KSA Pet Care Market Outlook to 2030

KSA Pet Care Market Overview

• The KSA pet care market is valued at USD 135 million, driven primarily by the rising trend of pet ownership across urban households, especially among affluent families. As disposable incomes grow in Saudi Arabia, there has been a shift towards treating pets as family members, leading to a rise in demand for premium pet food, grooming products, and veterinary services. Additionally, the expansion of e-commerce platforms in the region has made pet care products more accessible to a broader audience, further driving market growth. This information is derived from a detailed market study and government sources tracking consumer spending patterns.

• Riyadh and Jeddah are the dominant cities within the KSA pet care market. These cities are home to a large number of expatriates and high-net-worth individuals who are more inclined towards pet ownership and premium pet care services. The strong presence of veterinary clinics and pet specialty stores in these urban hubs is also a contributing factor to their dominance. Furthermore, these cities have seen rapid urbanization, which aligns with the pet humanization trend, thus leading to higher demand for pet care products and services.
• Saudi Arabia maintains strict import regulations for pet food and products to ensure quality and safety. As of 2023, 90% of imported pet products comply with Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) standards, a increase from 85% in 2020. These regulations aim to protect consumer safety and ensure that pet products meet local standards. While regulatory compliance is improving, stringent import rules continue to pose a challenge for foreign companies looking to enter the market, affecting product availability and variety

KSA Pet Care Market Segmentation

By Product Type: The market is segmented by product type into pet food, pet grooming products, pet accessories, and veterinary products. Pet food holds the largest market share due to the increased awareness among pet owners regarding the importance of nutrition for their pets. Premium pet food, in particular, dominates this segment as more consumers are opting for organic and grain-free products to ensure better health and longevity for their pets. The growing availability of specialized diets tailored to specific breeds and pet health conditions further enhances the growth of this sub-segment.

By Distribution Channel: The market is also segmented by distribution channel into online, veterinary clinics, pet specialty stores, and supermarkets/hypermarkets. Online sales channels are experiencing the fastest growth due to the convenience and variety they offer to pet owners. E-commerce platforms like Amazon and local platforms are providing competitive pricing and home delivery services, making it easier for pet owners to access pet care products. This trend has been accelerated by the ongoing digital transformation in the region, along with increasing internet penetration.

KSA Pet Care Market Competitive Landscape

The KSA pet care market is dominated by both global and local players, with companies such as Mars Petcare and Nestl Purina Petcare holding market shares. These players leverage their extensive distribution networks, strong brand presence, and product innovation to maintain a competitive edge. The local market also sees the presence of regional players like Petzone KSA, which cater specifically to the needs of Saudi consumers. The competition in this market is primarily driven by brand loyalty, product quality, and the availability of a wide range of products across various price segments.

KSA Pet Care Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Rising Pet Ownership: Pet ownership in Saudi Arabia has seen a notable increase, with urban households increasingly adopting pets. According to a 2023 government report, the average number of pets per household in urban areas has risen to 1.8, compared to 1.4 in 2020. This surge is attributed to changing lifestyles and cultural openness toward pets. The rise in pet ownership, particularly among young families and expatriates, is driving the demand for pet care products and services, including veterinary care and specialized nutrition. This trend is creating a solid foundation for the expansion of the pet care industry in KSA.
• Increased Disposable Income: Saudi Arabias per capita income has grown steadily due to economic diversification efforts and the government's Vision 2030 reforms. In 2023, per capita income reached SAR 93,000, up from SAR 88,000 in 2021, as reported by the Saudi General Authority for Statistics. The rise in disposable income has positively impacted consumer spending on non-essential goods, including premium pet care products. Households with higher incomes are more likely to invest in high-quality pet food, grooming services, and veterinary care, fueling growth in the pet care sector.
• Expansion of Veterinary Services: The number of veterinary clinics in Saudi Arabia has grown , with 1,200 clinics reported in 2023 compared to 950 in 2020, according to the Ministry of Environment, Water, and Agriculture. This 26% growth in veterinary infrastructure highlights the expanding access to professional care for pets. The growth in clinics is driven by increased pet ownership and government efforts to improve animal health services. This expansion is essential for ensuring the well-being of pets and is directly linked to the growing demand for veterinary products and treatments.

Market Challenges

• High Cost of Pet Products: The cost of pet care products in Saudi Arabia remains a challenge for many pet owners. In 2023, the average annual spending per pet was SAR 5,200, an increase from SAR 4,700 in 2020, according to the General Authority for Statistics. Rising costs for pet food, grooming, and veterinary care, especially for premium products, strain household budgets. These high costs may deter potential pet owners or limit the ability of existing owners to provide comprehensive care, posing a challenge for market growth.
• Regulatory Barriers for Imports: Saudi Arabia imposes import tariffs on various pet care products, making it challenging for international brands to enter the market. As of 2023, the average tariff rate for imported pet products stands at 10%, as noted by the Saudi Customs Authority. These tariffs increase the cost of foreign pet care goods, limiting the availability and affordability of specialized products. Regulatory barriers can slow market growth by restricting product diversity and making premium imports less accessible to middle-income pet owners.

KSA Pet Care Market Future Outlook

Over the next five years, the KSA pet care market is expected to grow steadily, driven by increasing pet ownership, rising disposable incomes, and the continued premiumization of pet care products. The growing trend towards humanization of pets, which involves treating pets as part of the family, is expected to lead to further demand for premium pet food, grooming products, and wellness services. Moreover, the expansion of e-commerce platforms and the introduction of pet insurance services are likely to provide additional growth avenues for the market.

Future Market Opportunities

• E-commerce Expansion: E-commerce has become an important distribution channel for pet care products in Saudi Arabia. Online sales of pet products increased by 50% between 2020 and 2023, reaching SAR 500 million, as reported by the Ministry of Commerce. The convenience of online shopping and a wider variety of products have attracted pet owners to digital platforms. As internet penetration and digital literacy rise, e-commerce is expected to become a dominant channel for pet care products, providing a opportunity for market growth.
• Organic and Natural Pet Products: The demand for organic and natural pet products in Saudi Arabia is growing rapidly. In 2023, organic products accounted for 20% of the pet care market, up from 15% in 2021, as reported by the General Authority for Statistics. Pet owners are increasingly seeking chemical-free, eco-friendly products for their pets, which aligns with broader global trends toward sustainable consumption. This growing preference for organic products offers opportunities for brands specializing in natural pet food, grooming products, and wellness items.