Key Insights

The Middle East seafood market, valued at $21.73 billion in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 4.20% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key drivers. Rising disposable incomes across the region are increasing consumer spending on premium protein sources, including seafood. A growing tourism sector, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, further boosts demand, as seafood features prominently in hotel menus and restaurant offerings. Furthermore, increasing awareness of seafood's health benefits is driving consumption, particularly among health-conscious consumers. The market is segmented by type (fish, shrimp, other seafood), distribution channel (off-trade, on-trade), and form (canned, fresh/chilled, frozen, processed). The dominance of specific segments will likely shift over the forecast period; for example, demand for convenient processed seafood and frozen options may increase due to changing lifestyles. However, challenges remain. Fluctuations in seafood supply due to environmental factors and overfishing pose potential risks. Moreover, maintaining consistent quality and safety standards across the diverse supply chain requires continuous improvement and investment. Key players like Enhance Group Holding Company Limited, Almunajem Foods, and National Fishing Company KSC are strategically positioning themselves to capitalize on market opportunities and address these challenges. The regional focus encompasses the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Israel, Egypt, Oman, and the Rest of the Middle East, each presenting unique market dynamics and growth potentials.

The projected growth trajectory is influenced by various factors. Government initiatives promoting sustainable fishing practices and aquaculture will positively impact supply and potentially mitigate price volatility. Furthermore, the rising popularity of diverse culinary traditions incorporating seafood will expand consumption beyond traditional markets. However, potential price increases due to inflation and global supply chain disruptions could temper growth rates in certain segments. The competitive landscape is characterized by both established local players and international companies vying for market share. Innovation in product offerings, such as value-added seafood products and sustainable sourcing practices, will be crucial for maintaining a competitive edge and attracting consumers. The focus on improving cold chain infrastructure and logistics will be critical in ensuring the freshness and quality of seafood products throughout the supply chain, particularly for the fresh/chilled segment.

This in-depth report provides a comprehensive analysis of the Middle East seafood market, encompassing market dynamics, growth trends, dominant segments, key players, and future outlook. The study period covers 2019-2033, with a base year of 2025 and a forecast period of 2025-2033. The report utilizes data from the historical period (2019-2024) and leverages proprietary data analysis to deliver precise market sizing in Million units.

Middle East Seafood Market Dynamics & Structure

The Middle East seafood market is characterized by a moderate level of concentration, with a few large players dominating specific segments. Technological innovation, particularly in processing and preservation techniques, is a key driver. Stringent regulatory frameworks concerning food safety and sustainability influence market practices. Competitive substitutes, including plant-based alternatives, are emerging, but seafood maintains a strong position due to cultural preferences and nutritional value. End-user demographics reveal a growing demand from affluent consumers seeking high-quality and diverse seafood options. M&A activity has been moderate in recent years, with a focus on expanding distribution networks and acquiring specialized processing capabilities. The total number of M&A deals in the period 2019-2024 was estimated to be xx.

• Market Concentration: Moderately concentrated, with top 5 players holding xx% market share in 2024.
• Technological Innovation: Focus on automation in processing, improved preservation techniques (e.g., modified atmosphere packaging), and traceability technologies.
• Regulatory Framework: Stringent food safety and labeling regulations, impacting import/export procedures and production standards.
• Competitive Substitutes: Growth of plant-based seafood alternatives, posing a gradual threat to traditional seafood market share.
• End-User Demographics: Rising disposable incomes and changing dietary preferences drive demand for premium and diverse seafood options.
• M&A Trends: Consolidation through acquisitions focused on enhancing distribution and processing capabilities.

Middle East Seafood Market Growth Trends & Insights

The Middle East seafood market exhibits robust growth, driven by factors such as increasing per capita consumption, rising tourism, and the expanding food service sector. The market is projected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. The CAGR from 2025 to 2033 is estimated at xx%, with a market size reaching xx million units by 2033. Technological disruptions in aquaculture and fishing practices are influencing supply chains and product availability. Consumer behavior is shifting toward healthier dietary choices, favoring sustainably sourced and premium quality seafood.

(Further detailed analysis of market size evolution, adoption rates, technological disruptions, and consumer behavior shifts will be provided in the full report.)

Dominant Regions, Countries, or Segments in Middle East Seafood Market

The UAE and Saudi Arabia dominate the Middle East seafood market, driven by higher per capita consumption and robust economic growth. Within the segment breakdown, frozen seafood holds the largest market share due to its extended shelf life and convenience. The on-trade channel (restaurants, hotels) shows faster growth compared to the off-trade channel (retail). Fish constitutes the largest segment by type, followed by shrimp and other seafood.

• Key Drivers: Economic growth, increasing tourism, expanding food service sector, and rising consumer preference for healthier diets.
• UAE & Saudi Arabia Dominance: High per capita seafood consumption, large populations, and strong infrastructure support.
• Frozen Seafood's Market Share: Convenience and extended shelf life lead to higher demand.
• On-Trade Channel Growth: Strong growth driven by the thriving hospitality sector.
• Fish Segment Leadership: High consumer preference and cultural significance.

Middle East Seafood Market Product Landscape

The Middle East seafood market showcases diverse product offerings, ranging from fresh and chilled to frozen and processed seafood. Innovations focus on convenient packaging, extended shelf life, and value-added products. Technological advancements in processing and preservation enhance product quality and reduce waste. Unique selling propositions (USPs) include sustainable sourcing certifications, traceability systems, and premium quality ingredients.

Key Drivers, Barriers & Challenges in Middle East Seafood Market

Key Drivers:

• Rising disposable incomes and changing dietary preferences.
• Growth of the food service industry.
• Increasing tourism.
• Government support for sustainable aquaculture practices.

Key Challenges:

• Fluctuations in seafood supply due to overfishing and climate change.
• Price volatility due to global supply chain disruptions.
• Stringent regulatory requirements and compliance costs.
• Competition from imported seafood products. The import volume in 2024 was xx million units.

Emerging Opportunities in Middle East Seafood Market

• Growing demand for sustainably sourced and ethically produced seafood.
• Increasing interest in value-added and convenient seafood products.
• Opportunities in the burgeoning online grocery delivery market.
• Expansion into new markets in the region with lower seafood consumption.

Growth Accelerators in the Middle East Seafood Market Industry

Technological advancements in aquaculture and processing, strategic partnerships between producers and distributors, and market expansion into untapped segments are key growth catalysts. Investment in sustainable practices and innovations in packaging will significantly influence market growth in the long term.

Key Players Shaping the Middle East Seafood Market Market

• Enhance Group Holding Company Limited
• Almunajem Foods
• National Fishing Company K S C
• Oman Fisheries Co SAOG
• Thomsun Group
• Sea Pride LLC
• Albatha Group
• The Deep Seafood Company
• Blue Island PLC
• Yamama Al-Baida Gen Trading & Cont Est

Notable Milestones in Middle East Seafood Market Sector

• May 2022: Gulf Japan Food Fund invests in Oman Fisheries Co SAOG, expanding its global reach.
• February 2022: Asmak announces a strategic distribution agreement with Fish Farm, expanding its market reach.

In-Depth Middle East Seafood Market Market Outlook

The Middle East seafood market is poised for sustained growth, driven by a confluence of factors including rising per capita consumption, expanding tourism, and increasing investments in sustainable aquaculture. Strategic partnerships, technological advancements, and a focus on premium and value-added products will shape future market dynamics. The market presents lucrative opportunities for both established players and new entrants, particularly those focusing on sustainability and innovation.

Middle East Seafood Market Segmentation

• 1. Type
  • 1.1. Fish
  • 1.2. Shrimp
  • 1.3. Other Seafood
• 2. Form
  • 2.1. Canned
  • 2.2. Fresh / Chilled
  • 2.3. Frozen
  • 2.4. Processed
• 3. Distribution Channel
  • 3.1. Off-Trade
    • 3.1.1. Convenience Stores
    • 3.1.2. Online Channel
    • 3.1.3. Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
    • 3.1.4. Others
  • 3.2. On-Trade

Middle East Seafood Market Segmentation By Geography

• 1. Middle East
  • 1.1. Saudi Arabia
  • 1.2. United Arab Emirates
  • 1.3. Israel
  • 1.4. Qatar
  • 1.5. Kuwait
  • 1.6. Oman
  • 1.7. Bahrain
  • 1.8. Jordan
  • 1.9. Lebanon