The fast food market size in the Middle East and Africa is estimated to be worth USD 44.52 billion by 2029 from USD 39.54 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 2.92% from 2024 to 2029.
Fast food alludes to food that is effectively and immediately prepared; however, it refers to food that is set up from precooked or preheated parts and then packed and sold in stores or eateries. Fast food is bulk-delivered food and any food that is set up in less time is called fast food. Fast food is renowned in view of its lower costs, comfort and tastes. In any case, fast food is made with fewer quality items, which makes them undesirable and less nutritious.
According to studies, the number of fast food outlets in the Middle East is expected to see a surge of 4.3% annually in the next 5 years timeline. The growing working population in the Middle East and Africa is promoting the demand for convenient and quick meal options, which is propelling the growth of the MEA fast food market. For instance, as per the statistics published by the International Labour Organization (ILO), the working-age population in the Middle East and Africa is expected to reach 1.5 billion by 2025.
The lifestyles and tastes and preferences of people across the Middle East and African region have been changing over the last few years. The expansion of popular food chains in the MEA region is contributing to this trend and propelling the regional market growth. For instance, as per Ernst & Young's report, the Middle East and Africa experienced an investment of USD 2.6 billion in the F&B sector. The growing awareness of health among consumers and rising preference for healthier yet tasty food options are favoring regional market expansion.
On the other hand, the side effects associated with the consumption of fast food are hindering the growth of the fast food market in the Middle East and Africa. Concerns about the health effects of fast food, such as overweight and obesity have been causing some people to switch to healthier alternatives and this shift is affecting the regional market growth. In addition, high operating costs and rising health consciousness among consumers are further impeding the growth rate of the fast food market in the Middle East and Africa.
Of these, the pizza/pasta segment is foreseen to hold the major share of the Middle East and Africa fast food market during the forecast period.
Nevertheless, the burger/sandwich segment is anticipated to account for a noteworthy share of the MEA fast food market during the forecast period.
The Middle East holds the major share of the Middle East and African fast food market during the forecast period owing to the presence of a population with busy lifestyles, rising preference for convenient food options, and the availability of healthier menu options in fast-food restaurants. On the other hand, Africa is anticipated to register a healthy CAGR in the MEA fast food market during the forecast period. Factors such as favourable demographics, increased urbanization, and widespread adoption of Western culture in Africa are boosting the African fast food market growth.
The fast food market is thriving in Saudi Arabia. The growing youth population, rapid urbanization and increasing disposable incomes are major contributors to the growth of the Saudi Arabian industry. In addition, as per research, one in three young people in the country eat fast food over two times a week, raising concerns that the region's swift economic progress is resulting in significant shifts in dietary habits. Moreover, about 85 per cent of Saudi Arabian young residents said to like fast foods to home-made meals. A cross-sectional survey was carried out on kids between 11 and 18 years of age for food intake and incidence of fast-food consumption in a usual week which discovered that 28.5 per cent of attendees consume fast food twice a week with a larger portion of male students i.e. 32.8 per cent being regular customers. And females accounted for 24.8 per cent. Further, students with the biggest monthly household income i.e. SAR 21000 and more were discovered to have a considerably higher consumption rate of fast food aside from those having a reduced income.
The United Arab Emirates is considered as a hub for fast food chains. The presence of a multicultural population and a high number of expatriates are contributing to the growing consumption of fast food items in the UAE and propelling the UAE market expansion. Besides this, Dubai people are price-sensitive in terms of eating out, favouring fast food over fine dining and other drive-ins like all-day and relaxed dining. This inclination for cheapness strengthens the notable place of the fast food industry in Dubai’s catering market. According to a study, there are more than 26795 cafes and restaurants with each providing something different. Moreover, the Abu Dhabi region has the greatest number of restaurants and cafes in the UAE, Dubai is in second place and Sharjah Province at third. Moreover, over 8881 restaurants are present in Abu Dhabi and cafes, Dubai has above 8726 and the Sharjah area has 3541. Further, the province of Umm al-Quwain has the least populace of eateries and cafes with 564 counts succeeded by the Fujairah region with 1096 cafes and restaurants.
Qatar is also a notable fast food market and is capitalizing on the nation’s economic progress, increasing spending power and shifting customer behaviour. Likewise, in May 2024, Jasmi, a popular Bahrain fast-food chain, and West Walk entered into a partnership for the Qatar industry. The regional market share was boosted significantly by the successful organisation of the FIFA Football World Cup. Apart from this, the market player has been investing substantial money in tourism operations, which has surged the volume of travellers to the nations. Visitors usually prefer comfort and fast eating choices, making quick-service restaurants a famous option. Besides this, cloud kitchen joints are expected to witness a rapid rise in the market at a higher pace during the estimation period. The country’s market size surged because of the growth of food delivery websites and platforms and mobile ordering, and customers are demanding more handy and quick ways to approach their favourite meals. For example, In May 2024, Pickl, the latest burger shop in the city is entering with the newest, delicious and fully personalizable ‘bespoke’ burgers, for food lovers at West Walk. It provides new, quick, foodstuff, and an innovative menu including fried-chicken Sandos, shakes, plant-based burgers and smashed burgers all without any additives.
South Africa is expected to showcase a healthy CAGR in the Middle East and Africa market during the forecast period. The rising preference for fast food from urban dwellers and working professionals and the presence of global food chains and local brands to address the various tastes and preferences of consumers are driving the South African fast food market. Moreover, the country has about more than 850 franchises, approximately 85000 restaurants, and a massive demand for Indigenous merged with the international food industry. Additionally, several South African market players like Nando’s and Steers, give an innovative flavour profile that is not generally discovered in other fast food chains. This has assisted them in differentiating and attracting a broad range consumer base delivering the regional palette worldwide.
Companies playing a key role in the Middle East and Africa fast food market include Domino's Pizza, Burger King, KFC, Subway, Dunkin' Donuts, McDonald's, Hardee's, Pizza Hut, Firehouse Subs and Auntie Anne's.
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