Middle East Flour Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Type (Gluten Containing Flour [All Purpose Flour {Flour No. 2, Patent Flour, and Others}, Atta Flour {Flour No. 2, Multigrain and Others}], Gluten Free Flour [Almond Flour, Coconut Flour, Chickpea Flour, Rice Flour, Corn Flour, and Others], and Flour Premixes [Cake Mix, Cookie Mix, Bread Mix, and Others]), By Nature (Organic and Conventional), By Distribution Channel (Retail [Supermarkets/ Hypermarkets, Convenience Stores, Online Retailers, and Others] and Food Service), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The Middle East flour market size was valued at USD 16.19 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 16.85 billion in 2025 to USD 22.56 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.26% during the forecast period. 

Flour is a fine, powdery ingredient that is used to make cakes and bread. It is usually made by grinding wheat or other grains. The most common type is wheat flour, which is the main ingredient in bread, a staple food for many cultures. Middle East’s flour consumption is primarily dominated by Turkey, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia, which hold the largest market shares. The UAE is noted for its high consumption rates, while Saudi Arabia and Israel are expected to witness promising growth during the forecast period.

Furthermore, the rapid population growth across the region, coupled with urbanization, has led to increasing demand for staple foods, such as bread, bakery products, noodles, and other flour-based products. The expanding urban population also leads to a greater reliance on processed and convenience foods that require flour as a primary ingredient. These factors have collectively contributed to the overall market growth.

Some of the prominent flour manufacturers include Agthia Group PJSC, Ulusoy Flour Mills, Oman Flour Mills S.A.O.G, and First Mills.

MARKET DYNAMICS

Market Drivers

Rising Popularity of Bakery Products among Consumers to Foster the Market Growth

Bakery items hold substantial cultural importance in the Middle East, with traditional foods, such as pita bread, flatbreads, and savory pastries, being staples in many households. According to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food in Canada, retail sales of baked goods in the UAE reached USD 671.7 million in 2022. The strong cultural ties to these products ensure a consistent demand for flour, as they are integral for daily meals and festive occasions. The adoption of Western dietary habits has led to a rise in the consumption of baked goods such as cakes, cookies, and pastries. This trend is particularly popular among younger consumers, who are more inclined to try new products and flavors, thereby increasing the demand for flour used in these baked items.

Growing Demand for Gluten-free Products Boosts the Market Growth

Recently, there has been an increase in the diagnosis of celiac disease and gluten sensitivity across the region. According to the study published by the College of Medicine, Alfaisal University, Riyadh, in Saudi Arabia, celiac disease has the highest prevalence among the general adult population, which is around 3.2%, where women have a higher prevalence of celiac disease than men. The broader health and wellness movement, increasing product innovation, expanding retail distribution, and growing demand for dietary alternatives have led many consumers to consume gluten-free products as healthier alternatives. This shift in consumer perception is fueling demand for gluten-free flour and related products as part of a balanced diet.

MARKET RESTRAINTS

Agricultural Limitations Significantly Restricts the Market Growth

The region faces significant agricultural limitations due to its dry climate and water scarcity. These conditions limit local wheat production, making it difficult to achieve self-sufficiency in flour supply. Extreme weather events and changing climatic conditions further exacerbates these challenges, impacting crop yields and agricultural sustainability. According to the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change & Environment, the UAE is located in an arid zone, where the desert environment accounts for more than three-quarters of the country's total area. The country is characterized by high temperatures, low rainfall, poor soil, and lack of natural waterways, affecting the country's agricultural sector.

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Adoption of Modern Technologies in Flour Milling to Expand the Production Capabilities

The adoption of modern technologies in flour milling is revolutionizing the industry, enabling mills to expand their production capabilities and meet the evolving demands of consumers. Flour milling in the region has transitioned from traditional stone mills to sophisticated automated roller mills. These modern mills use computerized systems that optimize the milling process, leading to higher efficiency, better product quality, and increased production capacity. For instance, in August 2019, Al Hazaa Investment Group, one of the leading players in the Middle East's flour milling industry, expanded its operations in Egypt with the addition of a second flour mill. The new mill has a flour production capacity of 460 tonnes per day, bringing the total flour production capacity of the two mills to 920 tonnes per day with an extraction rate of 72%. As the industry continues to evolve, the integration of advanced technologies will be crucial for mills to remain competitive and meet the changing requirements of consumers.

MIDDLE EAST FLOUR MARKET TRENDS

Growing Popularity of Functional and Clean Label Products to Fuel Market Growth

Consumers are increasingly adopting healthier lifestyles, leading to a surge in the demand for functional flours that offer enhanced nutritional benefits, such as higher protein content and lower fat levels. This shift is particularly notable among individuals with dietary restrictions, including individuals with celiac disease, who seek gluten-free options. This awareness is further fueled by the increasing prevalence of lifestyle-related health issues, such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases, which has led consumers to seek out healthier alternatives. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 34% of deaths caused by non-communicable diseases in the Middle East are due to cardiovascular diseases. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated this trend as consumers seek products that support their health and well-being.

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IMPACT OF COVID-19

The COVID-19 pandemic had a significant impact on the Middle East flour market growth, both positive and negative. The pandemic had caused an economic slowdown in the Middle East, with declines in oil production, tourism, and remittances. This reduced consumer spending power impacted the demand for flour and other food products. With restaurants, cafes, and bakeries closed or operating at reduced capacity, the demand for flour from the food service sector declined sharply.

The Middle East region has been reliant on wheat imports to meet its flour demand, with many countries importing a substantial portion of their grain. The pandemic exacerbated this dependency as disruptions in global supply chains led to increased imports of wheat.

However, the pandemic has significantly impacted the market, creating various opportunities for growth and adaptation. The pandemic accelerated the adoption of e-commerce and online food delivery services. Flour companies were benefited by this trend as they enhanced their online presence and distribution channels, making it easier for consumers to access their products.

SEGMENTATION ANALYSIS

By Type

Gluten Containing Flour Segment Leads Due to Wide Availability and Affordability

On the basis of type, the flour market is segmented into gluten-containing flour, gluten-free flour, and flour premixes.

The gluten-containing flour segment is expected to dominate the market. Wheat-based products, particularly bread, are integral to Middle Eastern cuisine. Traditional foods such as pita, flatbreads, and various pastries rely heavily on gluten for their texture and elasticity. This cultural preference ensures a sustained demand for gluten-containing flours. The economic accessibility of wheat flour compared to alternatives also plays a significant role in its dominance. Wheat flour is often seen as a cost effective staple food source, making it more prevalent than gluten-free options, which can be more expensive and less accessible, thus contributing to the segmental growth.

The gluten-free flour segment is the fastest-growing segment in the market. The region's evolving lifestyles, including dietary changes influenced by globalization, have contributed to a growing popularity of gluten-related health issues. As more people are getting awared about the adverse effects of gluten, they are opting for gluten-free alternatives. Rapid urbanization in the Middle East has led to changing dietary patterns, with more people relying on processed and convenience foods. Flour premixes fit well within this trend, providing an easy solution for busy urban residents.

By Nature

Conventional Segment Secured Prominent Position Due to Wide Economic Viability

On the basis of nature, the market is distributed into organic and conventional.

The conventional segment is expected to hold a major share of the flour market. The conventional flour segment's dominance in the market is reinforced by its established role in traditional baking and cooking practices, alongside the growing interest in health-oriented products that include functional variants. The economic viability of conventional flour production, including lower costs compared to specialty flour, makes it an attractive option for both consumers and manufacturers. This financial factor supports its continued dominance in the market despite the growing interest in alternative flour.

The organic segment is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period. The organic flours segment in the Middle East is driven by increasing health consciousness, the gluten-free trend, government support for organic farming, and the westernization of diets, which are leading to increased demand for organic packaged foods. These factors are expected to continue fueling the growth of the organic flour market in the region.

By Distribution Channel

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Food Service Emerged as Dominant Segment Owing to High Usage in the Food Service Industry

The market by distribution channel is distributed into retail (supermarkets/ hypermarkets, convenience stores, online retailers, and others) and food service.

The food service segment dominates the market. The demand for bread and bakery products predominantly drives the market. This segment is critical as bread is a staple food in many Middle East countries, with various traditional types consumed daily. The commercial segment, particularly bakeries and food service operators, significantly influence this demand. The increasing number of food service establishments, coupled with rising disposable incomes and changing consumer preferences toward convenience foods, has led to a surge in flour consumption. Urbanization and exposure to Western culinary practices further enhance this trend as consumers increasingly seek baked goods and fast food options.

The retail channel for flour in the Middle East is projected to experience significant growth owing to an increasing inclination toward convenience and ready-to-eat foods, which is reshaping consumer behavior. As more consumers seek easy-to-prepare meals, the demand for flour-based products, such as baked goods and snacks, is rising. This trend is particularly evident in urban areas where fast-paced lifestyles prevail. The proliferation of supermarkets and hypermarkets enhances consumer access to a variety of flour products. These retail giants offer a comprehensive selection, catering to diverse consumer needs and preferences, which is crucial for driving sales in the market.

MIDDLE EAST FLOUR MARKET REGIONAL OUTLOOK

Geographically, the market is segmented into countries including Israel, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, UAE, and the rest of the Middle East.

Turkey

Turkey leads the market and held the largest flour market share at 27.54% in 2024. Self-sufficiency in wheat plays a crucial role in Turkey's flour industry, contributing significantly to its position as a leading global exporter. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), Turkey’s wheat production increased from 17,250 (000 tons) in 2022/2023 to 21,000 (000 tons) in 2023/2024. This self-sufficiency in wheat enables Turkish flour mills to utilize high-quality domestic grains, which are essential for producing various flour types that meet international standards. The ability to blend imported wheat for specific quality enhancements ensures that Turkish flour remains competitive globally.

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Saudi Arabia

The demand for flour in Saudi Arabia is driven by several key factors that reflect both socio-economic trends and consumer preferences. The privatization of flour mills in Saudi Arabia has significantly transformed the market landscape, reflecting broader economic reforms and strategic goals. Additionally, the privatization of state-owned flour mills has also fostered competition and efficiency within the industry. This shift has allowed private companies to innovate and diversify their product offerings, catering to evolving consumer preferences while enhancing overall market dynamics.

UAE

The UAE is a major flour-importing country, primarily due to its inability to meet domestic demand through local production alone. According to the Agricultural Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, around 92% of UAE’s wheat imports are raw products in the form of wheat products such as flour, pasta, and couscous. UAE government implements price control measures to stabilize flour prices in the local market, which helps mitigate effects of global price volatility. This system supports consumer affordability and access to essential food products such as flour.

Israel

Israel is known to be a major importer of wheat flour, and only a small percentage of it is produced on a domestic level; however, its role in the regional market is significant. Wheat flour is a staple in Israel and is used mainly in bread, baked goods, and other food products.

Qatar

In Qatar, the demand for flour is driven by factors such as a growing immigrant population, a strong disposable economy, and an influx of tourists. The country’s strong economy and its major role as a global trade hub further contribute to higher consumption of food products, including flour.

Recently, increasing number of consumers in the country are looking for substitutes for white flour, as these are considered less healthy than whole wheat or other products.

Rest of the Middle East

The rest of the Middle East is experiencing rapid population growth and urbanization, which significantly increases the demand for flour-based products. Urban areas such as Egypt, Morocco, Kuwait, and Oman in the Middle East are experiencing rapid growth due to increase in tourism. This urbanization leads to changes in dietary habits, with rising preference for convenience foods that utilize flour as a primary ingredient. Egypt is known to be one of the major wheat consumers as large quantities of wheat are imported annually to meet its high demand. The high wheat consumption in the country is further driven by subsidized bread programs, increasing demand for baked products and cereals, and a large population demanding for the product. According to the Central Agency for Public Mobilization and Statistics, in Egypt, sales of cereals and baked products increased by 14.2% in February 2024 compared to the February, 2023.

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Market Players

Market Leaders are Embarked on Base Expansion, Followed by Increasing Participation in Food Exhibitions

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The market is fragmented, with a number of large, medium, and small-scale players operating in it. This include Agthia Group PJSC, Ulu soy Flour Mills, Oman Flour Mills S.A.O.G, First Mills, and International Foodstuffs Co. (IFFCO) held nearly 13.96% of the Middle East flour market share in 2024 The prominent players in the market are embarking upon two strategies: base expansion, followed by increasing participation in food exhibitions to expand their flour offerings and strengthen their presence in the region. Companies are also actively launching new products in order to enhance their market presence. For instance, in December 2023, Modern Mills Company SJSC, one of the biggest Flour and Animal Feed manufacturers in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, launched a new range of gluten-free flour as part of its growing diverse portfolio of nutrition products.

LIST OF KEY MIDDLE EAST FLOUR MARKET COMPANIES PROFILED

• Agthia Group PJSC (Abu Dhabi)
• Arabian Mills (Saudi Arabia)
• Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods, Inc. (U.S.)
• First Mills (Saudi Arabia)
• Green Farm (UAE)
• International Foodstuffs Co. (IFFCO) (UAE)
• Kuwait Flour Mills & Bakeries Company (Kuwait)
• Oman Flour Mills S.A.O.G (Oman)
• Qatar Flour Mills (Qatar)
• Ulusoy Flour Mills (Turkey)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• March 2025: Guri, an Israel-based company, launched a new category of flour made from  5 types of flours made from 100% vegetables. The new product is gluten-free, preservative-free, and vegan.
• January 2025: First Milling Company (First Mills), one of the leading players in Saudi Arabia’s flour milling industry, invested USD 32.76 million in the construction of a new flour milling unit, Mill C, at its Al Qassim plant. The investment would help boost the flour production capacity significantly.
• October 2024: Union Coop collaborated with Sharjah Agriculture & Livestock Production EST. (Ektifa), and launched new organic products, including Saba Sanabel flour and milk from Mleiha Dairy. These new products were made available across Dubai.
• June 2024: First Mills secured a USD 39.98 million financing facility from the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF). This funding will be directed toward restructuring working capital and enhancing the company's business operations.
• April 2024: First Mills commenced commercial operations at its new Durum Mill located in its factory in Jeddah. This mill was a significant decision as it is the first of its kind in Saudi Arabia, designed to produce semolina for pasta, sweets, and other products.
• February 2024: International Foodstuffs Co. (IFFCO) announced its participation in the upcoming Gulfood exhibition at the Dubai World Trade Centre. The company would showcase its leading brands, such as Al Baker, London Dairy, Tiffany, Noor, and others.

INVESTMENT ANALYSIS AND OPPORTUNITIES

Diverse Product Range and Technological Innovations to Provide Market Opportunity

Nowadays, there is increasing interest in specialty flours, including almond, coconut, and quinoa flour. Investors have potential areas to explore in these niche markets, particularly with health trends shaping consumer patterns. The utilization of online platforms as a mode of sales and distribution is increasingly becoming popular. Companies that make use of e-commerce are further able to widen their market reach and operational efficiency.

REPORT COVERAGE

The market research report includes a market overview as well as quantitative and qualitative insights. It also offers a detailed analysis of the market sizing and growth rate for all possible segments. Various key insights presented in the report are an overview of related markets, competitive landscape, recent industry developments such as mergers & acquisitions, the regulatory scenario in critical countries, and market trends.

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REPORT SCOPE AND SEGMENTATION