UAE Ethnic Snacks market size was USD 136.37 Million in 2024 and the market is projected to touch USD 269.14 Million by 2035, at a CAGR of 7.5% during the forecast period. The market for ethnic snacks in the United Arab Emirates is being significantly boosted by the rising trend of e-commerce as well as the expanding popularity of the retail industry. These retail giants have dedicated sections for international treats so that foreigners may find their favorite snacks in the convenience of their own homes. Additionally, specialty ethnic stores cater to certain demographics by providing a somewhat tailored selection of traditional foods. E-commerce platforms also give its clients convenience and a large selection of goods. With 99% of the population routinely using the internet, the nation has the highest percentage in the world. Customers can make purchases with a few clicks thanks to websites like Amazon, Noon, and regional online grocery delivery services.
Ethnic snacks made locally and imported must meet strict requirements for ingredients, packaging, & certifications due to the UAE's strict food safety and labeling laws. Operating expenses may go up as a result of manufacturers having to make sure that Halal certifications, allergen disclosures, & nutritional labels are followed. It can be quite difficult for smaller manufacturers or exporters who are not familiar with these procedures to achieve regulatory standards, which can cause delays or limitations in market entry. The market's potential for growth may suffer from product recalls or limitations brought on by noncompliance.
UAE Ethnic Snacks report scope and segmentation.
Report Attribute |
Details |
Base Year |
2024 |
Forecast Years |
2025 – 2035 |
Estimated Market Value (2024) |
USD 136.37 Million |
Projected Market Value (2035) |
USD 269.14Million |
Segments Covered |
By Product Type, By Nature, By Flavor, By Dietary Preference, By Convenience, By Pack Size, By End-user & By Region. |
Forecast Units |
Value (USD Million or Billion) |
Quantitative Units |
Revenue in USD Million/Million and CAGR from 2025 to 2035. |
Regions Covered |
UAE (United Arab Emirates) |
Cities Covered |
Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah, among. |
UAE Ethnic Snacks dynamics
The market for ethnic snacks in the United Arab Emirates is expanding due in large part to product innovation. The manufacturing sector are always trying with novel ideas to meet the changing demands of various market segments. For instance, the increased demand from health-conscious individuals is met by the launch of low-fat baked products along with additional healthy baked snack choices. Innovative millet-based cereals and snacks were introduced in the United Arab Emirates in 2024 by Tata Soulfull, a part of Tata Consumer Products Limited. The muesli line features Tata Soulfull Millet Muesli Crunchy & Millet Muesli Fruit & Nut, while the finger millet cereal family offers Tata Soulfull Ragi Bites Crunchy Choco & Ragi Bites Choco Fills.
Fusion snacks are becoming increasingly popular because they offer a unique culinary experience that draws in customers. Innovations in packaging carry equal weight. Single-serve, pre-packaged containers make ethnic snacks easier to carry on the go and are ideal for families and working professionals. Additionally, eco-friendly packaging is increasingly being employed to satisfy customers that care about the environment.
UAE Ethnic Snacks drivers
Increasing Expatriate Population and Cultural Diversity
With sizable communities from South Asia, the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, the United Arab Emirates is home to a sizable and varied expatriate community. The demand for ethnic snacks that represent their cultural tastes is rising as a result of these communities' bringing their culinary traditions with them. Because people are looking for familiar cuisines from their home countries, the market for ethnic snacks is robust due to the population's diversity. The demand for ethnic snacks is growing not just among expats but also among Emiratis and visitors who are increasingly experimenting with different and genuine cuisines.
Growth in Demand for Convenience Foods
Due to hectic work schedules and a fast-paced lifestyle, UAE consumers are looking for quick-to-eat snacks that are nonetheless tasty and filling. This need for quick, on-the-go meals is met by ethnic delicacies like baklava, falafel, and samosas. These snacks appeal to both local and expatriate populations since they are not only quick to eat but also have cultural value. The market for ethnic snacks is expanding due to the rising popularity of ready-to-eat snacks and consumer demand for real ethnic flavors.
Intense Competition from International and Local Brands
The UAE market is quite competitive, offering a wide range of snack options from regional producers, global brands, and emerging artisanal producers. Several multinational snack companies control a large portion of the shelf space, with goods that are widely distributed, heavily promoted, and have strong brand recognition. Additionally, well-known companies regularly introduce "ethnic-inspired" flavors, directly competing with authentic ethnic snack options and possibly decreasing market share for niche firms.
High Import Dependency and Supply Chain Challenges
To serve the needs of the expatriate community, a sizable amount of the UAE's ethnic snacks is imported from nations including the Philippines, India, and Lebanon. The industrial industry is vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, such as trade bans, shipping delays, and increased transportation costs, due to its reliance on imports. Due to their higher cost compared to locally made alternatives, these issues may limit the availability & commercial expansion of ethnic snacks.
Increasing Demand for Healthier Ethnic Snack Options
Customers in the UAE are looking for healthier substitutes for traditional ethnic snacks as health and wellness become more important. Manufacturers can take advantage of this trend by coming up with baked, low-fat, gluten-free, or organic versions of well-liked ethnic snacks like falafel, pakoras, and samosas. To further appeal to health-conscious consumers, they can use superfoods or substitute components like avocado oil, lentil flour, or quinoa. By promoting the wellness movement, brands may expand their consumer base while preserving the authenticity & cultural attractiveness of their products.
By Product Type, The UAE Ethnic Snacks market is segmented into Baklawa, Falafel, Potato Chips. The market for ethnic snacks in the United Arab Emirates is now dominated by Baklawa. Its broad availability in neighborhood bakeries and supermarkets, significant cultural associations, and high demand during festivals and festivities are the reasons for this. Additionally, both locals and visitors looking for real Middle Eastern cuisine find it appealing. The market's fastest-growing section is falafel. Due to its high protein content and suitability for vegetarians, falafel's popularity is ascribed to the growing trend toward plant-based & vegan diets. Additionally, the popularity of falafel among health-conscious consumers & expats is growing due to the availability of frozen and ready-to-cook falafel products.
By Nature, The UAE Ethnic Snacks market is segmented into Organic, Conventional. The UAE market is currently dominated by traditional ethnic snacks. Their well-established production, more affordable prices, and increased availability are the main causes of this. Due to their mass manufacturing techniques and cultural significance, classic foods like falafel, hummus, and baklawa are consumed in large quantities in the United Arab Emirates. The ethnic snack category with the quickest rate of growth is organic. Particularly among health-conscious consumers & foreigners looking for healthier options, organic snacks are growing in popularity. The expansion of this market is also being fueled by the growing availability of organic ingredients & certification.
UAE Ethnic Snacks Overview by Region
Dubai is the market leader in the United Arab Emirates for ethnic snacks. The largest and most populated city in the nation, Dubai, serves as the center of its culture and business. Numerous foreigners from South Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East make up a large portion of its diverse population, which significantly raises demand for ethnic snacks. Snacks and different ethnic food items are in high demand due in part to the city's thriving tourism economy.
In the UAE's ethnic snack market, Abu Dhabi is the area with the quickest rate of growth. Because Abu Dhabi is the capital, both the local population and tourists are growing, which is driving up demand for ethnic snacks. Furthermore, the market for organic ethnic snacks is expanding in Abu Dhabi due to the growing demand for organic and health-conscious food items.
UAE Ethnic Snacks market competitive landscape
Leading companies such as Aghati for Sweets & Ice Cream Co. Ltd., ALDURRA International Food Products Company Ltd., Gulf Marketing Group LLC, Hunter Foods LLC, Crunchy Food FZE, CRISP SNACK FOOD MANUFACTURING LLC, Austin Nutri Food Industries LLC, MUNCHBOX.AE, SALEM SHARAWI SWEETS L.L.C., FOODMatch Inc., Al Kabeer Group, Lays (PepsiCo), Al Islami Foods, Americana Group, and Lulu Group International. In order to satisfy the varied tastes and preferences of the multicultural populace, the UAE's ethnic snacks sector is characterized by a number of significant players. Major participants in the ethnic snack market should benefit from the rising customer demand for quick, genuine, and health-conscious options. In order to adjust to shifting consumer needs, businesses are likely to focus on product innovation, offering new flavors and healthier variants.
Scope of UAE Ethnic Snacks report
UAE Ethnic Snacks report segmentation
ATTRIBUTE |
DETAILS |
By Product Type |
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By Nature |
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By Flavor |
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By Dietary Preference |
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By Convenience |
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By Pack Size |
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By End-user |
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Customization Scope |
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Pricing |
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Table of Contents
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