Middle East & Africa Culinary Tourism Market Outlook, 2029

Centuries of history, business, and cultural interchange have moulded the various culinary traditions of the Middle East and Africa. There are many different cuisines to try, ranging from the rich flavours of Lebanese cuisine to the heady spices of Morocco. The Middle East and Africa have seen a steady increase in international tourist arrivals in recent years, driven by factors such as improved infrastructure, increased air connectivity, and government initiatives to promote tourism. As more travellers visit the region, there is a growing demand for unique and authentic experiences, including culinary tourism.

Countries in the Middle East and Africa are investing heavily in their hospitality infrastructure to accommodate the growing number of tourists. This includes the development of luxury hotels, resorts, and culinary attractions to cater to the needs and preferences of travellers interested in culinary tourism. Furthermore, culinary events and festivals are becoming increasingly popular in the Middle East and Africa, attracting both domestic and international visitors. These events showcase the region's diverse culinary heritage, promote local producers and artisans, and provide a platform for cultural exchange and celebration.

The tourism authorities in the Middle East and Africa are actively promoting culinary tourism as part of their marketing strategies to attract more visitors to the region. This includes partnerships with chefs, food bloggers, and influencers to showcase the region's culinary offerings and highlight its unique gastronomic experiences. Many dishes in the Middle East and Africa have ancient roots, dating back thousands of years. For example, Egyptian cuisine preserves recipes and ingredients from ancient Egyptian civilization, while Yemeni cuisine reflects influences from the ancient spice trade routes.

According to the research report, “Middle East and Africa Culinary Tourism Market Outlook, 2029”, the Middle East and Africa Culinary Tourism market is anticipated to reach market size of USD 230 Billion by 2029. The tourism industry in the Middle East and Africa is experiencing significant growth, driven by factors such as improved infrastructure, increased air connectivity, and government initiatives to promote tourism. As more travellers visit the region, there is a growing demand for unique and memorable experiences, including culinary tourism. Culinary tourism offers travellers the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and way of life.

Dining at traditional restaurants, visiting food markets, and participating in cooking classes provide insights into the customs, traditions, and daily lives of the people in the Middle East and Africa. The Middle East and Africa are known for their diverse culinary offerings, ranging from aromatic spices and flavorful tagines to savoury stews and grilled meats. Culinary tourists can sample a wide variety of dishes, each showcasing the unique flavours and ingredients of the region. Culinary events and festivals are growing in popularity in the Middle East and Africa, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world.

These events showcase the region's culinary heritage, promote local producers and artisans, and provide opportunities for cultural exchange and celebration. The rise of social media and food tourism trends has increased awareness and interest in culinary experiences in the Middle East and Africa. Travellers are seeking out Instagram-worthy dishes, food markets, and dining experiences, driving demand for culinary tourism in the region. Traditional Middle Eastern and African diets are often celebrated for their health benefits, emphasising fresh ingredients, whole grains, legumes, and lean proteins. Culinary tourists are increasingly interested in exploring these healthy and nutritious culinary traditions as part of their travel experiences.

Market Drivers

• Cultural Diversity: The Middle East and Africa are regions rich in cultural diversity, with a wide range of culinary traditions, ingredients, and flavors. This diversity attracts culinary tourists eager to explore the unique tastes and experiences offered by each destination.
• Culinary Heritage and Tradition: Both regions have deep culinary roots that reflect their rich histories and cultural influences. Culinary tourists are drawn to the opportunity to sample traditional dishes, learn about cooking techniques passed down through generations, and immerse themselves in the culinary heritage of the Middle East and Africa.

Market Challenges

• Language and Cultural Barriers: Language barriers and cultural differences can pose challenges for culinary tourists navigating menus, interacting with locals, and participating in culinary activities. Limited English proficiency and unfamiliar cultural customs may hinder communication and understanding, impacting the overall experience for visitors.
• Quality and Hygiene Standards: Maintaining consistent quality and hygiene standards in food establishments can be a challenge in some areas of the Middle East and Africa. Concerns about food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation may deter culinary tourists from dining out or trying local street food, impacting the reputation of the destination.

Market Opportunity

• Rich Culinary Heritage: The region boasts a rich culinary heritage with diverse flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques influenced by centuries of history and cultural exchange. This provides an opportunity to showcase the unique and authentic culinary traditions of the Middle East and Africa to domestic and international tourists.
• Cultural Exchange and Education: Culinary tourism offers an opportunity for cultural exchange and education, allowing visitors to learn about the customs, traditions, and way of life of local communities through food. Cooking classes, food tours, and dining experiences provide insights into the region's cultural diversity and gastronomic heritage.

Based on the activities, they are segmented into culinary trials, cooking classes, restaurants, food festivals, and others. In terms of mode of booking, they are segmented into online travel agents, traditional agents, and direct booking.

In the Middle East and Africa, food festivals contribute to the market. Food festivals offer a venue to highlight the diversity and rich culinary history of the Middle East and Africa. These gatherings offer a diverse array of regional specialties, ingredients, and cooking methods so that guests can sample the fragrances and tastes of regional cuisine all in one location. Food festivals attract tourists from around the world who are interested in exploring the culinary offerings of the region. These events are often included in travel itineraries and marketed as must-visit attractions, drawing visitors to specific destinations and contributing to the local economy through tourism spending.

Furthermore, the food festivals offer visitors the opportunity to sample a variety of dishes and specialties, ranging from street food and snacks to gourmet cuisine and traditional favorites. Culinary tourists can indulge in tasting sessions, cooking demonstrations, and interactive workshops led by local chefs and food experts, enhancing their gastronomic experience. Food festivals promote cultural exchange and dialogue by bringing together people from different backgrounds to celebrate food, hospitality, and community. Visitors have the chance to interact with locals, learn about their culinary traditions, and gain insights into their way of life, fostering cross-cultural understanding and appreciation.

In the region, the traditional agents contribute to the market. In the tourist sector, traditional travel agencies in the Middle East and Africa have created networks of connections, partnerships, and suppliers. Because of this, they are able to provide extensive packages and customised itineraries that incorporate culinary activities like cooking lessons, food excursions, and restaurant reservations. Travellers visiting the Middle East and Africa encounter language barriers and cultural differences that can impact their culinary experiences. Traditional travel agents can provide assistance with language translation, cultural interpretation, and navigating local customs, ensuring a smoother and more enjoyable culinary journey for their clients.

In terms of tour types, which are segmented into domestic and international, domestic culinary tourism in the Middle East and Africa is driven by cultural pride, familiarity with local cuisine, affordability, and culinary events.

In the Middle East and Africa, domestic tourism is the leading type of culinary tourism market. Domestic tourists are often proud of their cultural heritage and eager to explore the culinary traditions of their own country or region. They have a strong emotional connection to local dishes, ingredients, and flavours, making culinary tourism a natural choice for exploring and celebrating their cultural identity. Domestic tourists are already familiar with the local cuisine, ingredients, and dining customs, which makes culinary tourism more accessible and appealing to them.

They have grown up eating traditional dishes prepared by family members or enjoying meals at local restaurants, creating a sense of nostalgia and comfort associated with local food experiences. Culinary tourism within one's own country or region is often more affordable and accessible than travelling abroad. Domestic tourists can explore nearby culinary destinations, food markets, and restaurants without the expense and hassle of international travel, making it an attractive option for weekend getaways and day trips. Governments and tourism authorities in the Middle East and Africa often promote domestic tourism as a means to support the local economy, preserve cultural heritage, and create jobs.

Culinary tourism plays a key role in domestic tourism promotion campaigns, encouraging citizens to explore their own country's culinary offerings and support local businesses. The Middle East and Africa are regions of vast geographic and cultural diversity, with each country and region offering its own unique culinary traditions and specialties. Domestic tourists have the opportunity to explore the culinary diversity within their own country, from the spicy flavours of North African cuisine to the aromatic spices of Middle Eastern dishes, without crossing borders. Furthermore, culinary events and festivals are popular attractions for domestic tourists, offering opportunities to sample regional specialties, attend cooking demonstrations, and participate in food-related activities. These events celebrate local culinary traditions, promote tourism within the region, and attract visitors from nearby cities and towns.

Based on the report, the major countries covered include Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and the rest of the Middle East and Africa.

In the Middle East and Africa, the UAE significantly contributes to the market. The UAE boasts a diverse culinary scene influenced by its multicultural population and international residents. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of cuisines, from traditional Emirati dishes to international favourites, reflecting the country's cosmopolitan nature. The UAE is home to innovative chefs and cutting-edge restaurants that push the boundaries of gastronomy. Dubai, in particular, has gained recognition as a culinary hub with a growing number of Michelin-starred restaurants and celebrity chefs, attracting food enthusiasts from around the world.

Dubai is home to around 13,000 cafes and restaurants; the UAE hosts a variety of culinary events and festivals throughout the year, including the Dubai Food Festival and Abu Dhabi Food Festival. These events showcase the best of local and international cuisine, provide opportunities for culinary exploration, and attract visitors seeking gastronomic experiences. The UAE has invested heavily in its tourism infrastructure, with world-class hotels, restaurants, and attractions that cater to the needs of culinary tourists.

The country's modern transportation network, luxury shopping malls, and entertainment venues make it a convenient and attractive destination for travellers seeking culinary experiences. The UAE government has prioritised tourism as a key driver of economic growth and diversification. Initiatives such as Dubai's Tourism Vision 2022 and Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030 aim to enhance the country's tourism offerings, including culinary tourism, through investment in infrastructure, promotion, and development of tourist attractions.

Key participants in the culinary tourism business are constantly inventing and diversifying their services to meet the changing demands of guests. They are focusing on developing immersive, authentic, and locally sourced food experiences that go beyond standard dining. This includes tailored culinary excursions, chef-led cooking lessons, farm-to-table experiences, and collaborations with local food artisans. Top businesses are also incorporating technology to improve the client experience, such as using apps for personalized tour recommendations and online platforms for simpler booking and review. Furthermore, there is a greater emphasis on sustainability and responsible tourism, with top enterprises promoting environmentally friendly practices and supporting local communities. These efforts attempt to provide unique, memorable gastronomic experiences while building a closer connection between tourists and the local culture.

Recent Developments

Considered in this report

• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report

• Culinary Tourism market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Activity Type

• Culinary Trials
• Cooking Classes
• Restaurants
• Food Festival
• Others

By Mode of Booking

• Online travel agents (OTA)
• Traditional agents
• Direct booking

By Tour

• Domestic
• International

The approach of the report:

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

Intended audience

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


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