsh climate and ongoing water scarcity issues continue to challenge local dairy farming. This environmental strain limits the potential for local milk production and contributes to a reliance on imports, further increasing the cost of milk beverages in the region. Despite these challenges, the Saudi Arabia milk beverages market remains poised for continued growth as both local and international players adapt to the evolving consumer preferences and overcome the obstacles present in the sector.
Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market is witnessing several notable trends driven by changing consumer preferences and lifestyle shifts. One of the most prominent trends is the growing demand for health-conscious milk beverages, such as lactose-free, organic, and plant-based milk options. With an increasing focus on fitness and wellness, consumers are gravitating towards functional milk beverages enriched with added benefits like protein, probiotics, and vitamins. Flavored milk, particularly those infused with unique ingredients like chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla, is also gaining popularity, especially among younger consumers and children. The rise of convenient, ready-to-drink milk products is another significant trend, as urbanization and fast-paced lifestyles drive the need for easy-to-consume beverages. Additionally, there is a noticeable shift towards premium and specialty dairy products, as consumers become more willing to spend on higher-quality, innovative milk beverages.
The Saudi Arabia milk beverages market offers several promising investment opportunities, driven by evolving consumer preferences and a growing demand for health-conscious, convenient products. Investors can capitalize on the rising trend of plant-based and lactose-free milk beverages, catering to the increasing number of health-conscious consumers seeking alternatives to traditional dairy. The functional milk beverage segment, enriched with protein, probiotics, and other health benefits, presents another attractive opportunity as the fitness culture continues to thrive. Additionally, there is growing demand for premium, flavored, and specialty dairy products, opening doors for high-quality, innovative brands to tap into the evolving market. With the government's efforts to support domestic dairy production and reduce reliance on imports, there are opportunities for investment in local dairy farms, production facilities, and value-added products.
The Saudi Arabia milk beverages market is dominated by several leading players who have established strong brand presence and supply chains within the region. Almarai, one of the largest and most recognized dairy companies in the Middle East, leads the market with a broad range of milk and dairy-based beverages, including flavored milk, fresh milk, and UHT products. Nadec (National Agricultural Development Company) is another major player, offering a variety of milk-based beverages, and is known for its focus on quality and innovation.
Saudi Dairy & Food Industries (SADAFCO) is also a key competitor, particularly in the flavored milk and long-life milk segments. Other notable players include Al Safi Danone, a joint venture between Saudi-based Al Safi and the global brand Danone, which provides a range of dairy drinks, and Al-Othaim Food, which also contributes to the market with its own portfolio of milk-based beverages. These companies, backed by strong distribution networks and local production facilities, continue to lead the Saudi milk beverages market by meeting the diverse demands of health-conscious consumers while investing in product innovation and sustainability.
The government enforces a range of regulations to ensure the safety, quality, and sustainability of the milk beverages market. These regulations are primarily managed by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), which sets strict guidelines for the production, packaging, and labeling of dairy products. The SFDA ensures that all milk and milk-based beverages meet health and safety standards, including hygiene protocols during manufacturing and storage, as well as the prevention of contamination. Additionally, the Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture (MEWA) regulates the dairy farming sector, focusing on sustainable farming practices, animal welfare, and water usage, given the country’s resource constraints.
For importers, there are regulations regarding the quality and safety of foreign dairy products entering the market. These include compliance with the SFDA’s standards for food safety, labeling requirements in Arabic, and certification for dairy products’ adherence to halal standards, which is crucial for the predominantly Muslim population. The government also promotes local production through incentives and subsidies to reduce dependence on imports and boost domestic dairy farms, encouraging investment in the local dairy industry.
Furthermore, the government is increasingly focused on reducing environmental impacts, pushing for more sustainable practices in production, packaging, and distribution. As part of its Vision 2030 initiative, Saudi Arabia is looking to enhance food security and diversify local food production, which has led to a growing emphasis on modernizing the dairy sector, including milk beverage production, through technological innovations and efficient resource management. These regulations ensure the market operates smoothly, promotes healthy consumer choices, and supports the growth of the local dairy industry.
The future of the Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market looks promising, with several key trends and opportunities shaping its growth trajectory. As consumer preferences continue to shift toward healthier and more sustainable options, there will be increased demand for functional milk beverages, such as those enriched with protein, probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. This trend aligns with the rising awareness of health and wellness, especially among younger, more fitness-focused consumers. Additionally, the plant-based milk segment, including alternatives like oat, almond, and soy milk, is expected to grow as more consumers seek lactose-free and vegan options.
The report offers a comprehensive study of the subsequent market segments and their leading categories.
According to Kapil, Senior Research Analyst, 6Wresearch, the dairy beverage segment is currently dominating and experiencing significant growth in the Saudi Arabia milk beverages market. This growth is primarily driven by the continued preference for traditional dairy-based products, such as flavored milk, fresh milk, and UHT (Ultra High Temperature) milk, which are widely consumed across the country. Consumers in Saudi Arabia are increasingly inclined toward milk beverages due to their nutritional value, including protein, calcium, and essential vitamins. Additionally, the convenience of ready-to-drink dairy products and the growing trend of functional milk beverages, such as those enriched with probiotics or fortified with additional nutrients, are further propelling the growth of this segment.
The fermented milk beverages segment is experiencing notable growth in the Saudi Arabia milk beverages market. This growth is largely driven by the increasing popularity of probiotic-rich beverages such as yogurt drinks, kefir, and laban, which are known for their digestive and immune-boosting benefits. With a rising health-conscious consumer base, many are turning to fermented milk products for their potential to improve gut health and enhance overall well-being. Fermented milk beverages are also gaining traction due to their traditional roots in Saudi culture, making them a familiar and trusted option for consumers. Additionally, the trend of functional foods—products that offer additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition—has accelerated the demand for fermented milk beverages, which aligns with the growing interest in foods that support a healthy lifestyle. As a result, brands are innovating with new flavors, formulations, and packaging, making this segment a key driver of growth in the market.
The plastic bottle segment is experiencing the most significant growth in the Saudi Arabia milk beverages market. This growth can be attributed to the convenience, cost-effectiveness, and durability of plastic packaging, making it an ideal choice for both manufacturers and consumers. Plastic bottles are lightweight, portable, and less prone to breakage compared to glass, which aligns with the increasing demand for on-the-go milk beverages in urban areas. Additionally, plastic packaging offers a longer shelf life for milk products, which is particularly important for the popular UHT milk beverages.
The offline distribution channel is currently dominating and experiencing significant growth in the Saudi Arabia milk beverages market. This is largely due to the traditional reliance on physical retail outlets such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, which continue to be the primary shopping destinations for consumers. In Saudi Arabia, consumers are accustomed to buying milk and milk-based beverages in person, where they can directly assess product quality and freshness.
The report provides a detailed analysis of the following market segments:
1 Executive Summary |
2 Introduction |
2.1 Key Highlights of the Report |
2.2 Report Description |
2.3 Market Scope & Segmentation |
2.4 Research Methodology |
2.5 Assumptions |
3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Overview |
3.1 Saudi Arabia Country Macro Economic Indicators |
3.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, 2021 & 2031F |
3.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market - Industry Life Cycle |
3.4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market - Porter's Five Forces |
3.5 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Beverage Type, 2021 & 2031F |
3.6 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Fermentation Type, 2021 & 2031F |
3.7 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Packaging, 2021 & 2031F |
3.8 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume Share, By Distribution Channel, 2021 & 2031F |
4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Dynamics |
4.1 Impact Analysis |
4.2 Market Drivers |
4.3 Market Restraints |
5 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Trends |
6 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market, By Types |
6.1 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market, By Beverage Type |
6.1.1 Overview and Analysis |
6.1.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Beverage Type, 2021 - 2031F |
6.1.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Dairy Beverage, 2021 - 2031F |
6.1.4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Non-Dairy Beverage, 2021 - 2031F |
6.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market, By Fermentation Type |
6.2.1 Overview and Analysis |
6.2.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Fermented, 2021 - 2031F |
6.2.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Non-Fermented, 2021 - 2031F |
6.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market, By Packaging |
6.3.1 Overview and Analysis |
6.3.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Paper Based, 2021 - 2031F |
6.3.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Glass Bottle, 2021 - 2031F |
6.3.4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Plastic Bottle, 2021 - 2031F |
6.3.5 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Cans & Cartoons, 2021 - 2031F |
6.3.6 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Others, 2021 - 2031F |
6.4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market, By Distribution Channel |
6.4.1 Overview and Analysis |
6.4.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Online, 2021 - 2031F |
6.4.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenues & Volume, By Offline, 2021 - 2031F |
7 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Import-Export Trade Statistics |
7.1 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Export to Major Countries |
7.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Imports from Major Countries |
8 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Key Performance Indicators |
9 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market - Opportunity Assessment |
9.1 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Opportunity Assessment, By Beverage Type, 2021 & 2031F |
9.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Opportunity Assessment, By Fermentation Type, 2021 & 2031F |
9.3 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Opportunity Assessment, By Packaging, 2021 & 2031F |
9.4 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Opportunity Assessment, By Distribution Channel, 2021 & 2031F |
10 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market - Competitive Landscape |
10.1 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Revenue Share, By Companies, 2024 |
10.2 Saudi Arabia Milk Beverages Market Competitive Benchmarking, By Operating and Technical Parameters |
11 Company Profiles |
12 Recommendations |
13 Disclaimer |