Summary

The Saudi cigarette market has undergone major changes throughout the years, influenced by factors such as economic development, shifting customer preferences, and government restrictions. Cigarettes were introduced to Saudi Arabia in the mid-twentieth century and quickly gained appeal among both expatriate and native populations. Initially, the market was limited, but as the Kingdom saw rapid economic expansion and modernization, cigarette use increased significantly. Saudi Arabia is a conservative Islamic kingdom, and Islamic law (Sharia) is important to the culture and legal framework of the country. Islamic values that promote excellent health and well-being often discourage smoking. As a result, smoking carries a cultural stigma in Saudi Arabia, which has altered the public view of tobacco usage. Saudi Arabia has a young population, with a sizable proportion of the population under the age of 30. The government prioritizes youth smoking prevention measures in order to discourage young people from starting to smoke. This emphasis on kids is reflected in the country's severe regulations on cigarette sales to minors. Despite general smoking rates declining, there is a subset of the population that favours premium and luxury cigarette brands. This demand has been fuelled by economic prosperity and a need for status symbols. As a result, high-end brands remain on the market, catering to individuals looking for a more private smoking experience. Alternative tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco devices, have grown in popularity in Saudi Arabia. These products, which are viewed by some as less dangerous alternatives to regular cigarettes, have acquired market traction.

According to the research report "Saudi Arabia Cigarette Market Overview, 2028," published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Cigarette market is predicted to reach market size of more than USD 3 Billion by 2028. Saudi Arabia has a long heritage of hospitality, and providing people with smoke has long been a custom. While this tradition is still practiced to some degree, it is changing due to changing attitudes regarding smoking, particularly in urban areas. Gender segregation is practiced in many facets of public life in Saudi Arabia, including smoking. In public spaces, smoking facilities are frequently divided, with distinct zones for men and women. This distinct smoking style reflects the country's cultural customs. Saudi Arabia has its own native tobacco brands that are regionally distinct and cater to various preferences. These regional businesses have a loyal following and add to the market's diversity. Saudi Arabia is steadily liberalizing its tourism policies, with aspirations to lure millions of overseas visitors in the coming years. Tourists, who have diverse smoking habits and tastes, can have an impact on the tobacco market. Saudi Arabia has a tradition of employing traditional smoking methods such as hookah (shisha) and dokha in addition to standard cigarettes. These strategies have a distinct cultural value and are still commonly used, particularly in social settings. The Saudi government has put in place extensive tobacco control measures, such as smoking cessation clinics, public awareness campaigns, and support services for people who want to quit smoking. These initiatives demonstrate a commitment to lowering smoking rates and boosting public health.

Based on type market is divided into light, medium and others. Light type cigarette is widely consumed in Saudi Arabia and is expected to lead the market as well. Many smokers assume that smoking light cigarettes is less dangerous than smoking normal cigarettes. They are frequently advertised as such, with claims of decreased tar and nicotine content. This notion of lower health risks appeals to smokers who want to keep smoking but are apprehensive about the potential health implications. The Saudi government has imposed stringent controls on cigarette packaging, including graphic health warnings depicting the perils of smoking. Light cigarettes are frequently seen as a means to reduce these health hazards while still smoking. Light cigarettes may be chosen by smokers as a compromise between their habit and their health concerns. As more people choose light cigarettes, tobacco companies are extending their offerings in this category to meet market demand. The accessibility of a wide range of light cigarette brands and flavors further drives consumption. Smoking is deeply ingrained in Saudi Arabian culture, with various social rituals and traditions associated with it. Light cigarettes align with these cultural practices and allow individuals to participate in social smoking while potentially reducing harm.

Based on distribution channel market include speciality store, hypermarket/ supermarket, convenience stores, online and others. In recent years, Saudi Arabia has seen substantial growth in e-commerce and online purchasing. Online platforms are widely used by consumers to make purchases, including cigarettes. The convenience of internet shopping, access to a large selection of products, and the opportunity to compare prices and brands are driving this trend. Online shopping provides a level of privacy and convenience that traditional brick-and-mortar establishments do not. Smokers who are stigmatized or uncomfortable purchasing cigarettes in person can order them secretly online. Online retailers are often available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, giving customers the freedom to buy cigarettes whenever it is convenient for them. This availability accommodates a variety of schedules and lifestyles. Some cigarette companies and manufacturers have gone direct-to-consumer, offering their products just online. This strategy allows them to bypass traditional distribution channels and reach consumers directly. The prevalence of smartphones and mobile apps has made it even easier for consumers to order cigarettes online. Many online retailers have user-friendly mobile apps that simplify the purchasing process.

Considered in this report:
• Geography: Saudi Arabia
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report:
• Saudi Arabia Cigarette market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type:
• Light
• Medium
• Others

By Distribution Channel:
• Speciality Store
• Hypermarket/supermarket
• Convenience Stores
• Online
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, and annual reports of companies, analyzing the government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers into regional aspects, tier aspects, age groups, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience:
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to the Cigarette industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.

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