GCC Ice Cream Market Overview
Market Size in 2024: USD 1.8 Million
Market Size in 2033: USD 3.3 Million
Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 6.1%
According to IMARC Group's latest research publication, "GCC Ice Cream Market Report by Flavor (Chocolate, Fruit, Vanilla, and Others), Category (Impulse Ice Cream, Take-Home Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream), Product (Cup, Stick, Cone, Brick, Tub, and Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Ice Cream Parlours, Online Stores, and Others), and Country 2025-2033", the GCC ice cream market size reached USD 1.8 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 3.3 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 6.1% during 2025-2033.
Growth Factors in the GCC Ice Cream Market
- Hot Climate and Year-Round Demand
The GCC region's scorching desert climate, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, creates a natural demand for refreshing treats like ice cream. Unlike many markets where ice cream is a seasonal indulgence, the consistently warm weather in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE ensures year-round consumption. For instance, in Dubai, ice cream parlors and convenience stores see steady foot traffic even in winter months due to mild temperatures. This climatic advantage drives both locals and tourists to seek cooling desserts, boosting sales across retail and foodservice channels. The cultural habit of enjoying ice cream as a social activity further amplifies this demand, making it a staple in the region’s food culture.
- Rising Disposable Incomes and Premiumization
Increasing disposable incomes across the GCC, particularly in urban centers like Riyadh and Doha, have fueled consumer spending on indulgent food products. Wealthier consumers are gravitating toward premium and artisanal ice creams, seeking high-quality ingredients and unique flavors. For example, brands like Baskin-Robbins have introduced region-specific flavors like date and saffron to cater to local tastes, enhancing their appeal. This shift toward premiumization is supported by the growing middle class and expatriate population, who view ice cream as an affordable luxury. The expansion of high-end retail outlets and cafes offering gourmet ice cream further drives this trend, contributing significantly to market growth.
- Growth of Tourism and Retail Expansion
The GCC’s transformation into a global tourism hub, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, has significantly boosted the ice cream market. Tourists visiting attractions like Dubai’s Burj Khalifa or Saudi Arabia’s Al Rajhi Grand Mosque often indulge in ice cream as a refreshing treat. The proliferation of retail channels, including supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, has made ice cream widely accessible. For instance, Saudia Dairy and Foodstuff Company (Sadafco) opened a new ice cream factory in Jeddah in 2022, enhancing local production and distribution. This retail expansion, coupled with tourism-driven demand, ensures ice cream remains a convenient and popular choice for diverse consumers.
Key Trends in the GCC Ice Cream Market
- Demand for Health-Conscious and Lactose-Free Options
Health awareness is reshaping the GCC ice cream market, with consumers increasingly seeking low-fat, sugar-free, and lactose-free options. The region’s high prevalence of lactose intolerance, particularly among Arab populations, has driven demand for non-dairy alternatives made from almond or coconut milk. For example, in 2022, Al Ain launched camel milk-based ice cream in the UAE, offering flavors like cardamom and chocolate to appeal to health-conscious consumers. This trend aligns with the global rise in veganism and dietary preferences, prompting manufacturers to reformulate products with natural ingredients and clean labels, catering to both indulgence and wellness.
- Popularity of Artisanal and Exotic Flavors
The GCC ice cream market is witnessing a surge in artisanal and gourmet offerings, as consumers crave unique and culturally resonant flavors. Brands are innovating with region-specific ingredients like pistachio, rosewater, and za’atar, blending tradition with modernity. For instance, Mars Incorporated expanded its single-serve ice cream range in Dubai with Snickers Dark Chocolate and Twix Triple Chocolate bars, appealing to younger demographics seeking novel experiences. This trend is particularly strong in urban areas like Qatar and Bahrain, where affluent consumers and expatriates embrace small-batch, high-quality ice creams, driving competition among local and international brands.
- E-Commerce and Digital Marketing Growth
The rise of e-commerce and digital platforms is transforming how ice cream is marketed and sold in the GCC. Governments in Dubai and Bahrain are promoting e-commerce through strategies like the National E-commerce Strategy, encouraging online sales of food products. Brands are leveraging social media to engage younger audiences with vibrant campaigns and limited-edition launches. For example, Unilever’s Magnum brand uses Instagram to promote seasonal flavors, driving impulse purchases through online delivery platforms. This digital shift enhances accessibility, especially in Tier 1 cities, and allows manufacturers to reach diverse consumers, boosting market penetration and brand loyalty.
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GCC Ice Cream Industry Segmentation:
The report has segmented the market into the following categories:
Breakup by Flavor:
- Chocolate
- Fruit
- Vanilla
- Others
Breakup by Category:
- Impulse Ice Cream
- Take-Home Ice Cream
- Artisanal Ice Cream
Breakup by Product:
- Cup
- Stick
- Cone
- Brick
- Tub
- Others
Breakup by Distribution Channel:
- Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
- Convenience Stores
- Ice Cream Parlours
- Online Stores
- Others
Breakup by Country:
- Saudi Arabia
- UAE
- Qatar
- Bahrain
- Kuwait
- Oman
Competitive Landscape:
The competitive landscape of the industry has also been examined, along with the profiles of the key players.
Future Outlook
The GCC ice cream market is poised for robust growth, driven by evolving consumer preferences and strategic industry advancements. As health-conscious trends gain traction, manufacturers will likely invest in innovative, plant-based, and low-calorie products to cater to diverse dietary needs. The region’s focus on economic diversification, through initiatives like Saudi Arabia’s ‘Made in Saudi’ program, will bolster local production and reduce import dependency, fostering market resilience. Additionally, the continued rise of tourism and e-commerce platforms will enhance product accessibility, particularly in the UAE and Qatar. With brands embracing sustainability through eco-friendly packaging and ethically sourced ingredients, the market is set to thrive, balancing indulgence with modern consumer values.
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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