Summary

Dairy consumption has been a staple part of many cultures in the Middle East and Africa, and yogurt, as a fermented dairy product, has been integral to local diets for centuries. In many parts of the region, yogurt is more than just a food item it's a cultural symbol, often consumed daily and used in a variety of dishes. For instance, in countries like Iran and Egypt, yogurt has been an essential part of both traditional and modern cuisines, from simple breakfast options to being used in savory stews and as an accompaniment to grilled meats. Early records indicate that yogurt-like products were consumed by the nomadic tribes of Central Asia and later spread westward, becoming a staple food item throughout the Middle East. Over the centuries, yogurt became embedded in the dietary practices of many MEA countries, especially as the benefits of probiotics in yogurt became more widely recognized. This historical connection to yogurt laid a foundation for the modern yogurt market in the region. The demand for yogurt in the region is not just driven by the local population but also by growing tourism, which has introduced international yogurt brands and products to the region. Brands from Europe and North America have increasingly entered the market, creating both competition and collaboration with local manufacturers. In countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia, multinational yogurt brands are becoming increasingly popular, while homegrown brands also continue to thrive, leveraging local flavors and traditional yogurt-making techniques. While yogurt's market share in Africa is still developing, it is gradually expanding in response to urbanization, increasing disposable incomes, and evolving dietary habits. Countries like South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria are seeing rising yogurt consumption, with local dairy producers exploring opportunities to cater to both traditional and modern consumer demands.

According to the research report, "Middle East and Africa Yogurt Market Overview, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the Middle East and Africa Yogurt market is anticipated to add to more than USD 1.59 Billion by 2025–30. Urbanization has also played a pivotal role in the market's growth. As cities across the Middle East and Africa become more densely populated and modernized, there has been a noticeable shift in lifestyles. Consumers in urban areas are increasingly opting for convenient, ready-to-eat, and portable food items, including yogurt. Single-serve yogurt cups and pouches, especially those with added flavorings or toppings, have gained popularity due to their convenience and nutritional value. The growing working population, with busy schedules, prefers quick and nutritious snack options, making yogurt an ideal choice. Moreover, innovations in yogurt products have further propelled market growth. In response to evolving tastes, companies have introduced various product variants such as Greek yogurt, low-fat options, flavored yogurts, and even dairy-free alternatives to appeal to diverse consumer preferences. For instance, yogurt with exotic flavors, such as mango, coconut, or pomegranate, has become increasingly popular in the Middle East. Additionally, the introduction of yogurt products fortified with additional nutrients like fiber or vitamin D has attracted health-conscious consumers looking to boost their nutrition. Multinational dairy brands have made significant inroads into the market, especially in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar. These international brands have adapted to local tastes, offering products that suit the region's dietary preferences. Meanwhile, local manufacturers continue to thrive by leveraging traditional yogurt-making methods and incorporating regional flavors. This competitive environment has spurred innovation and enhanced product quality across the board.


Market Drivers

• Growing Health Consciousness: One of the primary drivers of the yogurt market in the Middle East and Africa is the increasing health awareness among consumers. Over the past decade, there has been a notable shift towards healthier eating habits across the region. Consumers are increasingly becoming aware of the nutritional benefits of yogurt, particularly in terms of digestive health, immunity, and protein content. The rise in lifestyle-related diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease has further boosted the demand for healthier food options.
• Urbanization and Changing Lifestyles: Urbanization is another critical driver influencing the yogurt market in the Middle East and Africa. As the region experiences rapid urban growth, there is an increase in the number of people living in cities where lifestyles are changing. Urban residents, especially younger populations, are increasingly seeking convenience and time-saving products. With busy schedules and a growing demand for on-the-go food options, yogurt has become a popular choice due to its portability, versatility, and nutritional value. Additionally, the rise in disposable income among urban dwellers has created a larger market for premium yogurt products, including flavored, organic, and specialized variants.

Market Challenges

• Economic and Political Instability: One of the significant challenges facing the yogurt industry in the Middle East and Africa is the region's ongoing economic and political instability. Countries in the MEA region often face fluctuations in their economic conditions due to political turmoil, currency devaluations, and changes in government policies. These factors can lead to unpredictable market conditions, affecting consumer purchasing power, production costs, and the overall supply chain. For example, in countries with high inflation rates or political unrest, the cost of raw materials (like milk) and distribution can rise sharply, impacting the affordability and availability of yogurt products.
• Supply Chain and Raw Material Constraints: The MEA region faces significant challenges in sourcing high-quality raw materials for yogurt production, especially dairy. While some countries in the region are major dairy producers, others depend heavily on imports to meet the demand for milk and other ingredients. Fluctuations in the supply and price of milk, often due to droughts, changing agricultural policies, and import restrictions, can create challenges for yogurt producers. Furthermore, limited infrastructure in certain parts of the region, especially in rural areas, may hinder the distribution and cold chain logistics necessary for preserving yogurt's quality.

Market Trends

• Rise of Plant-Based and Dairy-Free Alternatives: The demand for plant-based and dairy-free yogurt alternatives is a rapidly growing trend in the Middle East and Africa. With an increasing number of consumers adopting vegan, lactose-free, and dairy-free diets due to health reasons, ethical concerns, or cultural preferences, yogurt manufacturers are responding by diversifying their product offerings. These alternatives are made from non-dairy bases such as almonds, soy, coconut, or oats and cater to the needs of consumers who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or allergic to dairy. This trend is especially evident in urban centers where the younger, health-conscious population is more likely to experiment with alternative food options.
• Flavors and Local Adaptation: Another key trend in the MEA yogurt market is the increasing focus on flavor innovation and local adaptation. As yogurt consumption continues to rise, there is a growing interest in offering unique and region-specific flavors that appeal to local tastes. For example, yogurt infused with flavors such as rose, saffron, pomegranate, and fig, or products with a blend of traditional Middle Eastern spices, are gaining popularity. In addition, some yogurt producers are introducing yogurt products with added ingredients like honey, dates, and nuts to cater to regional culinary preferences. This trend reflects the region’s rich food culture, and yogurt manufacturers are responding by creating products that resonate with local tastes and dietary habits.


Greek yogurt is gaining popularity in the MEA (Middle East and Africa) yogurt industry due to increasing health-conscious consumer behavior, rising demand for high-protein foods, and the growing awareness of its numerous health benefits.

The growing popularity of Greek yogurt in the MEA yogurt industry can be attributed to several key factors, including a shift towards healthier eating habits, the rising awareness of its nutritional value, and a significant change in consumer preferences. In recent years, consumers in the region have become more health-conscious and are seeking food products that provide greater nutritional benefits. Greek yogurt, with its higher protein content compared to traditional yogurt, has captured the attention of health-minded individuals looking to increase their protein intake, particularly among those who engage in fitness and weight management practices. The emphasis on protein-rich diets is a global trend that has found strong resonance in the MEA region as consumers increasingly recognize the importance of protein for muscle building, satiety, and overall well-being. Additionally, Greek yogurt’s creamy texture, tangy flavor, and versatility in a variety of dishes have made it an appealing option for consumers seeking variety and indulgence in their diets without compromising health benefits. Greek yogurt is often marketed as a product rich in probiotics, which promote gut health and enhance digestion, making it particularly appealing in the context of growing awareness around the importance of gut microbiome health. As digestive health becomes a focal point of consumer interest, Greek yogurt’s reputation as a product that supports digestion and overall immunity helps strengthen its appeal. Furthermore, in many MEA countries, yogurt is already a staple part of traditional diets, but Greek yogurt is being embraced for its modern twist on familiar flavors, adding a contemporary and healthier alternative to the existing yogurt varieties available in the market. The increasing availability of Greek yogurt in various forms, including low-fat, fat-free, and flavored variants, has also contributed to its growth in the MEA market.

The growing demand for convenient and on-the-go consumption options in the MEA yogurt industry is driving the rise of yogurt in eatable forms such as yogurt cups, smoothies, and ready-to-eat pouches.

The increasing popularity of eatable yogurt forms in the MEA yogurt industry can be attributed to the rapid shift in consumer lifestyles, which prioritize convenience, portability, and quick meal solutions. As urbanization continues to accelerate across the Middle East and Africa, busy consumers are seeking food products that can seamlessly fit into their hectic schedules without compromising on nutrition. Eatable yogurt forms, such as pre-packaged yogurt cups, smoothies, and ready-to-eat pouches, have emerged as ideal solutions to meet the needs of individuals who are constantly on the move, whether it’s for work, school, or travel. These ready-to-eat formats provide a practical, mess-free, and easy-to-consume option, which appeals to both adults and children looking for convenient snack or meal alternatives. The demand for on-the-go food products has grown significantly in the MEA region, particularly in cities with fast-paced lifestyles. With busy working professionals, parents, and students increasingly searching for quick yet healthy food choices, yogurt in eatable forms is seen as a perfect fit for the growing trend of meal replacements and snacks that can be eaten anywhere. Moreover, these products cater to the rising consumer desire for portion-controlled, single-serve packaging, which helps in managing food waste and controlling calorie intake. The eatable form also offers enhanced hygiene and convenience, as the products are individually packaged, making them ideal for consumption without the need for utensils or refrigeration. Additionally, the rise of health-conscious consumers in the MEA region has led to a greater focus on nutritional products that offer functional benefits. Eatable yogurt products often come fortified with vitamins, probiotics, or other health-boosting ingredients that cater to the increasing demand for functional foods that support digestive health, immunity, and overall wellness.

Flavored yogurt is the fastest-growing segment in the MEA yogurt industry due to the region's increasing preference for taste diversity, indulgence, and the growing demand for exciting, on-the-go snack options.

Flavored yogurt is rapidly gaining popularity in the MEA yogurt market because of shifting consumer preferences toward more diverse, indulgent, and innovative food choices. As the region's population becomes more exposed to global food trends, there is a growing demand for products that offer exciting flavor combinations and new sensory experiences. Traditional, plain yogurt varieties, which have long been a staple in the region, are being increasingly replaced by flavored versions that cater to evolving taste profiles. This trend is driven by younger consumers, urban dwellers, and health-conscious individuals who are looking for yogurt products that offer a mix of both indulgence and convenience, making flavored yogurt a perfect fit. The increasing availability of a wide range of flavors, including exotic and locally inspired options, is further fueling the growth of flavored yogurt in the MEA market. Flavors like vanilla, strawberry, mango, and mixed berry, as well as region-specific varieties such as date, rose, and pomegranate, are becoming increasingly popular. These flavors offer a unique fusion of traditional tastes and modern innovation, appealing to a broad spectrum of consumers who are looking for familiar yet fresh options. This wide variety allows for customization, enabling manufacturers to target different age groups, cultural preferences, and taste profiles within the diverse MEA region. Additionally, the availability of seasonal flavors, limited-edition offerings, or even premium variations adds an element of novelty that attracts both new and loyal consumers. Furthermore, flavored yogurt’s appeal goes beyond just taste; it often combines healthy attributes with the indulgence factor. Many flavored yogurt products in the MEA market are fortified with probiotics, low-fat options, or added vitamins, making them a nutritious snack or dessert alternative. This blend of taste and health benefits addresses the growing interest in functional foods, where consumers want products that offer more than just basic nutrition.

Online retail is the fastest-growing channel in the MEA yogurt industry due to the increasing reliance on e-commerce for convenience, accessibility, and the desire for a broader selection of yogurt products.

The growth of online retail in the MEA yogurt industry is largely driven by the region's increasing digitalization, evolving consumer shopping behaviors, and the growing demand for convenience. As more consumers in the Middle East and Africa embrace e-commerce, online grocery shopping has become a preferred option, especially in urban areas where busy lifestyles make traditional brick-and-mortar shopping less appealing. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated this trend, as more consumers shifted to online platforms to meet their grocery needs, including yogurt products. With the convenience of shopping from home, avoiding long queues, and having products delivered directly to their doorsteps, online retail has gained significant traction among MEA consumers. With a variety of flavors, brands, and specialized yogurt types such as Greek, plant-based, or functional yogurt, e-commerce platforms allow customers to explore more options, including premium or niche yogurt varieties that may be difficult to find in traditional retail outlets. In addition, online retail offers the convenience of doorstep delivery, which is a significant advantage for consumers seeking time-saving options. Busy professionals, parents, and health-conscious individuals in the MEA region can now order yogurt products online and have them delivered at their convenience, without the need to make multiple trips to physical stores. This ease of shopping is particularly important in cities where traffic congestion, high temperatures, and limited time can make in-store shopping a hassle. Furthermore, online retailers often provide subscription services, offering consumers regular deliveries of their favorite yogurt products, further enhancing convenience.


Saudi Arabia is leading the MEA yogurt industry due to its strong dairy consumption culture, rapid urbanization, and increasing demand for health-conscious and convenient food options.

Saudi Arabia’s dominance in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) yogurt industry can be attributed to a mix of cultural factors, demographic shifts, and evolving consumer preferences. As a country with a long-standing tradition of dairy consumption, yogurt has been a staple in Saudi households for generations, deeply embedded in the local diet. This cultural preference for dairy products has provided a solid foundation for the yogurt industry, enabling brands to thrive and meet the needs of the Saudi population. In recent years, rapid urbanization has further boosted yogurt consumption. As more Saudis move to cities and embrace faster-paced lifestyles, there is an increasing demand for convenient, ready-to-eat, and nutritious food options. Yogurt, with its ease of consumption and versatility as a snack or meal replacement, has naturally become a popular choice among urban dwellers looking for a quick and healthy option to fit their busy schedules. Furthermore, Saudi Arabia is experiencing a growing trend toward health-conscious eating. As awareness about the benefits of probiotics, gut health, and nutrition increases, consumers are increasingly turning to yogurt for its digestive health benefits, protein content, and overall nutritional value. This trend has been particularly evident in the rising popularity of functional yogurts, such as those enriched with probiotics, high protein, and low sugar formulations, to cater to the health-focused demands of the Saudi market. Additionally, Saudi Arabia's young population, with a significant proportion of individuals under the age of 30, plays a crucial role in driving yogurt consumption. Younger consumers are more inclined to embrace global food trends, including the demand for plant-based and lactose-free alternatives, prompting yogurt brands to introduce dairy-free variants and cater to a wider range of dietary needs.


Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Yogurt 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 Product Type
• Traditional Yogurt
• Greek Yogurt
• Plant-Based Yogurt
• Others (Frozen yogurt, Set yogurt,High Protein, Vegan, probiotic-rich specialty yogurts)

By Flavor
• Flavored
• Non Flavored

By Distribution Channel
• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retail
• Others (vending machines, dairy farms, direct-to-consumer sales)

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 listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report 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 conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture 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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Table of Contents

Table of Contents

1. Executive Summary
2. Market Dynamics
2.1. Market Drivers & Opportunities
2.2. Market Restraints & Challenges
2.3. Market Trends
2.3.1. XXXX
2.3.2. XXXX
2.3.3. XXXX
2.3.4. XXXX
2.3.5. XXXX
2.4. Supply chain Analysis
2.5. Policy & Regulatory Framework
2.6. Industry Experts Views
3. Research Methodology
3.1. Secondary Research
3.2. Primary Data Collection
3.3. Market Formation & Validation
3.4. Report Writing, Quality Check & Delivery
4. Market Structure
4.1. Market Considerate
4.2. Assumptions
4.3. Limitations
4.4. Abbreviations
4.5. Sources
4.6. Definitions
5. Economic /Demographic Snapshot
6. Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Outlook
6.1. Market Size By Value
6.2. Market Share By Country
6.3. Market Size and Forecast, By Product Type
6.4. Market Size and Forecast, By Form
6.5. Market Size and Forecast, By Flavor
6.6. Market Size and Forecast, By Distribution Channel
6.7. United Arab Emirates (UAE) Yogurt Market Outlook
6.7.1. Market Size by Value
6.7.2. Market Size and Forecast By Product Type
6.7.3. Market Size and Forecast By Flavor
6.7.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
6.8. Saudi Arabia Yogurt Market Outlook
6.8.1. Market Size by Value
6.8.2. Market Size and Forecast By Product Type
6.8.3. Market Size and Forecast By Flavor
6.8.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
6.9. South Africa Yogurt Market Outlook
6.9.1. Market Size by Value
6.9.2. Market Size and Forecast By Product Type
6.9.3. Market Size and Forecast By Flavor
6.9.4. Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel
7. Competitive Landscape
7.1. Competitive Dashboard
7.2. Business Strategies Adopted by Key Players
7.3. Key Players Market Positioning Matrix
7.4. Porter's Five Forces
7.5. Company Profile
7.5.1. Danone S.A.
7.5.1.1. Company Snapshot
7.5.1.2. Company Overview
7.5.1.3. Financial Highlights
7.5.1.4. Geographic Insights
7.5.1.5. Business Segment & Performance
7.5.1.6. Product Portfolio
7.5.1.7. Key Executives
7.5.1.8. Strategic Moves & Developments
7.5.2. Nestlé S.A.
7.5.3. Royal FrieslandCampina N.V.
7.5.4. Almarai Company
8. Strategic Recommendations
9. Annexure
9.1. FAQ`s
9.2. Notes
9.3. Related Reports
10. Disclaimer


List of Figures

Figure 1: Global Yogurt Market Size (USD Billion) By Region, 2024 & 2030
Figure 2: Market attractiveness Index, By Region 2030
Figure 3: Market attractiveness Index, By Segment 2030
Figure 4: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 5: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Share By Country (2024)
Figure 6: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Yogurt Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 7: Saudi Arabia Yogurt Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 8: South Africa Yogurt Market Size By Value (2019, 2024 & 2030F) (in USD Billion)
Figure 9: Porter's Five Forces of Global Yogurt Market


List of Tables

Table 1: Global Yogurt Market Snapshot, By Segmentation (2024 & 2030) (in USD Billion)
Table 2: Influencing Factors for Yogurt Market, 2024
Table 3: Top 10 Counties Economic Snapshot 2022
Table 4: Economic Snapshot of Other Prominent Countries 2022
Table 5: Average Exchange Rates for Converting Foreign Currencies into U.S. Dollars
Table 6: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast, By Product Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 7: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast, By Form (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 8: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast, By Flavor (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 9: Middle East & Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast, By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 10: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Product Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 11: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Flavor (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 12: United Arab Emirates (UAE) Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 13: Saudi Arabia Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Product Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 14: Saudi Arabia Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Flavor (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 15: Saudi Arabia Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 16: South Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Product Type (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 17: South Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Flavor (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 18: South Africa Yogurt Market Size and Forecast By Distribution Channel (2019 to 2030F) (In USD Billion)
Table 19: Competitive Dashboard of top 5 players, 2024