The Future of Food in the GCC: From Imports to Innovation

A GCC Food Market in Transformation

The Food market in the GCC is undergoing a massive transformation as national strategies and shifting dietary preferences toward more health‑conscious alternatives reshape the sector. Food available for consumption is projected to grow by 4.6 million metric tonnes to reach 55.5 million metric tonnes by 2029, underlining the scale of this change.

Two powerful forces are driving this surge in demand: a population expected to reach 68.4 million by 2030 and a booming tourism industry set to welcome more than 200 million arrivals by the same year. At the same time, consumers are embracing convenience and tech‑enabled services, from online food delivery and health apps to cloud kitchens.

Rising Demand, Structural Challenges

This rising demand comes with structural challenges for the GCC food industry. The region still imports more than 85% of its food, leaving it highly exposed to global supply chain disruptions and external shocks. In parallel, food waste has reached 150 kilograms per person each year, making sustainability an urgent economic and environmental priority.

These pressures are creating a high‑stakes environment in which food security, efficiency, and resilience have become central policy and business themes. 

The Health Revolution Redefining Consumption

The defining trend in the region is a “Health Revolution” that is reshaping what consumers buy and how brands position themselves. Consumers are increasingly demanding products that reflect their values, seeking healthier, organic, and plant‑based options as part of their everyday diets.

This shift is driving a wave of investment and innovation across the food value chain. 

Innovation, AgriTech and Food Security

To strengthen food security and respond to changing consumption patterns, GCC countries are doubling down on innovation. Investment in AgriTech is accelerating, with a particular focus on vertical farming and hydroponic farming to increase local production.

M&A Opportunities Across the GCC Food Sector

For investors and industry leaders, this evolving landscape is creating a fertile environment for mergers and acquisitions. M&A activity is set to accelerate across tech‑focused segments such as digital F&B platforms, online food delivery, health‑focused apps, cloud kitchens, and last‑mile delivery.

The future of food in the GCC isn't about importing more; it's about innovating faster.

Watch the Full IMAP GCC Food Report Video

To explore these themes in more detail, watch the full IMAP video here featuring Rajan Gupta, Managing Director at Alpen Capital - IMAP GCC. The video delves into how the GCC Food market is changing and what companies can do now to capitalise on this promising opportunity.

You can also read the full Food report y Alpen Capital - IMAP GCC and find out where the next opportunities lie across the GCC Food sector.