UAE Meat Snacks Market Overview, 2030

The meat snacks are typically ready-to-eat and come in various forms such as jerky, meat sticks, sausages, and meat bars. The UAE has a growing health-conscious population, and meat snacks are viewed as an excellent protein-packed option. Rich in protein, they help consumers maintain muscle mass, support energy levels, and stay fuller for longer, making them an attractive choice for those with an active lifestyle. The UAE’s cuisine includes many meat-based dishes, so consumers are naturally inclined to snack on products like jerky or sausages. With a taste for rich, savory flavors, the popularity of meat snacks is rooted in both cultural and dietary habits. The growing trend of high-protein, low-carb, and low-sugar diets, such as keto and paleo, is driving the popularity of meat snacks in the UAE. These diets are gaining traction due to their perceived health benefits, including weight management, improved metabolism, and enhanced energy levels. As the UAE becomes increasingly health-conscious, consumers are prioritizing snacks that are nutritious and support overall wellness. In the UAE, Brands are innovating with regional twists like spicy za'atar, sumac, and harissa-infused jerky, giving local flavors a modern twist in the meat snack category. Exotic offerings like camel meat jerky and smoked lamb sticks are gaining ground as adventurous eaters seek new, unique experiences in their snacks. There is increasing demand for meat snacks that have minimal processing and contain no artificial additives. This reflects the broader trend in the UAE, where consumers are becoming more aware of the impact of food on their health and the environment. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for locally sourced, ethically raised meats, and products that meet the highest standards of sustainability and quality.

According to the research report ""UAE Meat Snacks Market Overview, 2030,"" published by Bonafide Research, the UAE Meat Snacks market is anticipated to grow at more than 8.34% CAGR from 2025 to 2030. Consumers are willing to pay a premium for locally sourced, ethically raised meats, and products that meet the highest standards of sustainability and quality. The rapid growth of online grocery platforms like Carrefour, Noon, and Amazon UAE is revolutionizing how consumers access meat snacks. E-commerce allows shoppers to explore premium, niche products like wild boar jerky or Venison snacks without leaving the comfort of their homes. Subscription models are also gaining traction, as busy professionals, fitness enthusiasts, and expats look for convenient, regular snack deliveries. The ability to order products directly and have them delivered to the door is changing consumer expectations, pushing meat snacks into the online spotlight. UAE consumers, especially among younger demographics, are becoming more vocal about the ethical sourcing of their food. This means a growing demand for sustainable meat snacks products that come from free-range or grass-fed animals, without any harm to the environment. As the UAE embraces the eco-conscious mindset, the demand for natural, ethically produced snacks continues to rise. Brands that can combine taste, quality, and sustainability will win the hearts (and wallets) of UAE consumers. Products that focus on minimal waste, biodegradable packaging, and locally sourced ingredients are seen as more desirable and align with the UAE’s forward-thinking consumer base. As the market evolves, expect to see more plant-based meat snack alternatives. Although meat snacks dominate, the UAE's growing interest in plant-based diets means that companies may look to introduce vegan jerky or soy-based meat sticks alongside traditional offerings. Flavor innovation will continue to play a key role in differentiation, while premium, gourmet meat snacks will cater to the affluent population's desire for both indulgence and health. The demand for exotic and regionally inspired flavors will continue to rise, with brands introducing unique tastes to cater to diverse consumer preferences. This could include flavors such as Arabic spices, smoked chili, or tandoori.

Jerky is one of the leading meat snack products in the UAE, particularly popular due to its long shelf life and high protein content. Beef jerky, along with lamb jerky (a regional favourite), is widely consumed, thanks to the growing interest in healthy snacking. The demand is fueled by its portability, making it an ideal snack for those with busy, active lifestyles. Additionally, spicy, smoked, and traditional Middle Eastern flavors like za'atar and sumac add a unique twist to jerky, catering to local preferences. Meat sticks and strips are similar to jerky but often come in a more convenient, ready-to-eat format. These products, typically made from beef, chicken, or lamb, are often perceived as a convenient and healthy on-the-go snack. They are gaining popularity among fitness enthusiasts, young professionals, and expats who value protein-rich, low-calorie options. Flavor variety, such as garlic, smoked chili, and barbecue, appeals to the diverse palate of UAE consumers. • Sausages have a strong presence in the UAE meat snacks market, with both traditional varieties and premium options like smoked lamb sausages. These products are particularly popular among locals, as they align with traditional Middle Eastern cuisine, where lamb and beef are staple meats. Gourmet sausages made from free-range or grass-fed meats are becoming increasingly sought after as more consumers demand premium-quality options. Meat bars are emerging as a convenient, protein-packed alternative to traditional granola or energy bars. These bars typically offer a balanced combination of protein and fiber while being low in carbohydrates. The popularity of meat bars is rising in the UAE, particularly with gym-goers, athletes, and health-conscious consumers looking for high-protein, low-carb snacks. The UAE market is also seeing growing interest in innovative meat snack forms such as chunks, bites, chips, and flakes. These bite-sized, often crispy snacks appeal to those who enjoy savory, crunchy snacks but with a higher nutritional value. Broths and pâtés are also gaining niche popularity as gourmet offerings in upscale markets. These products, often paired with sustainable sourcing and clean-label ingredients, are catering to more discerning and ethical consumers looking for indulgence without compromise.

Beef is one of the dominant sources in the UAE's meat snack market, especially for products like jerky, sticks, and sausages. Known for its high protein content and rich flavor, beef-based snacks cater to a wide range of consumers, including fitness enthusiasts and busy professionals seeking convenient snacks. Premium beef snacks made from grass-fed or organic beef are rising in popularity among health-conscious and sustainability-focused consumers. Pork is less common in the UAE due to the country’s Islamic dietary laws, which prohibit pork consumption among Muslims. Pork-free meat snacks are still available, often targeting non-Muslim expats or tourists. While pork-based snacks are not as mainstream, products like pork jerky and pork sausages can still be found in specialty stores and some international grocery chains. particularly chicken and turkey—has become a growing segment in the UAE’s meat snacks market. With its lower fat content compared to beef, poultry-based snacks like chicken jerky and turkey sticks are popular among those seeking healthier snack options. These snacks are particularly appealing to health-conscious consumers and those following low-fat or high-protein diets, including keto and paleo followers. Lamb and goat meat hold a significant place in the UAE’s meat snack market, driven by traditional tastes and cultural preferences. Lamb jerky and goat meat sausages are widely enjoyed, especially among the local Emirati population and those of Middle Eastern and South Asian descent. These meats are integral to regional cuisine, making them a natural fit for snacks that appeal to local tastes. Premium lamb snacks, including smoked lamb and artisanal lamb jerky, are growing in demand, particularly among consumers seeking high-quality and sustainably sourced options.

Chains like Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Spinneys are popular choices for consumers looking for affordable, mainstream meat snacks like jerky, sausages, and meat sticks. Discounted pricing and promotions are key drivers in this channel, appealing to the price-sensitive consumer segment. Consumers who need quick, easy access to protein-packed snacks often purchase from these channels. Due to the fast-paced nature of daily life in the UAE, these stores cater to busy professionals, gym-goers, and travelers. The product selection is usually more limited than hypermarkets but often includes popular snacks like meat bars and poultry sticks, available for quick grabs. Specialty stores focused on gourmet or health-conscious products are increasingly gaining popularity in the UAE market. These stores cater to consumers looking for premium, ethically sourced, and organic meat snacks. Options like grass-fed beef jerky, artisan sausages, and exotic meats such as venison are popular among the UAE’s more discerning consumers. Brands focused on clean-label and sustainably sourced products thrive in this channel. The growth of e-commerce in the UAE has significantly impacted the meat snacks market. Consumers now have the convenience of purchasing snacks through platforms like Amazon UAE, Noon, and Carrefour Online. Online shopping allows consumers to browse a wide range of products, including premium and niche meat snacks like camel jerky and wild boar sausages, without the need to visit physical stores. The convenience of doorstep delivery and the ability to compare prices and reviews make online retailers an essential channel in the UAE market. Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs) and airport retail outlets are additional channels for meat snacks in the UAE, catering to both tourists and locals. QSR chains often sell meat snacks as part of their grab-and-go offerings, especially in popular areas like Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina. Airport and travel retail stores also see a high demand for travel-friendly snacks like jerky and protein bars, appealing to international travelers. These snacks are typically packaged in a way that makes them easy to carry, making them a popular choice for those looking for a quick, protein-packed bite.


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

Aspects covered in this report
• Meat Snacks 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 Product Type
• Jerky
• Sticks & Strips
• Sausages
• Bars
• Others (Chunks, Bites, Chips, Flakes, Broths, Pâtés)

By Source
• Beef
• Pork
• Poultry
• Lamb & Goat
• Others(Salmon & Other Seafood, Exotic Meats (Venison, Bison, Others)

By Sales Channel
• Hypermarkets/Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores & Grocery Stores
• Specialty Stores
• Online Retailers
• Others(Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs), Airport & Travel Retail)

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.