Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Market Report by Type, Form, Distribution Channel, Cities and Company Analysis 2026-2034

The Saudi Arabia poultry meat market is set to grow steadily, from US$ 4.93 billion in 2025 to US$ 5.85 billion in 2034. The compound annual growth rate (CAGR) for this growth is anticipated to be 1.92% between 2026 and 2034. Population growth, consumer preference for low-cost protein sources, and changing dietary habits are among the primary drivers for market development in the region.

Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Market Outlooks

Poultry meat comprises the edible flesh of domesticated fowls including chicken, turkey, duck, and quail among others, with the chicken being the most popular kind of meat across the world. This kind of meat has been known to contain nutritious elements like proteins, vitamins B6 and B12 and less fats as compared to other types of meat. The meat can be prepared in various ways, including grilling, frying, baking, and boiling. In addition, it can also be used as an ingredient in many foods including sausages and nuggets.

The poultry meat plays an important role in the diet of the Saudis because of several reasons. The meat can be incorporated into traditional foods like kabsa and shawarma, as well as into the modern foods. Preference for the type of meat comes from its cheapness and availability, its compatibility with the religious laws, and its nutritional value. Moreover, poultry meat has become more common owing to the increasing health consciousness of Saudi Arabian people.

Growth Drivers in the Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Market

Rising Population and Increasing Protein Demand

As per the current state, there are 33,264,292 people living in Saudi Arabia in 2023, and it is forecasted that the population will grow by 43% to reach 47,693,910 people by 2050. The increasing population and urbanization of Saudi Arabia are the main factors leading to the growing demand for poultry meat in this country. Urbanization is accompanied by dietary changes, in particular, people pay more attention to eating protein foods, and chicken is gaining popularity because of affordable costs. Moreover, compared to beef and lamb, poultry meat is much cheaper. Besides, there is a significant number of expatriates in Saudi Arabia who prefer to eat chicken as one of their main sources of proteins. Furthermore, the government tries to ensure food security in the country, which promotes domestic poultry meat production to satisfy the growing demands. People change their eating habits and lifestyle, and thus they consume poultry products as part of a well-balanced diet. As per the ministry of municipal & rural affairs, around 82.1% of the total population resides in urban areas while 17.9% reside in rural areas. The urbanization percentages at the regional level reveal that there are 6 regions having urbanization percentages exceeding 80%. They include Eastern Region (93.2%), Riyadh (90.9%), Holy Makkah (87.6%), Northern Borders (86.7%), Tabuk (85.9%), and Jouf (84.5%). It is interesting to note that around 76% of Saudi population resides in urban areas while 24% in rural areas, while for non-Saudi population, 90% reside in urban areas while 10% in rural areas.

Expansion of Quick-Service Restaurants (QSRs) and Food Service Sector

The exponential growth in the quick service restaurants (QSR) and food service sector in Saudi Arabia has been the cause of an increase in poultry consumption. Fast food chains both local and international use poultry in the preparation of items like fried chicken, hamburgers, sandwiches, and nuggets. The trend in out-of-home meals has contributed to an increase in the consumption of poultry because of its convenience and availability. Technology, through delivery apps, has made poultry dishes more convenient and easily accessible. In addition, global players entering the Saudi market have brought new poultry dishes that match the tastes of Saudi consumers. There is also increased tourism in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030, which has led to more restaurant and catering services and, consequently, more demand for poultry. For example, in June 2023, GapMaps, a data analytics software provider that enables firms to pick optimal locations for their brick-and-mortar stores, released its first Fast Food & QSR Retail Network Report in Saudi Arabia for 2023. This report provides information on market shares and store numbers for 15 major fast food and quick service restaurants (QSRs).

Government Support and Focus on Domestic Production

The government of Saudi Arabia is a major driving factor behind the poultry meat industry, as they implement various strategies geared towards ensuring food security and less reliance on foreign products. For example, under their vision of 2030, they have provided various subsidies and financing to promote domestic poultry meat production. They have made significant investments in modern agricultural technologies and feed efficiency to improve the output. They also actively engage in the private and foreign investment in poultry meat production. These efforts have resulted in a higher degree of self-sufficiency levels in terms of poultry meat production within the country, providing steady availability in the domestic market. With the ongoing focus on agriculture by the Kingdom, these encouraging measures will likely result in accelerated growth within the poultry meat industry in the future. Saudi Arabia has taken significant leaps towards achieving self-reliance, having managed to achieve 45 percent self-sufficiency in 2016 up to 68 percent as per the reports presented at the Middle East Poultry Expo 2025. The current target is to achieve an additional 12 percent to become self-reliant up to 80 percent by the year 2025 through significant investments and policies to realize the goal. Bloomberg reports indicate that the Saudi government has invested five billion dollars to increase poultry production up to 1.3 million tons of broiler chickens each year. The investment has been carried out by the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture through the issuance of 275 licenses for broiler chicken projects and eggs production projects, besides the government having spent subsidies worth more than 665 million riyals.

Challenges in the Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Market

Dependence on Imported Feed and Production Costs

A critical obstacle in the Saudi Arabian poultry meat sector is that of the country’s overreliance on feed ingredients sourced from abroad, which include such raw materials as corn and soybean meal. With the predominantly arid climate of Saudi Arabia, it is difficult to grow enough of these crops locally to provide enough feed for the poultry meat industry. High prices associated with the procurement of these ingredients greatly affect the total production costs, limiting the profitability of the industry. Furthermore, changing costs associated with transportation and foreign exchange rates contribute to the growth of costs in the industry. Small and medium-sized poultry producers are more likely to be affected by such changes due to their lower financial stability.

Disease Outbreaks and Biosecurity Risks

In Saudi Arabia, there is a susceptibility of the poultry industry to disease outbreaks such as avian influenza, which could significantly disrupt production activities and the supply chain. Disease outbreaks cause substantial losses, both direct and indirect, to the poultry industry. Direct losses may arise from losses in the number of birds raised and produced because of the deaths that result from diseases. Indirectly, disease outbreaks may lead to the loss of customer trust in poultry products, and this would have a detrimental effect on the sales volume and profit margins of firms engaged in the poultry business. It is necessary to maintain stringent bio-security protocols to protect the flock from disease. However, maintaining such strict bio-security protocols is difficult and costly, especially for small-scale farmers.

Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Market

In Saudi Arabia, the poultry meat market represents one of the rapidly developing segments of the local food market. Such a market development is facilitated by domestic demand and governmental measures promoting the production of poultry in the country. Poultry meat, particularly chicken, is popular due to low costs, widespread accessibility, and compliance with halal standards. Moreover, a growing population, high rates of urbanization, and increased disposable income contribute greatly to higher consumption levels. As part of its Vision 2030 plan, the Saudi Arabian government focuses on ensuring food security and achieving greater independence in the production of poultry meat. Modern technologies in agriculture, enhanced supply chain management systems, and the development of the retail sector positively impact this market. Besides, the preference for healthier types of proteins also contributes to the success of the market.

Saudi Arabia Turkey Meat Market

Turkey meat market share in Saudi Arabia is relatively small compared to that of chicken meat, although there is steady progress because of evolving eating habits and greater exposure to foreign food types. Turkey meat is considered a more healthy choice because of its lower calorie content and reduced fat, making it popular among health-conscious buyers. The most significant demand for turkey meat comes during festivities and other celebrations, special events, and the hospitality industry, where Western cuisine menu options are served. Despite the small local production volume, imports play a vital role in supplying turkey meat to the market. Processed turkey meat products, such as sliced, sausages, and deli meats, have become more popular. Nevertheless, the relatively high cost compared to chicken is still an obstacle to the development of the segment.

Saudi Arabia Fresh / Chilled Poultry Meat Market

The fresh and chilled poultry meat market in Saudi Arabia has a considerable presence in the total poultry market due to the preference of customers for the quality and taste of the product and its freshness. Many people prefer to eat fresh or chilled poultry as a result of their customs and trust in the quality of the product. This segment of the market is dominated by local manufacturers, who receive support from the government's policies aimed at increasing production and reducing imports. Advanced technology and efficient logistics systems have contributed to the widespread availability and safety of chilled poultry meat products in both cities and semi-urban communities. Fresh poultry is available at many retail stores, and the increasing concern of the population about their health contributes to the growth of this sector.

Saudi Arabia Frozen Poultry Meat Market

The market for frozen poultry meat products is important for supply consistency and extended shelf life in Saudi Arabia, considering the conditions in the country. There are several advantages that make frozen poultry products popular, such as their convenience, affordable price, and the opportunity to store them easily. Imports make up a big part of the frozen poultry products' supply, which helps ensure stable supply levels during peak consumption periods. Thanks to innovations in freezing technologies and improvements in cold storages, the quality of frozen poultry has improved greatly in the past years. Consumers prefer buying frozen meat products in order to buy them in bulk quantities and cook fast, while the food service sector prefers frozen poultry in order to maintain quality standards and cost-effectiveness.

Saudi Arabia Poultry Meatballs Market

The market for poultry meatballs in Saudi Arabia is increasing in popularity as part of the wider category of processed and convenience foods. Poultry meatballs, which can be made from either chicken or turkey meat, are popular because of their adaptability, simplicity of use, and ability to be used across a range of cooking styles. They are usually used to prepare foods like pasta meals, sandwiches, and traditional dishes of the Middle East. Urbanization and busier schedules have increased the preference for prepared foods that can either be cooked immediately or consumed straight away, making poultry meatballs an ideal choice. Innovations in flavorings and healthier options, such as reduced fat content and no preservatives, have been introduced by food manufacturers to cater to the health-focused consumer base. The convenience and wide variety of products make this a fast-growing market.

Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat in Supermarkets and Hypermarkets Market

Supermarkets and hypermarkets constitute essential players in the process of poultry meat distribution in Saudi Arabia, as they supply a wide variety of fresh, chilled, frozen, and processed goods from one place. Modern retail networks contribute greatly to product availability, quality, and low prices; hence, supermarkets become favorite outlets for shoppers. The increasing number of organized retail chains across the territory contributes to better product availability and visibility. Hygiene, proper storage, and clear labeling of products are among supermarket priorities. Promotion programs, discounts, and combination packs promote further purchase of chicken products. Another important trend is the development of private brands sold in retailers' shops; they are more affordable and offer a guaranteed level of quality. Online grocery services and delivery services add value to the retail sector.

Riyadh Poultry Meat Market

The Riyadh city is the capital of Saudi Arabia and houses the most important markets for poultry meat products in the kingdom. The population in Riyadh is very high, urbanization rate is high, and purchasing power of consumers is relatively high; therefore, demand for poultry meat is consistently strong. The people in Riyadh depend on poultry meat as the main source of proteins because it is affordable and can be used in traditional and modern recipes. Poultry meat is widely available in Riyadh through established retail networks such as supermarkets, hypermarkets, and online grocery services. Food service providers like restaurants, hotels, and fast food companies are also an important source of market growth in the region. Increased government efforts to encourage domestic production of poultry meat products have further improved supply chain networks.

Jeddah Poultry Meat Market

The dynamics of the poultry meat market in Jeddah is associated with its position as a large center of commerce, port city, and a transit point for global business and tourism. The multicultural society, composed of foreigners and visitors, leads to strong demand for poultry produce of various kinds. Poultry meat is used in cooking typical Saudi food and various international meals served in Jeddah cuisine spots. There is a large seaport, facilitating imports of frozen poultry. Both retail outlets and hospitality industry contribute to the demand for poultry meat. The trend towards convenient foods is a positive factor for increasing consumption of poultry meat products. Ongoing urbanization and development of the hotel and restaurant sector will continue to ensure high demand for poultry meat in Jeddah.

Dhahran Poultry Meat Market

The market for poultry meat in Dhahran is driven by its smaller population but high income levels. Dhahran plays an important role in the oil and energy industry because it is a home for many professionals, both locals and foreigners, who have contributed towards shaping the consumer patterns. Consumers in Dhahran usually seek high-quality products and hence are interested in buying expensive poultry meat that includes fresh, organic, and processed meat. There are many retail stores available that sell a variety of poultry products, which include internationally known super markets. Moreover, the increasing demand for ready to cook and eat poultry products is attributed to busy working schedules and other engagements of consumers. The food services business also creates constant demand for poultry meat.

Dammam Poultry Meat Market

Being one of the prominent cities in the Eastern Province, Dammam has a thriving poultry meat market, owing to the industrial activity and the growing population in the area. Its geographical location close to trade centers as well as neighboring Gulf countries makes it possible for the products to reach the consumers easily. There are wide uses of poultry meats in the homes owing to its affordable prices and easy methods of cooking. It is made easily available through the supermarkets, hypermarkets, and traditional markets within the city. The city has an extensive foodservice industry that includes restaurants, which plays a crucial role in the growth of the market, particularly the bulk and processed chicken products. Moreover, there are government efforts aimed at encouraging domestic production of chicken meat, thereby providing market stability.

Saudi Arabia Poultry Meat Industry Segments

Type

• Chicken
• Turkey
• Duck
• Other

Form

• Canned
• Fresh / Chilled
• Frozen
• Processed
• Deli Meats
• Marinated/ Tenders
• Meatballs
• Nuggets
• Sausages
• Other Processed Poultry

Distribution Channel

• Convenience Stores
• Online Channel
• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Others

Cities

• Riyadh
• Jeddah
• Dammam
• Dhahran
• Jubail
• Khobar
• Tabuk
• Mecca
• Medina
• Rest of Cities

All companies have been covered with 5 Viewpoints

• Overviews
• Key Person
• Recent Developments
• SWOT Analysis
• Revenue Analysis

Key Players Analysis

• Al-Watania Poultry
• Almarai Food Company
• Almunajem Foods
• Americana Group
• BRF S.A.
• Golden Chicken Farm Factory Company CJSC
• Sunbulah Group
• Tanmiah Food Company
• The Savola Group