Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market, By Type (Bakery Products, Pizzas & Pastas, Cereals & Snacks, Savories, Others), By Source (Oilseeds & Pulses, Rice & Corn, Dairy & Meat Products, Others), By Sales Channel (Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market was valued at USD 91.06 million in 2024 and is anticipated to grow USD 137.04 million by 2030 with a CAGR of 7.11% during forecast period. The Saudi Arabia gluten-free products market is experiencing significant growth, driven by increasing health consciousness, rising celiac disease diagnoses, and growing consumer demand for dietary alternatives. The market is expanding with product innovations in bakery, snacks, and ready-to-eat meals. Retail distribution is strengthening, with supermarkets, hypermarkets, and e-commerce platforms enhancing accessibility. Government initiatives promoting healthier lifestyles and the influence of Western dietary trends further support market growth. Additionally, gluten-free products are gaining traction among fitness enthusiasts and individuals adopting gluten-free diets for perceived health benefits, positioning the segment as a key player in Saudi Arabia’s evolving food industry.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Health Awareness and Dietary Preferences

One of the primary factors driving the gluten-free products market in Saudi Arabia is the growing awareness of health and wellness. Consumers are becoming more conscious of their dietary choices, leading to increased demand for gluten-free products beyond just those with gluten intolerance. Many individuals perceive gluten-free diets as beneficial for digestion, weight management, and overall health.

The rise of lifestyle diseases such as obesity and diabetes has also contributed to the demand for healthier food options, including gluten-free alternatives. Saudi Arabia has one of the highest obesity and diabetes rates in the world, prompting consumers to explore dietary changes. Additionally, the influence of global health trends, including ketogenic and paleo diets, has further encouraged the adoption of gluten-free products.

Government-led health initiatives, such as Saudi Vision 2030’s focus on improving public health, are also playing a role in shifting consumer preferences towards healthier food choices. This trend is expected to sustain the demand for gluten-free products in the coming years.

Increasing Awareness and Diagnosis of Celiac Disease and Gluten Sensitivity

The growing awareness of celiac disease and gluten intolerance in Saudi Arabia is a major driver of the gluten-free products market. Celiac disease, an autoimmune disorder triggered by gluten consumption, requires strict adherence to a gluten-free diet. While the condition has historically been underdiagnosed in the region, increasing medical advancements and awareness campaigns are leading to more diagnoses.

Doctors and nutritionists in Saudi Arabia are actively educating patients about gluten intolerance and the importance of gluten-free diets. Social media platforms and health influencers are also contributing to increased consumer awareness. The demand for certified gluten-free food products is rising as consumers seek safe and reliable alternatives.

Additionally, the growing number of expatriates in Saudi Arabia, particularly from Western countries where gluten-free diets are more widely adopted, has further influenced local demand. As more consumers become aware of gluten-related health issues, the market for gluten-free products is expanding beyond niche segments.

Product Innovation and Diverse Offerings

The Saudi Arabia gluten-free products market is witnessing continuous innovation, with manufacturers introducing a variety of gluten-free options to cater to diverse consumer preferences. Initially limited to gluten-free bread and basic flour substitutes, the market has expanded to include snacks, pasta, cereals, baked goods, and ready-to-eat meals.

Global and local food brands are investing in product development to improve the taste, texture, and nutritional value of gluten-free products. The use of alternative ingredients such as quinoa, almond flour, coconut flour, and chickpea flour has enhanced product quality, making gluten-free options more appealing to a wider audience.

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Key Market Challenges

High Product Prices and Affordability Issues

One of the biggest challenges in the Saudi Arabia gluten-free products market is the high cost of gluten-free products compared to regular food items. The production of gluten-free alternatives requires specialized ingredients, such as almond flour, coconut flour, and quinoa, which are often more expensive than traditional wheat-based ingredients. Additionally, the need for dedicated manufacturing facilities to prevent cross-contamination raises production costs, leading to higher retail prices.

Imported gluten-free products, which dominate the market, further contribute to high prices. Many gluten-free brands available in Saudi Arabia are sourced from international markets, leading to additional costs such as import duties, shipping, and distribution expenses. As a result, gluten-free products remain unaffordable for many middle- and lower-income consumers, limiting their accessibility.

Limited Awareness and Misconceptions About Gluten-Free Diets

Although awareness of gluten-related health conditions is increasing in Saudi Arabia, many consumers still lack a clear understanding of gluten-free diets. Some people mistakenly believe that gluten-free products are only for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance, leading to limited demand outside these specific consumer groups.

On the other hand, some consumers view gluten-free diets as a general health trend without fully understanding their nutritional implications. This misconception can lead to skepticism about the actual benefits of gluten-free products, discouraging long-term adoption. Moreover, traditional Saudi cuisine heavily relies on wheat-based foods, such as bread (khubz) and pastries, making it difficult for consumers to transition to gluten-free alternatives.

Key Market Trends

Growing Demand for Clean-Label and Natural Gluten-Free Products

Consumers in Saudi Arabia are becoming more mindful of product ingredients, leading to a rising demand for clean-label and natural gluten-free products. Shoppers are looking for gluten-free options that are free from artificial preservatives, additives, and synthetic ingredients. This trend aligns with the broader global movement toward healthier, minimally processed foods.

As a result, brands are focusing on using natural, whole-food ingredients such as quinoa, buckwheat, almond flour, coconut flour, and chickpea flour to develop high-quality gluten-free products. Manufacturers are also emphasizing organic and non-GMO certifications to appeal to health-conscious consumers. This shift towards clean-label gluten-free products is particularly prominent in premium retail segments, where consumers are willing to pay a premium for healthier alternatives.

To stay competitive, brands in Saudi Arabia are improving product transparency by clearly labeling ingredients, highlighting nutritional benefits, and offering gluten-free options with additional health benefits, such as high fiber, protein, or fortified vitamins and minerals.

Expansion of Gluten-Free Offerings in Restaurants and Cafés

The foodservice sector in Saudi Arabia is adapting to the increasing demand for gluten-free options by expanding menu offerings in restaurants, cafés, and fast-food chains. Previously, gluten-free dining options were limited, but growing consumer demand has encouraged food establishments to introduce dedicated gluten-free menus or modify existing dishes to cater to gluten-sensitive customers.

Major international food chains such as Starbucks, Domino’s, and Pizza Hut have already introduced gluten-free alternatives in their Saudi Arabian locations. Additionally, premium dining establishments and health-focused cafés are incorporating gluten-free dishes into their menus, offering options such as gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts.

Local and independent restaurants are also joining this trend by providing gluten-free alternatives for traditional Saudi dishes, allowing individuals with dietary restrictions to enjoy their favorite foods. This expansion of gluten-free dining options not only increases accessibility but also contributes to greater consumer awareness and acceptance of gluten-free diets.

Segmental Insights

Sales Channel Insights

Supermarkets and hypermarkets dominated the Saudi Arabia gluten-free products market due to their extensive product variety, strong distribution networks, and accessibility. Leading retail chains such as Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Panda offer dedicated gluten-free sections, catering to rising consumer demand. These stores provide a convenient shopping experience, allowing customers to compare brands and access imported gluten-free products. Additionally, promotional campaigns, discounts, and in-store sampling further drive sales. The dominance of supermarkets and hypermarkets is reinforced by their ability to source directly from global suppliers, ensuring a consistent supply of gluten-free products across major cities in Saudi Arabia.

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Regional Insights

The Northern and Central regions dominated the Saudi Arabia gluten-free products market due to high urbanization, rising health awareness, and strong retail infrastructure. Cities like Riyadh, the capital, serve as key hubs for premium supermarkets, hypermarkets, and specialty stores offering a diverse range of gluten-free products. The presence of expatriates, health-conscious consumers, and individuals with gluten intolerance further drives demand. Additionally, higher disposable incomes in these regions enable consumers to afford premium gluten-free alternatives. Expanding e-commerce and foodservice sectors in Northern and Central Saudi Arabia also contribute to the growing accessibility and dominance of gluten-free products in these areas.

Recent Developments

• In December 2023, Modern Mills Company (MMC) introduced a new range of Saudi-branded gluten-free flours to address the limited availability of such products for individuals with celiac disease and those preferring gluten-free diets in the Kingdom.

• In April 2023, Los Angeles-based cookie brand Last Crumb introduced its first gluten-free cookie collection, available through exclusive online "drops" for consumers registered on their website. The gluten-free cookies are crafted using Original Sunshine flour, a non-GMO, unbleached wheat starch-based flour that meets FDA gluten-free standards but is unsuitable for individuals with wheat allergies.

• In April 2024, First Milling Company launched First Food Supplies Company, a wholly owned subsidiary in Jeddah, to drive its expansion in bakery and grain mill product manufacturing and distribution. The new entity will focus on producing bakery goods, grain mill products, starches, pasta, couscous, and similar starch-based items.

Key Market Players

• Galletas Gullon, S.A.
• Modern Mills Company
• Dr. Schär AG
• YummyEarth, Inc.
• Mondelez International, Inc.
• Nestlé S.A.
• General Mills Inc.
• Hunter Foods LLC
• Gandou
• GF Factory Saudi Arabia

Report Scope:

In this report, the Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market, By Type:

o   Bakery Products

o   Pizzas & Pastas

o   Cereals & Snacks

o   Savories

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market, By Source:

o   Oilseeds & Pulses

o   Rice & Corn

o   Dairy & Meat Products

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market, By Sales Channel:

o   Supermarkets/Hypermarkets

o   Convenience Stores

o   Online

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market, By Region:

o   Northern & Central

o   Western

o   Southern

o   Eastern

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market.

Available Customizations:

Saudi Arabia Gluten-Free Products Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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