Growing Demand for Frozen Desserts Bolsters GCC Ice Cream Market Growth
According to our latest study on "GCC Ice Cream Market Size and Forecast (2021–2031), Regional Growth Opportunity Analysis – by Flavor, Category, Form, and Distribution Channel," the market size is expected to grow from US$ 1.83 billion in 2024 to US$ 2.85 billion by 2031; the GCC ice cream market is estimated to register a CAGR of 6.5% from 2025 to 2031. The report highlights factors driving the growth of the GCC ice cream market and prominent players, along with their developments in the market. Apart from the growth drivers, the report covers the GCC ice cream market trends and their foreseeable impact during the forecast period.
Ice cream stands out among dessert options due to its broad appeal across age groups—from kids to seniors—making it a popular and in-demand product year-round. In the GCC region, the consistently warm climate boosts consumption, establishing ice cream as a sweet indulgence and a way to cool down. Families, especially those in multi-generational households, tend to purchase in larger quantities, while younger consumers influence the market with preferences for innovative and premium offerings..
GCC Ice Cream Market Growth, 2025-2031 (CAGR)
GCC Ice Cream Market Size and Forecast (2021 - 2031), Regional Share, Trend, and Growth Opportunity Analysis Report Coverage: By Flavor (Vanilla, Chocolate, Strawberry, Raspberry, Mango, Blueberry, and Others), Category (Conventional and Sugar-free), Form (Cups and Tubs, Bars and Sticks, Soft Serves and Cones, and Others), Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, Vending Machines, and Others), and Country
GCC Ice Cream Market Growth and Future Trends
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Rising urbanization and increased disposable income fuel demand for indulgent, ready-to-eat products. In response, brands offer tailored options, including child-friendly packaging, adult-focused flavors, and health-oriented choices such as low-fat and non-dairy varieties. In 2024, The Brooklyn Creamery launched a high-protein ice cream bar in the UAE and nearby markets, targeting health-conscious consumers seeking macro-rich treats and portion-controlled formats.
Ice cream's broad generational appeal motivates producers to diversify their offerings and cater to distinct consumer groups. The growth of modern retail and e-commerce in the GCC has improved product accessibility. Marketing strategies for cultural events and seasonal promotions highlight ice cream's everyday relevance. As consumers increasingly seek quality, variety, and experiential eating, ice cream's universal popularity across ages accelerates the GCC ice cream market share.
In the region, particularly among younger consumers, there's a growing interest in non-dairy alternatives driven by health, ethical, and environmental concerns. This shift is influenced by global food trends, increased access to plant-based ingredients, and the rise of flexitarian lifestyles in Dubai, Riyadh, and Doha.
To meet this demand, producers are developing ice cream using coconut, almond, oat, and soy bases to replicate the creamy texture and indulgence of traditional dairy products. In May 2025, Singapore-based Kind Kones introduced its line of plant-based frozen treats in Dubai, marking a key step in expanding vegan ice cream choices. The brand targets millennials and Gen Z consumers across the GCC through online platforms and retail collaborations.
Retailers are allocating dedicated shelf space for dairy-free items, while food delivery platforms are boosting their visibility by introducing plant-based categories. Rising health consciousness and dietary needs stemming from allergies or intolerances are fueling demand for non-dairy frozen treats. Additionally, regulatory backing for clear nutritional labeling and sustainable sourcing is enhancing consumer trust. As priorities shift toward transparency, wellness, and lifestyle compatibility, dairy-free and vegan ice cream is poised to evolve from a niche offering into a mainstream category across the GCC.
The GCC ice cream market analysis has been performed by considering the following segments: flavor, category, form, and distribution channel. Based on flavor, the GCC ice cream market is segmented into vanilla, chocolate, strawberry, raspberry, mango, blueberry, and others. The chocolate segment held the largest share of the GCC ice cream market in 2024. Chocolate ice cream has its position as a globally favored flavor, recognized for its opulent taste, luxurious sensory attributes, and strong consumer loyalty. It is produced by incorporating cocoa powder or chocolate liquor into a base mixture of dairy, sweeteners, and stabilizers, followed by pasteurization, homogenization, and freezing. The flavor's depth and versatility make it a popular option, combined with mix-ins or layered products. The enduring appeal of chocolate, supported by brand loyalty and consistent consumer preference, drives its demand.
By category, the market is bifurcated into conventional and sugar-free. The conventional segment held the largest share of the GCC Ice Cream Market in 2024. Conventional ice cream is produced by blending milk, cream, sugar, and stabilizers, followed by pasteurization, homogenization, and controlled freezing to achieve a smooth, aerated texture. Flavorings and emulsifiers are incorporated to enhance taste and shelf stability. Demand for conventional ice cream is rising due to its broad consumer acceptance, indulgent appeal, and strong brand familiarity. Per form, the market is categorized into cups and tubs, bars and sticks, soft serves and cones, and others. The cups and tubs segment held the largest share of the GCC ice cream market in 2024. Based on distribution channel, the market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, vending machines, and others. The specialty stores segment held the largest share of the GCC ice cream market in 2024. Specialty stores are a preferred retail channel for ice cream, offering curated selections, premium positioning, and personalized customer experiences. These outlets focus on artisanal, organic, or niche products, catering to consumers seeking unique flavors, diet-specific options, or high-quality ingredients. Specialty stores allow brands to showcase innovation, reinforce brand identity, and engage directly with target audiences. Their ability to offer small-batch or seasonal varieties supports exclusivity and repeat visits, strengthening brand loyalty in competitive urban markets.
The GCC ice cream market report presents a dynamic landscape, underpinned by rising consumer affluence, a youthful population, and a consistently warm climate that supports year-round demand. The UAE and Saudi Arabia lead the market owing to rapid urbanization, a strong retail infrastructure, and a growing appetite for premium, international, and health-conscious products. Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia dominated the GCC ice cream market share in terms of revenue in 2024. Saudi Arabia's ice cream market is experiencing a shift in consumer preferences, rising disposable income, and strong government support for domestic food production. Oman contributes to regional momentum, increasing per capita consumption and expanding product availability across supermarkets, convenience stores, and e-commerce platforms. The market benefits from a well-established cold chain network and government investment in food security and retail modernization. In November 2024, the Emirates Group joined the –15?°C Coalition initiative, securing its place as the first airline to bring its expertise to the initiative. The move aims to establish new standards for frozen food logistics, including safer, more efficient air transport of products such as ice cream.
The region's openness to international brands has encouraged a steady influx of global players, while regional producers invest in research and development to enhance competitiveness. Consumer segments are becoming more diversified, with growing interest in functional, sugar-free, and plant-based options. Further, social media influence and lifestyle branding are pivotal in shaping consumer choices and driving impulse purchases. Despite health-related challenges, the market's adaptability, intense retail penetration, and a strong consumer inclination toward indulgent purchases make the GCC lucrative for ice cream manufacturers aiming to scale or innovate.
The GCC ice cream market forecast can help stakeholders plan their growth strategies. General Mills Inc., Unilever plc, Nestle SA, Pure Ice Cream Co LLC (Kwality), Bulla Dairy Foods, Saudia Dairy & Foodstuff Company (SADAFCO), BR IP Holders LLC (Baskin-Robbins), Thrriv LLC, IFFCO Group, and Unikai Foods PJSC are among the prominent players profiled in the GCC ice cream market report. These market players are focusing on providing high-quality products to fulfill customer demand. They are adopting new product launches, capacity expansions, partnerships, and collaborations to stay competitive in the GCC ice cream market.
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