The Rise of meat alternatives in the Middle East: From Traditional Dishes to Modern Innovations
In the past years, meat substitutes have gained popularity in the Middle East, especially in the UAE, driven by rising consumer interest. “The quality of plant-based dining in food and beverage outlets has greatly improved in the UAE, encouraging more people to try meat-free meals,” says Prince Khaled to WIRED MIDDLE EAST . “Previously, finding good plant-based options, including Beyond Meat products, was challenging. Now, the market has responded to the demand, making these options more accessible for both home cooking and dining out.”
A report from consulting firm AT Kearney highlighted that companies making meat alternatives could significantly disrupt the global meat industry, which is worth billions. The study predicted that by 2040, most meat consumed by humans will come from plant-based sources or lab-grown meat, rather than from slaughtered animals. Major food brands are also increasing their efforts to create meat alternatives to compete with companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods.
“In the past year, there’s been a significant increase in fitness professionals in the region promoting plant-based proteins. This topic wasn’t widely discussed in the fitness community before, but now it’s gaining traction, even on social media,” says Prince Khaled, who is also the president of the Saudi Humane Society.
Vegan advocate Prince Khaled
Key Players and Innovations
Several key players are driving the meat alternatives industry in the UAE. For instance, IFFCO Group's THRYVE factory in Dubai Industrial City is one of the region's first full-scale facilities dedicated to producing plant-based meat products. This factory utilizes cutting-edge technologies to create nutritious meat alternatives inspired by local flavors.
Another notable player is Switch Foods, a homegrown food-tech startup based in Abu Dhabi. Switch Foods produces a range of plant-based meat products, including kebabs, kafta, sujuk, minced meat, and burger patties, all of which are halal-certified and vegan.
Market Forecast
The market for meat alternatives in the UAE is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to recent research, the plant-based meat market in the region is projected to grow at an annual rate of 7.06% from 2024 to 2029, reaching a market volume of approximately $25.74 million by 2029. This growth is driven by increasing consumer awareness of the health and environmental benefits of plant-based diets, as well as the UAE government's support for sustainable food production.
Conclusion
The rise of meat alternatives factories in the UAE marks a significant shift towards more ethical, sustainable and health-conscious food choices. These factories are not only meeting the growing demand for plant-based products but are also contributing to the global movement towards more sustainable food systems. With continued innovation and support, the UAE is poised to become a leader in the meat alternatives industry, setting an example for other regions to follow.