Explore the latest trends, demand drivers and growth opportunitie...
Explore the latest trends, demand drivers and growth opportunities in the Middle East, with in-depth market and data analysis from our in-country field researchers and regional experts.
In 2023, Israel is experiencing a notable surge in the use of digital wallets, largely driven by the rising number of providers and the inherent convenience they offer. The entry of major players like Apple Pay in late 2021 significantly boosted the…
The number of health-conscious consumers is on the rise in the United Arab Emirates. Increasing numbers of local consumers are following a balanced diet, and they are selecting healthy food sources. Edible oils is one of the categories in which…
Players in edible oils continued to face a number of ongoing challenges towards the end of the review period, not least logistical issues created by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The country is the world’s largest exporter of sunflower oil, and…
In 2023, Israel experienced a notable surge in debit card usage as more individuals opted to pay with credit cards instead of cash. The number of debit cards in circulation increased remarkably. Furthermore, the volume of transactions using debit…
In early 2023, the Israeli government is set to mandate Discount Bank to divest its credit card business, Visa Cal, aiming to enhance competition within the credit card market. This move will introduce a new player to the credit market, fostering a…
Retail demand for cooking ingredients and meals continues to grow in the United Arab Emirates. The increase in the expatriate population and the boom in tourism since the easing of pandemic restrictions, are positively impacting retail volume growth…
Cooking ingredients and meals witnessed positive growth in volume terms in 2023, thanks to a trend of easing inflation (particularly during the second half of the year) and an increase in the rate of employment, which together had a positive impact…
Consumer lending in Saudi Arabia is on the upturn, as the Kingdom has generally recovered from the aftereffects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreso, due to consumer behaviour and expenditures unwaveringly affected by the pandemic, along with 15% VAT,…
In 2023, the Bank of Israel implemented a significant benchmark interest rate hike. This resulted in a sharp increase in mortgage payments, impacting individuals who hold mortgages and loans. The aggressive interest rate hikes have escalated mortgage…
Other personal lending continues to be an area of interest in Saudi Arabia, as this category primarily constitutes personal loans taken for medical purposes and travelling. This has been particularly prominent since the end of pandemic restrictions…