KSA Pet Food Industry Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025-2030

Saudi Arabia pet food market is valued at USD 275 million, driven by rising pet ownership, disposable incomes, and awareness of pet nutrition, with growth in premium products.

The Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market is valued at USD 275 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing pet ownership, rising disposable incomes, and a growing awareness of pet nutrition among consumers. The market has seen a shift towards premium and specialized pet food products, reflecting changing consumer preferences and a focus on pet health and wellness. The trend of pet humanization and the willingness of owners to invest in premium, organic, and health-focused pet food options are further accelerating market expansion.

Key cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam dominate the market due to their large populations and urbanization trends. These cities have a higher concentration of pet owners and a growing number of pet specialty stores and supermarkets, making them critical hubs for pet food distribution and sales. The expansion of modern retail formats and e-commerce platforms in these urban centers has further improved product accessibility and consumer choice.

In 2023, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) implemented the "Regulation of Animal Feed and Pet Food Products, 2023" (issued by the Saudi Food and Drug Authority), which mandates comprehensive labeling requirements for pet food products. These requirements include clear disclosure of ingredients, nutritional content, and country of origin, with compliance enforced through registration and inspection processes to ensure product safety and transparency for consumers.

Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market Segmentation

By Pet Type:

The pet food market can be segmented based on the type of pets, which includes cats, dogs, and other pets such as birds and small mammals. Among these, the dog food segment is the most dominant due to the increasing popularity of dogs as pets in urban households. The growing trend of pet humanization has led to a rise in demand for high-quality dog food products, which are perceived as essential for pet health and well-being. However, the cat food segment is also experiencing rapid growth, supported by the rising number of cat owners in urban areas and the introduction of specialized cat nutrition products.

By Product Type:

The market can also be segmented by product type, which includes dry food, wet and canned food, and snacks and treats. The dry food segment holds the largest market share, driven by its convenience, longer shelf life, and cost-effectiveness. Consumers increasingly prefer dry food for its ease of storage and feeding, making it a staple in pet diets. Wet and canned food, as well as snacks and treats, are gaining traction as pet owners seek variety and functional benefits such as dental health and weight management.

Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Nestlé Purina PetCare, Mars Petcare, Hill's Pet Nutrition, Royal Canin, Spectrum Brands (United Pet Group), Del Monte Foods Inc., Almarai, Al Watania Poultry, Bounty Pet Foods, Feline Natural, Canidae Pet Foods, Orijen (Champion Petfoods), Taste of the Wild (Diamond Pet Foods), Pet Arabia, Jazan Poultry contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

Increasing Pet Ownership:

The pet ownership rate in Saudi Arabia has surged, with approximately 60% of households owning at least one pet as of now. This translates to around 8 million pet owners in the country. The growing trend of pet adoption is driven by urbanization and changing lifestyles, leading to increased demand for pet food products. As more families consider pets as integral members, the need for quality pet nutrition becomes paramount, further fueling market growth.

Rising Disposable Income:

Saudi Arabia's GDP per capita is projected to reach $27,000 in the near future, reflecting a steady increase in disposable income. This economic growth allows consumers to allocate more funds towards pet care, including premium pet food products. As pet owners become more affluent, they are increasingly willing to invest in high-quality nutrition for their pets, driving demand for diverse and specialized pet food offerings in the market.

Growing Awareness of Pet Nutrition:

There is a notable shift in consumer behavior towards understanding pet nutrition, with 70% of pet owners now prioritizing high-quality ingredients. This trend is supported by increased access to information through social media and veterinary advice. As a result, the demand for specialized diets, including grain-free and organic options, is on the rise, prompting manufacturers to innovate and expand their product lines to meet these evolving consumer preferences.

Market Challenges

High Import Tariffs:

Saudi Arabia imposes significant import tariffs on pet food products, averaging around 5%. This creates a barrier for international brands looking to enter the market, leading to higher retail prices for consumers. Consequently, local manufacturers face challenges in competing with imported products, which can limit market growth and restrict the availability of diverse pet food options for consumers.

Limited Local Production:

The local production capacity for pet food in Saudi Arabia is currently estimated at only 30% of total market demand. This shortfall necessitates heavy reliance on imports, which can be inconsistent and costly. The lack of established local manufacturers limits the variety of products available and can hinder the overall growth of the pet food industry, as consumers seek more options and competitive pricing.

Saudi Arabia Pet Food Industry Market Future Outlook

The Saudi Arabian pet food industry is poised for significant transformation, driven by evolving consumer preferences and economic growth. As disposable incomes rise, pet owners are increasingly inclined to invest in premium and specialized pet food products. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce platforms is expected to enhance accessibility, allowing consumers to explore a wider range of options. The focus on sustainability and health-conscious products will likely shape future offerings, aligning with global trends in pet care and nutrition.

Market Opportunities

Growth of E-commerce Platforms:

The e-commerce sector in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach $13 billion in the near future, providing a significant opportunity for pet food brands. Online shopping offers convenience and access to a broader range of products, enabling consumers to purchase specialized pet food easily. This trend can help brands expand their market reach and cater to the growing demand for diverse pet nutrition options.

Introduction of Premium Pet Food Products:

The premium pet food segment is expected to grow rapidly, with an estimated market value of $1 billion in the near future. As consumers become more health-conscious regarding their pets, there is a rising demand for high-quality, organic, and natural pet food products. This presents an opportunity for manufacturers to innovate and develop premium offerings that cater to discerning pet owners seeking the best for their pets.