The United Arab Emirates Ice Cream Market is estimated at USD 234.18 million in 2022 and is expected to reach at 410.87 million by 2030 growing at a CAGR of 7.28% for the forecast period between 2023 and 2030. Due to the United Arab Emirates' subtropical dry environment, which features lengthy hot summers and brief warm winters, ice cream is one of the country's most popular frozen treats. As a result, expats, visitors, and locals consume it all year long. New ice-cream flavours and types have been introduced owing in great part to the efforts of numerous ice-cream producers. Also, it is anticipated that the expansion of the restaurant and tourism industries would aid in the expansion of the nation's ice cream market.
New and innovative ice cream concepts such as plant-based ice cream pops, keto bars that bring low carbs treat and dairy free ingredients in ice creams have made it a popular choice among the population that is highly health conscious or are allergic to dairy products. Impulse ice creams will continue to dominate the UAE ice cream market with more than 50% of the total market share followed by take home ice creams during the forecast period.
Growing Cold Storage Infrastructure
The world's ice cream industry has been developing dramatically, in large part due to the fast-expanding cold storage infrastructure. Food rotting during storage and transit is reduced, thanks to the cold storage facilities. The development of active refrigeration transport systems and mobile refrigeration systems has been extremely important for the storage and movement of ice cream products. Perishable items like ice cream are transported from the producing facility to refrigerated warehouses using mobile refrigeration equipment. These goods are kept in low temperatures in the refrigerated warehouses along with other perishable goods.
Throughout the forecast period, the development of cold chain systems in UAE is anticipated to play a significant role in boosting the ice cream market. Since the UAE is primarily dependent on food imports, a vast network of cold chains and cold storage facilities has been established. The expansion of the ice cream sector has been supported by expansive cold chains and cold warehouses to keep perishable items like ice cream.
Rise in Demand for Lactose-Free and Gluten-Free Ice Creams
One of the main carbohydrates in milk from dairy animals is lactose. The illness known as lactose intolerance, which affects many people, is characterised by a partial inability to digest the sugar (lactose) contained in dairy products. Due to the body's inability to produce lactase, it is typically brought on by a deficiency in that enzyme. The demand for gluten and lactose-free products, including ice cream, has increased due to the rising prevalence of lactose intolerance worldwide.
The market for vegan, lactose- and gluten-free ice cream flavours based on various milk replacements, like almond milk and coconut milk, has been further stimulated by the fast-growing veganism trend. Throughout the projection period, there is anticipated to be a significant increase in demand for gluten- and lactose-free ice cream products due to the rising prevalence of lactose intolerance in the UAE. According to World Health Organization (WHO), nearly one-third of the Middle East people suffers severs lactose intolerance.
Impact of COVID-19 on United Arab Emirates Ice Cream Market
Because of lockdowns, travel restrictions, and business closures, the COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on the economies and industries of many different nations. Additionally, the United Arab Emirates imposed a nationwide lockdown that forced the closure of eateries, shopping centres, retail stores, and manufacturing facilities. This had a negative impact on the food and beverage sector, including the production of ice cream. Also, the pandemic has resulted in a rise in panic buying and consumer misunderstanding, which has disturbed the UAE's usual estimates of demand for food and beverage products. While categories like ice creams and confectionaries saw declines of 30–35%, the demand for long-shelf-life items increased by 20–25%. With the lockdown being relaxed and supermarkets, malls, and other retail establishments reopening, the economy is improving. Furthermore, a number of ice cream manufacturing businesses are starting up again in the UAE.
Report Scope:
“United Arab Emirates Ice Cream Market Assessment, Opportunities, and Forecast, 2016-2030F”, is a comprehensive report by Markets and Data, providing in-depth analysis and assessment of the current state of affairs of the Ice Cream market in United Arab Emirates, industry dynamics and challenges. The report includes market size, segmental shares, growth trends, COVID-19, opportunities, and forecasts (2023-2030). Additionally, the report profiles the leading players in the industry mentioning their respective market share, business model, competitive intelligence, etc.