Meat in the United Arab Emirates

2020 IMPACT

Foodservice volumes transformed to retail as home consumption increases

In 2020, foodservice and institutional volumes of meat will drop drastically due to the COVID-19 lockdown. This has driven some demand towards retail as home consumption increased during this period.

E-commerce and modern grocery channels benefit as consumers turn away from channels they perceive as less hygienic

COVID-19 created a shift on the distribution channels in meat, reaching a peak in the lockdown period, though this shift was at least partly maintained until the end of 2020. In line with consumers being confined to their homes, e-commerce experienced a boost, benefitting from consumers perceiving it as a safe way to shop whilst limiting their social interactions.

RECOVERY AND OPPORTUNITIES

Poultry production set to increase; pork to remain popular

The poultry production in United Arab Emirates is expected to rise in the forecast period due to the renovation and expansion of an existing poultry farm in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi. In addition, there are an increasing number of players entering the category, leading to a growing trend of promotional offers in hypermarkets and supermarkets.

Sustainability trend to increase interest in low-fat, organic, hormone-free produce

Over the forecast period, it is expected that the health and wellness trend will become increasingly widespread and will penetrate the meat category. Consumers are increasingly becoming aware of the benefits of grass-fed meat, preferring it over grain fed meat, and more consumers are choosing hormone-free, antibiotic-free and organic meat.