KSA Bottled Water Market Outlook to 2030

KSA Bottled Water Market Overview

• The KSA bottled water market is valued at USD 2 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. The market's growth is primarily driven by rising health consciousness among consumers, increasing demand for clean and safe drinking water, and expanding tourism, especially during Hajj and Umrah seasons. This demand is further fueled by growing urbanization, which has led to higher bottled water consumption, particularly in major cities across Saudi Arabia.
• The dominant cities in the market include Riyadh, Makkah, and the Eastern Province. These regions dominate due to their large population sizes, levels of industrialization, and tourism influx. Makkah, in particular, sees high demand during pilgrimage seasons, while Riyadh and the Eastern Province benefit from large commercial centers, corporate offices, and a higher concentration of affluent consumers who prefer premium water brands.
• Under Saudi Arabias Vision 2030 plan, the government has set ambitious goals to promote water sustainability, which directly impacts the bottled water industry. The National Water Strategy, launched in 2021, aims to reduce water consumption by 30% by 2030 and promote the efficient use of water resources. This initiative encourages companies in the bottled water market to adopt water-saving technologies and sustainable production practices, aligning their operations with national environmental goals.

KSA Bottled Water Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The market is segmented by product type into still water, sparkling water, flavored water, and functional water. Water has a dominant market share under this segmentation, driven by its universal appeal and its role as a staple for daily hydration. It is favored by consumers across all demographics for its affordability and availability in various packaging formats, from small personal bottles to large family-sized containers.

By Packaging Type: The market is further segmented by packaging type into PET bottles, glass bottles, aluminum cans, and carton packaging. PET bottles dominate the market, holding the largest share due to their lightweight, convenience, and widespread use across various product categories. Consumers prefer PET bottles for their durability and ease of transport.

KSA Bottled Water Market Competitive Landscape

The market is dominated by both local and international players. Companies like Nestl Waters and Coca-Colas Aquafina brand have a strong presence, alongside local giants such as Nova and Al Jomaih Bottled Water Company. These players leverage extensive distribution networks, strong brand portfolios, and innovative packaging to maintain their market positions.

KSA Bottled Water Market Analysis

Market Growth Drivers

• Health and Wellness Awareness: As of 2024, Saudi Arabias health-conscious population is steadily increasing, with a growing number of individuals opting for bottled water as a healthy and convenient alternative to sugary beverages. Saudi Arabias healthcare expenditure has increased, a reflection of the governments commitment to promoting healthier lifestyles. This focus on health, combined with the increasing awareness of hydration benefits, has contributed to the rising demand for high-quality, safe bottled water products, particularly among young consumers and working professionals.
• Tourism Growth: The growing tourism sector in Saudi Arabia has significantly boosted the demand for bottled water. In 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed international visitors as part of its Vision 2030 plan to diversify the economy. Tourists and pilgrims visiting holy cities like Mecca and Medina require readily available clean drinking water, which has led to a surge in demand for bottled water across tourist hotspots. This increasing number of visitors, especially during religious festivals, is expected to further drive market growth over the coming years.
• Rising Demand for Premium Water: Saudi Arabia's affluent population, combined with a growing interest in luxury and premium goods, has led to an increase in demand for premium bottled water. As of 2024, there is a noticeable shift towards high-quality, mineral-rich water sourced from natural springs, particularly among the higher-income demographic. Bottled water brands offering added health benefits, including mineral content and sustainable packaging, are gaining traction in the market. This trend toward premiumization is expected to drive growth in this segment of the bottled water market.

Market Challenges

• Environmental Impact of Plastic Waste: The environmental impact of plastic waste has become a challenge for the bottled water market in Saudi Arabia. In 2023, Saudi Arabia generated over 15 million tons of plastic waste, much of which comes from disposable plastic bottles. Despite efforts by the government to encourage recycling, the infrastructure for waste management remains underdeveloped, and the high consumption of bottled water exacerbates this issue.
• Water Resource Management: The scarcity of natural water resources in Saudi Arabia poses a long-term challenge for the bottled water industry. As of 2023, over 80% of the countrys drinking water comes from desalination plants, a process that is both energy-intensive and costly. This reliance on desalinated water puts pressure on the bottled water market, as the country faces increasing challenges in balancing water demand with environmental and economic sustainability.

KSA Bottled Water Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the KSA bottled water industry is expected to experience robust growth driven by increasing consumer health awareness, technological advancements in water purification, and government initiatives promoting sustainable water consumption. The demand for premium bottled water products is projected to rise, with brands focusing on environmentally friendly packaging and mineral-rich water.

Future Market Opportunities

• Rise in Sustainable Packaging Solutions: Over the next five years, the market in Saudi Arabia is expected to see a shift towards sustainable packaging solutions. Companies will increasingly adopt biodegradable and plant-based bottles in response to stricter government regulations on plastic waste. With the Saudi government pushing for 50% of all packaging to be recyclable by 2025, bottled water companies will be at the forefront of this transformation, investing in innovative packaging technologies that align with national sustainability goals.
• Growth of Local Brands: The bottled water sector in Saudi Arabia is likely to witness a rise in local brands capturing a larger share of the market. As government initiatives focus on boosting local production and reducing reliance on imports, homegrown bottled water companies will gain a competitive edge. With increased government support and investment, local brands are expected to dominate the market, particularly in rural areas where multinational companies have a smaller footprint. This trend will reshape the competitive landscape, providing opportunities for smaller players to expand.