Saudi Arabia Rice Market Overview, 2030

Saudi Arabia’s rice market is one of the most important segments of the country’s food industry, driven by both domestic consumption and high import demand. Rice is a staple food in Saudi Arabia, consumed in nearly every household, and forms a crucial part of traditional dishes. Despite the country’s limited agricultural capacity, which is largely due to its arid climate and water scarcity, rice remains an essential part of the Saudi diet. The country’s food consumption trends are highly influenced by the large expatriate population, particularly from South Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. Saudi Arabia’s population has increasingly diversified, with significant numbers of Indian, Pakistani, Filipino, and other Asian expatriates, all of whom have a high consumption rate of rice. The demand for rice is, therefore, driven by these communities, who favor varieties like basmati rice, jasmine rice, and other long-grain varieties. Traditional Saudi dishes such as kabsa, which features rice as a primary ingredient, further reinforce the importance of rice in the country’s food culture. The kingdom’s reliance on imported rice is significant, as the country sources its rice from countries such as India, Pakistan, Thailand, and Vietnam, among others. As one of the largest importers of rice in the region, Saudi Arabia’s rice market has seen steady growth over the years, driven by both population growth and a flourishing foodservice industry.

According to the research report, ""Saudi Arabia Rice Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Rice Market is anticipated to add to more than USD 940 Billion by 2025–30. The rice market in Saudi Arabia has evolved with changing consumer preferences, particularly with an increasing focus on healthier food options. As consumers become more health-conscious, there is a growing demand for organic, whole-grain, and basmati rice, which are perceived as healthier alternatives to more processed rice varieties. Brown rice, organic rice, and other whole-grain options are being increasingly preferred for their nutritional benefits, including higher fiber content and lower glycemic index. These rice varieties are particularly sought after by those who are aware of the health implications of processed foods and seek to include more nutritious ingredients in their daily meals. In addition to brown and organic rice, there is also an increased demand for gluten-free rice-based products, which has been fueled by the rise in gluten sensitivity and awareness of gluten-related health issues in the region. Rice-based products such as rice noodles, rice flour, and rice cakes are increasingly being introduced to cater to the growing demand for gluten-free and low-glycemic alternatives. The increasing health-consciousness of Saudi consumers reflects a broader global trend, and rice producers and distributors are taking note, offering products that cater to specific dietary needs. Additionally, the demand for healthier rice products is amplified by the Kingdom’s Vision 2030, which emphasizes promoting healthier lifestyles and enhancing food security in the country. With the government focusing on improving the overall health and wellness of its population, healthier rice options are becoming more prominent in supermarkets and foodservice establishments across Saudi Arabia.

The rice market in Saudi Arabia is segmented based on grain size, distribution channels, and applications, each of which plays a significant role in shaping consumer preferences and market trends. Grain size is one of the key determinants in Saudi Arabia’s rice consumption patterns. Long-grain rice is the most widely consumed variety in the country, favored for its fluffy texture and ability to remain separate when cooked, which is essential for dishes such as kabsa and mandi. Basmati rice, a long-grain variety from India and Pakistan, is particularly popular in Saudi Arabia due to its aromatic fragrance and delicate texture. The demand for basmati rice has remained strong over the years, with many consumers preferring it over other varieties for both its cooking properties and its distinct flavor. This preference for basmati rice has resulted in a significant market share for the variety, and its consumption is associated with special occasions, family gatherings, and festive meals. Medium-grain rice is also consumed in Saudi Arabia, though its popularity is not as high as that of long-grain varieties. Medium-grain rice is often used in dishes that require a creamier texture, such as rice puddings and other traditional desserts. Short-grain rice, which is typically used in sushi and other Asian-inspired dishes, has a smaller market share in Saudi Arabia, but it is slowly gaining popularity among expatriates and in certain restaurants serving international cuisines.

Distribution channels in the Saudi rice market are diverse, with both offline and online retailing playing significant roles. Traditional retail outlets, such as hypermarkets, supermarkets, and grocery stores, dominate the distribution of rice. Leading hypermarkets like Carrefour, Panda, and Tamimi Markets stock a wide variety of rice products, from budget-friendly brands to premium basmati and organic rice. These retail outlets cater to the broad range of consumer preferences, offering rice in various packaging sizes, catering to different price points. The growth of modern retail formats has made it easier for consumers to access an extensive range of rice products, ensuring that both local and international rice brands are well represented. Additionally, supermarkets are increasingly offering specialty rice products, such as gluten-free rice, organic rice, and rice-based snacks, to cater to the growing health-conscious segment of the population. In recent years, online distribution channels have also gained significant traction, providing consumers with the convenience of shopping from home. E-commerce platforms such as Souq.com, Amazon, and online stores of hypermarkets have made it easier for consumers to purchase a wide range of rice products. The growth of e-commerce in Saudi Arabia has been further accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, as consumers increasingly turned to online shopping for their groceries. Online shopping offers convenience, product variety, and competitive prices, making it an attractive option for busy consumers. The rise of food delivery apps in Saudi Arabia, such as HungerStation and UberEats, has also contributed to the expansion of the rice market, as more consumers purchase ready-to-eat rice dishes from restaurants and foodservice providers through these platforms.

Rice consumption in Saudi Arabia spans both residential and commercial applications. In the residential market, rice is an essential ingredient in the everyday diet of Saudi households. Traditional dishes such as kabsa, mandi, and jareesh all prominently feature rice as the main ingredient. Kabsa, a spiced rice dish served with lamb, chicken, or fish, is particularly popular and is considered the national dish of Saudi Arabia. Rice is also used in a variety of desserts, such as rice pudding (ruz bil haleeb), which is a favorite among families. In addition to local dishes, the diverse expatriate population in Saudi Arabia contributes to the consumption of rice-based dishes from other parts of the world. Indian, Pakistani, and Filipino communities, for example, use rice to prepare dishes such as biryani, pilaf, and fried rice, which have also become popular in Saudi households. In the commercial sector, rice is an important ingredient in the foodservice industry, where it is used in a wide range of catering, hotel, and restaurant offerings. The foodservice industry in Saudi Arabia plays a key role in driving rice consumption, particularly in large gatherings, banquets, and festive events. Hotels and restaurants, especially those offering traditional Saudi and regional cuisines, rely heavily on rice as a central ingredient. The growing popularity of international cuisines in the country has also led to an increase in the consumption of rice in dishes such as sushi, rice bowls, and fried rice. Additionally, the catering sector in Saudi Arabia, which serves corporate events, weddings, and religious festivals, also contributes to the high demand for rice-based dishes. As rice continues to be an essential component of both residential and commercial meals, it remains a key player in the Saudi food market.


Considered in this report
• Historic Year: 2019
• Base year: 2024
• Estimated year: 2025
• Forecast year: 2030

Aspects covered in this report
• Rice Market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Red Rice
• Black Rice
• Grain Fragrance Rice( Basmati and Jasmine Rice)
• Brown Rice
• Grain Parboiled Rice
• Sushi Rice
• Others (Rosematta Rice, Arborio Rice)

By Grain Size
• Long Grain
• Medium Grain
• Short Grain

By Distribution Channel
• Offline Stores
• Online Stores

By Application
• Residential
• Commercial

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary as well as secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and listing out the companies that are present in the market. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual report of companies, analyzing the government generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources primary research was conducted by making telephonic interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducted trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this we have started doing primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting consumers in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us we have started verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations & organizations related to agriculture industry, government bodies and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing & presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.