Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market Overview
Market Size in 2024 : USD 787 Million
Market Size in 2033: USD 1,061.8 Million
Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 3%
According to IMARC Group's latest research publication,"Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market Report by Flavor (Vanilla, Chocolate, Fruit, and Others), Category (Impulse Ice Cream, Take-Home Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream), Product (Cup, Stick, Cone, Brick, Tub, and Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Ice Cream Parlors, Online Stores, and Others), and Region 2025-2033", Saudi Arabia ice cream market size reached USD 787 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,061.8 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3% during 2025-2033.
Growth Factors in the Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market
- Hot and Humid Climate Driving Demand
Saudi Arabia’s scorching desert climate, with temperatures often exceeding 35°C, fuels a year-round craving for ice cream as a refreshing treat. This climatic factor compels both residents and visitors to seek cooling desserts, making ice cream a staple in daily life. For instance, during summer months, ice cream parlors and vendors see a surge in sales as families and tourists flock to outlets for relief from the heat. Brands like Baskin-Robbins capitalize on this by offering a wide range of flavors in their 150+ outlets across the country, ensuring accessibility in urban hubs like Riyadh and Jeddah.
- Rising Disposable Income and Premiumization
The growing disposable income among Saudi consumers, driven by economic diversification under Vision 2030, has boosted demand for premium ice cream products. Consumers are increasingly willing to spend on indulgent, high-quality desserts. For example, Unilever has introduced low-fat and dairy-free options to cater to affluent, health-conscious customers, enhancing their market share. This shift towards premium products is evident in the popularity of brands like Häagen-Dazs, which offer gourmet flavors in upscale retail settings, appealing to a demographic seeking luxury and unique taste experiences.
- Expansion of Hospitality and Tourism Sectors
The rapid growth of Saudi Arabia’s hospitality sector, spurred by the National Tourism Strategy aiming to attract 100 million tourists by 2030, significantly drives ice cream consumption. Hotels, resorts, and restaurants frequently feature ice cream on their menus, enhancing accessibility. For instance, cultural events and festivals, such as those in Jeddah and Makkah, often include ice cream vendors, boosting sales. Sawani, a local brand launched by the Public Investment Fund, expanded its retail presence in 2024 with new stores in these cities, aligning with Vision 2030’s push for local production and tourism.
Key Trends in the Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market
- Surge in Demand for Health-Conscious Options
Health-conscious consumers are reshaping the Saudi ice cream market, with a growing preference for low-fat, low-sugar, and dairy-free alternatives. This trend is driven by increasing awareness of nutrition and wellness, particularly among younger demographics. For example, Almarai, a leading dairy company, launched a new range of ice creams in 2024, including low-sugar and vegan options made with almond and coconut milk, catering to lactose-intolerant and health-focused consumers. This shift reflects broader lifestyle changes, as more Saudis adopt healthier eating habits while still indulging in their favorite frozen treats.
- Popularity of Unique and Exotic Flavors
The Saudi market is witnessing a surge in demand for innovative and culturally resonant flavors, such as mango, pistachio, and saffron. Mango-flavored ice cream, in particular, holds cultural significance and is a top choice due to its refreshing taste. Domestic manufacturers, like Saudi Ice Cream Factory, leverage locally grown mangoes, supported by government incentives for agriculture, to create authentic flavors. Additionally, nitrogen ice cream, known for its creamy texture and theatrical preparation, has gained traction in urban areas, appealing to younger consumers seeking novel dessert experiences.
- Growth of E-Commerce and Delivery Platforms
The rise of e-commerce and food delivery apps has transformed how Saudis access ice cream, making it more convenient to satisfy cravings. Platforms like Talabat and HungerStation have partnered with brands such as Saudia Dairy & Foodstuff Co. (SADAFCO) to offer quick delivery of single-serve and take-home ice cream products. This trend caters to the modern, fast-paced lifestyle of urban consumers. For instance, SADAFCO’s 2022 Jeddah factory expansion included a focus on producing portable ice cream bars and minilavender, and rosewater, are gaining traction, reflecting the region’s cultural diversity and culinary preferences.
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Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Industry Segmentation:
The report has segmented the market into the following categories:
Flavor Insights:
- Vanilla
- Chocolate
- Fruit
- Others
Category Insights:
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
- Artisanal Ice Cream
Product Insights:
- Cup
- Stick
- Cone
- Brick
- Tub
- Others
Distribution Channel Insights:
- Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Ice Cream Parlors
- Online Stores
- Others
Regional Insights:
- Northern and Central Region
- Western Region
- Eastern Region
- Southern Region
Competitive Landscape:
The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Competitive analysis such as market structure, key player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided.
Future Outlook
The Saudi Arabia ice cream market is poised for robust growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences and strategic economic initiatives. As Vision 2030 continues to fuel tourism and hospitality, ice cream will remain a popular choice at cultural events and new retail outlets, with brands like Sawani expanding to meet demand. The focus on health-conscious and plant-based options will grow, with companies like Almarai and Unilever innovating to offer vegan and low-sugar products. Additionally, advancements in cold chain logistics and e-commerce will enhance accessibility, ensuring ice cream remains a year-round staple. With a young, dynamic population and rising tourism, the market will see sustained demand for premium and unique flavors through 2030.
Research Methodology:
The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.
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