GCC Chia Seed Market Size and Share Analysis - Growth Trends and Forecast Report 2025-2033

The GCC chia seed market was valued at USD 30 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 180 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 20.68% during the period 2025-2033. This is due to the growing health awareness, rising demand for plant-based nutrition, and the growing application of chia seeds in food, beverages, and dietary supplements in the Gulf region.

GCC Chia Seed Market Outlook

Chia seeds are small, nutrient-dense seeds of the Salvia hispanica plant, originally from Central America. Chia seeds are a treasure trove of omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, protein, antioxidants, and essential minerals. Chia seeds are becoming increasingly popular in the GCC region as consumers become increasingly health-conscious and look for natural superfoods that help maintain well-being and fitness. These seeds are extremely versatile and are usually sprinkled over smoothies, yogurts, cereals, baked foods, and drinks. Their water-absorbing ability to create a gel-like consistency also makes them a popular addition in weight control diets and plant-based recipes as an egg replacer.

Within the GCC, especially in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, there is an increasing demand for organic, gluten-free, and plant-based food items, contributing to the consumption of chia seeds. With health trends around the world and an increased consciousness of preventive healthcare, chia seeds find more and more mentions in supermarkets, health food chains, and cafes, all consolidating the growing visibility of the seeds in modern diets of the region.

Growth Drivers in the GCC Chia Seed Market

Increased Demand for Superfoods and Health Consciousness

Health-aware consumers throughout the GCC are increasingly incorporating superfoods into their diets, and chia seeds have been gaining popularity as a result of their fiber, omega-3, and antioxidant content. As consumers become increasingly aware of the long-term value of preventive health and nutrition, the market is witnessing increasing demand, especially among urban dwellers. The trend towards plant-based eating is also driving the adoption of chia seeds in daily meals, smoothies, and snacks. August 2022, Nutiva, a leader in plant-based organic superfoods, announced that its Organic Chia Seeds are now Glyphosate Residue Free, following certification by The Detox Project.

Growth of Functional Food and Beverage Industry

The GCC's expanding functioal food and beverage industry is playing a key role in the growth of the chia seed market. Food companies are increasingly using chia seeds in cereals, energy bars, juices, and dairy-alternative products. With a younger demographic and increasing disposable incomes, there is greater demand for nutrient-dense and convenient food products, which is driving increased commercial use of chia seeds throughout the Gulf food industry. In November 2023, Benexia launched encapsulated oil as part of its efforts to discover new applications for chia seeds. In the case of chia, Chilean firm Benexia has traveled a long way from merely selling seeds. They now offer a variety of components based on chia.

Government Support for Organic and Nutritional Products

Government programs encouraging healthy consumption and organic cultivation are encouraging the adoption of chia seeds throughout the region. Initiatives aimed at curtailing lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes, together with public education campaigns regarding diet, have inspired the use of chia seeds in local diets. Assistance for the importation of natural and organic products, as well as subsidies for them, has also contributed to the success of distributors and retailers of chia seeds, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE. March 2025, The Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture confirmed the successful localisation of growing chia in various relatively favorable parts of Saudi Arabia, notably the Makkah region.

Issues in the GCC Chia Seed Market

High Import Dependence and Price Fluctuations

As chia seeds are not grown on a commercial basis in the GCC, the countries in the GCC are highly dependent on imports mainly from South America and Central America. This creates dependence on unstable supply chains as well as vulnerability to price volatilities and currency rate volatility, logistics pricing, and export demand. This uncertainty may act as a restraint for small-size retailers and makers to adopt a full-fledged product portfolio consisting of chia seeds.

Limited Consumer Awareness in Rural Areas

Although urban GCC consumers are well-aware of the health properties of chia seeds, in rural and more traditionally conservative territories, awareness is still in its nascent stages. Most consumers lack exposure to the application of chia in food or are wary of introducing foreign superfoods. The absence of localized campaigns and educational programs limits greater market penetration beyond the urban centers of Riyadh, Dubai, and Doha.

GCC Whole Chia Seed Market

Whole chia seeds dominate the GCC market due to their versatility and natural shelf-stability. These seeds are primarily consumed by individuals who mix them into beverages, yogurts, and salads. With minimal processing and higher perceived purity, whole chia seeds appeal to health-conscious consumers seeking organic, non-GMO options. Their use in food service and retail products continues to rise, contributing significantly to total chia seed imports in the region.

GCC Milled/Ground Chia Seed Market

Ground or milled chia seeds are becoming increasingly popular in the GCC because they are more digestible and convenient. They are particularly ideal for use in bakery products, smoothies, and infant food recipes. The seeds provide a finer texture and are ideal for recipes where a smoother texture is desired. They, however, have a shorter shelf life than whole seeds, resulting in more vigilant inventory management by manufacturers and retailers.

GCC Chia Seed Food & Beverage Market

Food and beverages continues to be the largest application area for chia seeds in the GCC. In breakfast cereals and dairy alternatives, in bottled juices and energy bars, chia seeds are being increasingly utilized as a nutritional booster. Increasing consumer interest in plant-based and protein-based diets has contributed heavily towards this trend. The market is likely to further expand with greater innovative product offerings of chia-based products across the region.

GCC Chia Seed Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals Market

The pharmaceutical and nutraceutical industries in the GCC region are increasingly using chia seeds because of their heart health, digestive, and anti-inflammatory properties. Chia seeds are added to powdered health mixes, capsule supplements, and therapeutic foods aimed at wellness-seekers. With a surge in demand for natural health remedies and preventive healthcare products, the segment has high-value potential, particularly in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar, within premium product segments.

Saudi Arabia Chia Seed Market

Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of the GCC chia seed market with its high population density, expanding middle class, and high awareness of nutrition and health. Chia seeds are frequently consumed in food preparation and are increasingly being adopted by health-conscious individuals. Availability of health-conscious retail chains and high demand for superfoods are propelling sales. The Kingdom's drive toward the adoption of healthy lifestyles under Vision 2030 also improves the prospects for the market for chia seeds.

UAE Chia Seed Market

The UAE has become a center for upscale health foods, and chia seeds are commonly found in supermarkets, health food stores, and on the internet. High expatriate numbers, rising fitness, and disposable incomes underpin the consumption of chia seeds by all segments. Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in fact, have experienced strong integration of chia seeds into food and beverage menus at restaurants and cafes. Government-led wellness programs further drive the growth of the market.

Kuwait Chia Seed Market

Kuwait is experiencing consistent growth in the market for chia seeds as consumers look to wellness and healthy diets. Health food stores, growing membership in gyms, and an upward trend of plant-based eating are fueling demand. The market is still emerging relative to Saudi Arabia and UAE but enjoys high purchasing power and urban consumers embracing superfoods as a part of their lifestyle. Product diversification is anticipated to fuel future adoption.

Qatar Chia Seed Market

Qatar's market for chia seed is increasing due to increased awareness among consumers, particularly in the capital city of Doha. The government focus on the alleviation of lifestyle diseases has propelled changes in food consumption patterns within the country. Chia seeds are gaining prominence in functional food, sports foods, and well-being-oriented restaurants. Western influence on food culture and enhanced presence of web-based health food networks fuel the expansion of the market in retail as well as foodservice segments.

GCC Chia Seed Market Segment

Form

• Whole Chia
• Milled/Ground Chia
• Pre-hydrate Chia
• Chia Oil

Application

• Food & Beverages
• Pharmaceuticals & Nutraceuticals
• Personal Care & Cosmetics
• Others

Countries

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Qatar
• Oman
• Bahrain
• Rest of GCC

The key players have been analyzed by:

• Overviews
• Key Persons
• Recent Developments
• Revenue

Key Players Analysis

• Spectrum Organic Products LLC
• Bayer AG
• The Chia Co.
• Mamma Chia
• Benexia Chia
• Chiatrition Chia Seeds
• Glanbia Nutritionals
• Health Works Chia Seeds