Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market Overview

Market Size in 2024 : USD 787 Million

Market Size in 2033: USD 1,061.8 Million

Market Growth Rate 2025-2033: 3%

According to IMARC Group's latest research publication,"Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market Report by Flavor (Vanilla, Chocolate, Fruit, and Others), Category (Impulse Ice Cream, Take-Home Ice Cream, Artisanal Ice Cream), Product (Cup, Stick, Cone, Brick, Tub, and Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Ice Cream Parlors, Online Stores, and Others), and Region 2025-2033", Saudi Arabia ice cream market size reached USD 787 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 1,061.8 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 3% during 2025-2033.

Growth Factors Driving the Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Industry

• Hot Climate Fueling Year-Round Demand

With the desert climate of Saudi Arabia constantly reaching temperatures well above 35 C, the ice cream is an instant measure to cool down. This is a natural demand driver and ensures that it keeps sales constant throughout the years as opposed to cooler areas where people consume less. In 2023, the market reached the volume of 49.3 million liters of ice cream, as the heat customuralizes the people to get a cone or a tub. Ice cream carts and stores, such as Sayaki and Etna artisan gelato, are doing extremely well in the streets, giving an immediate running. Consumption is also increased by the government persuasion of cultural events such as the use of vendors in the festivals, as dictated by National Tourism Strategy. The hot climate and the youthful growing population guarantees that ice cream will always be a need of both the urbanites and pleasure seekers.

• Rising Disposable Income and Premium Preferences

With Saudi Arabia’s economy diversifying, rising disposable incomes are fueling demand for premium ice cream. In 2023, the market was valued at USD 762.6 million, driven by consumers splurging on indulgent treats. Urbanization has expanded modern retail, like hypermarkets, making high-end brands more accessible. Companies like Almarai have leaned into this, launching new flavors like salted caramel in 2024 to cater to sophisticated tastes. The “Made in Saudi” initiative encourages local production, with firms like SADAFCO expanding factories, such as their 1,570 sq m Jeddah facility, to meet demand. As more Saudis seek luxury and quality, premium ice creams are no longer just a treat—they’re a lifestyle choice, reflecting the country’s growing middle class and their appetite for indulgence.

• Government-Led Tourism and Hospitality Boom

The Saudi government’s Vision 2030 plan to diversify from oil is supercharging the hospitality sector, directly boosting ice cream sales. With a goal to attract 100 million tourists by 2030, cultural events and new hotels are popping up, often featuring ice cream vendors. In 2023, the food and beverage sector, including ice cream, made up 30% of retail. SADAFCO’s new Jeddah factory aligns with this push, supporting local production. The tourism surge, with 3.48 million inbound visitors in 2021, means more people are grabbing ice cream at festivals or resorts. This government-backed growth in tourism and dining options ensures ice cream is everywhere, from street carts to high-end restaurants, making it a key player in Saudi Arabia’s evolving food scene.

Emerging Trends in the Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Market

• Health-Conscious and Plant-Based Options

Health trends are reshaping the ice cream market, with demand soaring for low-sugar, dairy-free, and plant-based options. In 2022, 28% of Saudis had lactose intolerance, pushing companies to innovate with almond and coconut milk-based products. Brands like Unilever are rolling out low-fat and vegan lines, tapping into the growing veganism trend. For example, Thrivv launched keto-friendly ice cream in 2021, catering to health-focused consumers. These products appeal to a younger, wellness-driven crowd, especially in urban areas. Retailers are stocking more organic and gluten-free options, with sales of these niche products rising as consumers prioritize healthier indulgence. This shift isn’t just a fad—it’s a response to real dietary needs and changing lifestyles.

• Innovative Flavors and Exotic Experiences

Saudis are craving bold, unique ice cream flavors, moving beyond classics like vanilla and chocolate. Mango-flavored ice cream leads the market, fueled by local production and cultural love for the fruit. Brands like Baskin-Robbins, with over 150 outlets, are introducing adventurous flavors like black pepper and Thai green curry to excite younger consumers. Nitrogen ice cream, made fresh with a dramatic flair, is also gaining traction in urban hubs. In 2024, Almarai launched new formats like ice cream sandwiches and cones, blending innovation with tradition. These creative offerings, often paired with unique presentations like chewy pancakes instead of cones, are driving sales by appealing to a generation eager for Instagram-worthy food experiences.

• E-Commerce and Delivery Surge

Online shopping is transforming how Saudis buy ice cream, with e-commerce platforms and delivery apps making it easier to satisfy cravings. By 2030, over 40% of ice cream sales are expected to come from online channels, driven by younger consumers who value convenience. Platforms like Noon Daily and Shop Kitopi are stocking brands like Thrivv, while hypermarkets offer same-day delivery. The 2023 market saw cups and tubs, ideal for online orders, grow fastest in sales. This trend ties into Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation under Vision 2030, with improved cold chain logistics ensuring quality. As urban lifestyles get busier, online accessibility is turning ice cream from an in-store treat to a doorstep delight, boosting overall market reach.

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Saudi Arabia Ice Cream Industry Segmentation:

The report has segmented the market into the following categories:

Flavor Insights:

• Vanilla
• Chocolate
• Fruit
• Others

Category Insights:

• Impulse Ice Cream
• Take-Home Ice Cream
• Artisanal Ice Cream

Product Insights:

• Cup
• Stick
• Cone
• Brick
• Tub
• Others

Distribution Channel Insights:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Ice Cream Parlors
• Online Stores
• Others

Regional Insights:

• Northern and Central Region
• Western Region
• Eastern Region
• Southern Region

Competitive Landscape:

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape. Competitive analysis such as market structure, key player positioning, top winning strategies, competitive dashboard, and company evaluation quadrant has been covered in the report. Also, detailed profiles of all major companies have been provided.

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Future Outlook

The Saudi Arabia ice cream market is poised for exciting growth, driven by a mix of innovation, cultural shifts, and economic diversification. With a 2023 market value of USD 762.6 million and volume of 49.3 million liters, the industry is set to expand as Vision 2030 fuels tourism and hospitality. Health-focused products, like plant-based and low-sugar options, will likely dominate, with companies like Unilever and SADAFCO investing in these niches. E-commerce is expected to account for over 40% of sales by 2030, supported by better logistics and digital platforms. Local brands like Sawani, backed by the Public Investment Fund, are expanding, while international players like Baskin-Robbins keep innovating with bold flavors. Despite challenges like cold chain costs, the market’s future looks sweet, blending tradition with modern consumer demands.

Research Methodology:

The report employs a comprehensive research methodology, combining primary and secondary data sources to validate findings. It includes market assessments, surveys, expert opinions, and data triangulation techniques to ensure accuracy and reliability.

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