UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market is valued at USD 5,490 million, with growth fueled by rising fitness culture and e-commerce expansion across the region.

Region:Middle East

Author(s):Geetanshi

Product Code:KRAB2749

Pages:86

Published On:October 2025

About the Report

Base Year 2024

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Overview

  • The UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market is valued at USD 5,490 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by increasing health consciousness, a rise in fitness activities, and the growing trend of athleisure wear among consumers. The market has seen a significant shift towards performance-oriented apparel, which caters to both athletic and casual wear needs.
  • Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the dominant cities in the UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market due to their status as major commercial hubs and their vibrant lifestyle. The high disposable income of residents, coupled with a strong interest in sports and fitness, has led to a robust demand for sports apparel and athleisure products in these cities.
  • While specific details about government regulations or initiatives in 2023 are not available, the UAE has been actively promoting sports and physical activity through various initiatives like the Dubai Fitness Challenge and National Sports Day. These efforts aim to increase participation in sports events and enhance sports infrastructure, which can further boost the sports apparel market.
UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Size

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types, including Performance Apparel, Casual Athleisure, Footwear, Accessories, Smart Apparel, Eco-friendly Apparel, and Others. Among these, Performance Apparel is currently dominating the market due to the increasing participation in sports and fitness activities. Consumers are increasingly seeking high-quality, functional clothing that enhances their performance during workouts and sports. Casual Athleisure is also gaining traction as consumers prefer versatile clothing that can be worn both for exercise and casual outings.

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market segmentation by Type.

By End-User:The market is segmented by end-user into Men, Women, and Children. The Men's segment is currently leading the market, driven by a growing interest in fitness and sports among men. Women’s participation in sports and fitness activities is also on the rise, leading to increased demand for women-specific sports apparel. The Children’s segment is growing as parents are increasingly investing in sportswear for their children to promote an active lifestyle.

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market segmentation by End-User.

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Competitive Landscape

The UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Nike, Inc., Adidas AG, Puma SE, Under Armour, Inc., Reebok International Ltd., New Balance Athletics, Inc., ASICS Corporation, Lululemon Athletica Inc., Columbia Sportswear Company, Fila Holdings Corp., Skechers USA, Inc., Gymshark Ltd., Decathlon S.A., H&M Group (Hennes & Mauritz AB), The North Face, Inc., Li Ning Company Limited, Anta Sports Products Limited, Mizuno Corporation, Kappa, Ellesse contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Nike, Inc.

1964

Beaverton, Oregon, USA

Adidas AG

1949

Herzogenaurach, Germany

Puma SE

1948

Herzogenaurach, Germany

Under Armour, Inc.

1996

Baltimore, Maryland, USA

Reebok International Ltd.

1958

Canton, Massachusetts, USA

Company

Establishment Year

Headquarters

Group Size (Large, Medium, or Small as per industry convention)

Revenue Growth Rate (YoY, CAGR)

Market Penetration Rate (UAE market share, store/outlet count)

Customer Retention Rate (repeat purchase rate, loyalty program uptake)

Average Order Value (AOV, basket size)

Pricing Strategy (premium, value, penetration)

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

  • Increasing Health Consciousness:The UAE has seen a significant rise in health consciousness, with 67% of the population engaging in regular physical activity as of in future. This trend is supported by the UAE's health expenditure, which reached AED 60 billion in total health spending, reflecting a 10% increase from the previous period. The growing awareness of health benefits associated with fitness is driving demand for sports apparel, as consumers seek quality products that enhance their workout experiences.
  • Rise of Fitness Culture:The fitness culture in the UAE is rapidly evolving, with over 800 fitness centers operating across the country as of in future. The number of fitness enthusiasts has surged to approximately 1.5 million, indicating a robust market for sports apparel. Events like the Dubai Fitness Challenge, which attracted over 2 million participants in future, further promote active lifestyles, creating a strong demand for athleisure and performance wear among consumers.
  • Expansion of E-commerce Platforms:E-commerce in the UAE is projected to reach AED 27 billion in future, growing at a rate of 15% annually. This expansion is facilitating easier access to sports apparel, with online sales accounting for about 12% of total retail sales in future. The convenience of online shopping, coupled with targeted marketing strategies, is driving consumer engagement and increasing the overall market for sports apparel and athleisure products.

Market Challenges

  • Intense Competition:The UAE sports apparel market is characterized by intense competition, with over 200 brands vying for market share. Major global players like Nike and Adidas dominate, holding approximately 40% of the market. This competitive landscape pressures local brands to innovate and differentiate their offerings, often leading to increased marketing costs and reduced profit margins for smaller companies trying to establish their presence.
  • Price Sensitivity Among Consumers:Despite the growing market, price sensitivity remains a significant challenge, with 55% of consumers prioritizing affordability over brand loyalty. The average consumer spends around AED 500 annually on sports apparel, which limits the purchasing power for premium products. This price sensitivity forces brands to balance quality and affordability, impacting their ability to invest in marketing and product development.

UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Future Outlook

The future of the UAE sports apparel and athleisure market appears promising, driven by increasing health awareness and a growing fitness culture. As e-commerce continues to expand, brands will likely invest in digital marketing strategies to reach a broader audience. Additionally, the integration of technology in apparel, such as smart fabrics, is expected to enhance consumer engagement. Overall, the market is poised for growth, with innovative products and marketing strategies playing a crucial role in shaping its trajectory.

Market Opportunities

  • Growth in Online Retail:The surge in online retail presents a significant opportunity for sports apparel brands. With e-commerce projected to account for about 12% of total retail sales in future, brands can leverage digital platforms to reach tech-savvy consumers, enhancing their market presence and driving sales growth through targeted online campaigns.
  • Collaborations with Fitness Influencers:Collaborating with fitness influencers can significantly boost brand visibility and credibility. As of in future, over 70% of consumers trust recommendations from influencers, making partnerships a strategic opportunity for brands to engage with their target audience effectively and drive sales through authentic endorsements.

Scope of the Report

SegmentSub-Segments
By Type

Performance Apparel

Casual Athleisure

Footwear

Accessories

Smart Apparel (e.g., biometric sensors, smart fabrics)

Eco-friendly Apparel (e.g., recycled polyester, organic cotton)

Others

By End-User

Men

Women

Children

By Sales Channel

Online Retail (e-commerce, mobile apps, social commerce)

Offline Retail (malls, specialty stores, department stores)

Direct Sales (brand stores, pop-ups, D2C)

By Price Range

Budget

Mid-range

Premium

By Brand Loyalty

Brand Loyal Customers

Price-sensitive Customers

Trend-driven Customers

By Occasion

Sports Events

Casual Wear

Gym and Fitness

By Material

Synthetic Fabrics (polyester, nylon, spandex)

Natural Fabrics (cotton, bamboo, hemp)

Blended Fabrics

Key Target Audience

Investors and Venture Capitalist Firms

Government and Regulatory Bodies (e.g., Ministry of Economy, Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing)

Manufacturers and Producers

Distributors and Retailers

Fitness Centers and Gyms

Sports Teams and Organizations

Event Organizers and Promoters

Health and Wellness Influencers

Players Mentioned in the Report:

Nike, Inc.

Adidas AG

Puma SE

Under Armour, Inc.

Reebok International Ltd.

New Balance Athletics, Inc.

ASICS Corporation

Lululemon Athletica Inc.

Columbia Sportswear Company

Fila Holdings Corp.

Skechers USA, Inc.

Gymshark Ltd.

Decathlon S.A.

H&M Group (Hennes & Mauritz AB)

The North Face, Inc.

Li Ning Company Limited

Anta Sports Products Limited

Mizuno Corporation

Kappa

Ellesse

Table of Contents

Market Assessment Phase

1. Executive Summary and Approach


2. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Overview

2.1 Key Insights and Strategic Recommendations

2.2 UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Overview

2.3 Definition and Scope

2.4 Evolution of Market Ecosystem

2.5 Timeline of Key Regulatory Milestones

2.6 Value Chain & Stakeholder Mapping

2.7 Business Cycle Analysis

2.8 Policy & Incentive Landscape


3. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Analysis

3.1 Growth Drivers

3.1.1 Increasing Health Consciousness
3.1.2 Rise of Fitness Culture
3.1.3 Expansion of E-commerce Platforms
3.1.4 Government Initiatives Promoting Sports

3.2 Market Challenges

3.2.1 Intense Competition
3.2.2 Price Sensitivity Among Consumers
3.2.3 Supply Chain Disruptions
3.2.4 Rapidly Changing Fashion Trends

3.3 Market Opportunities

3.3.1 Growth in Online Retail
3.3.2 Collaborations with Fitness Influencers
3.3.3 Customization and Personalization Trends
3.3.4 Expansion into Emerging Markets

3.4 Market Trends

3.4.1 Sustainable and Eco-friendly Products
3.4.2 Athleisure as Everyday Wear
3.4.3 Technological Integration in Apparel
3.4.4 Growth of Subscription Models

3.5 Government Regulation

3.5.1 Import Tariffs on Apparel
3.5.2 Standards for Sports Equipment
3.5.3 Regulations on Advertising and Sponsorship
3.5.4 Health and Safety Regulations

4. SWOT Analysis


5. Stakeholder Analysis


6. Porter's Five Forces Analysis


7. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Market Size, 2019-2024

7.1 By Value

7.2 By Volume

7.3 By Average Selling Price


8. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Segmentation

8.1 By Type

8.1.1 Performance Apparel
8.1.2 Casual Athleisure
8.1.3 Footwear
8.1.4 Accessories
8.1.5 Smart Apparel (e.g., biometric sensors, smart fabrics)
8.1.6 Eco-friendly Apparel (e.g., recycled polyester, organic cotton)
8.1.7 Others

8.2 By End-User

8.2.1 Men
8.2.2 Women
8.2.3 Children

8.3 By Sales Channel

8.3.1 Online Retail (e-commerce, mobile apps, social commerce)
8.3.2 Offline Retail (malls, specialty stores, department stores)
8.3.3 Direct Sales (brand stores, pop-ups, D2C)

8.4 By Price Range

8.4.1 Budget
8.4.2 Mid-range
8.4.3 Premium

8.5 By Brand Loyalty

8.5.1 Brand Loyal Customers
8.5.2 Price-sensitive Customers
8.5.3 Trend-driven Customers

8.6 By Occasion

8.6.1 Sports Events
8.6.2 Casual Wear
8.6.3 Gym and Fitness

8.7 By Material

8.7.1 Synthetic Fabrics (polyester, nylon, spandex)
8.7.2 Natural Fabrics (cotton, bamboo, hemp)
8.7.3 Blended Fabrics

9. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Competitive Analysis

9.1 Market Share of Key Players

9.2 Cross Comparison of Key Players

9.2.1 Company Name
9.2.2 Group Size (Large, Medium, or Small as per industry convention)
9.2.3 Revenue Growth Rate (YoY, CAGR)
9.2.4 Market Penetration Rate (UAE market share, store/outlet count)
9.2.5 Customer Retention Rate (repeat purchase rate, loyalty program uptake)
9.2.6 Average Order Value (AOV, basket size)
9.2.7 Pricing Strategy (premium, value, penetration)
9.2.8 Brand Awareness Level (social media following, search volume, survey data)
9.2.9 Product Return Rate (online/offline return rates, quality metrics)
9.2.10 Distribution Channel Efficiency (e-commerce fulfillment speed, offline stock availability)

9.3 SWOT Analysis of Top Players

9.4 Pricing Analysis

9.5 Detailed Profile of Major Companies

9.5.1 Nike, Inc.
9.5.2 Adidas AG
9.5.3 Puma SE
9.5.4 Under Armour, Inc.
9.5.5 Reebok International Ltd.
9.5.6 New Balance Athletics, Inc.
9.5.7 ASICS Corporation
9.5.8 Lululemon Athletica Inc.
9.5.9 Columbia Sportswear Company
9.5.10 Fila Holdings Corp.
9.5.11 Skechers USA, Inc.
9.5.12 Gymshark Ltd.
9.5.13 Decathlon S.A.
9.5.14 H&M Group (Hennes & Mauritz AB)
9.5.15 The North Face, Inc.
9.5.16 Li Ning Company Limited
9.5.17 Anta Sports Products Limited
9.5.18 Mizuno Corporation
9.5.19 Kappa
9.5.20 Ellesse

10. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market End-User Analysis

10.1 Procurement Behavior of Key Ministries

10.1.1 Government Sports Initiatives
10.1.2 Budget Allocations for Sports Apparel
10.1.3 Procurement Processes and Regulations

10.2 Corporate Spend on Infrastructure & Energy

10.2.1 Investment in Sports Facilities
10.2.2 Sponsorship of Sports Events
10.2.3 Partnerships with Sports Brands

10.3 Pain Point Analysis by End-User Category

10.3.1 Quality vs. Price Concerns
10.3.2 Availability of Size and Fit
10.3.3 Brand Trust Issues

10.4 User Readiness for Adoption

10.4.1 Awareness of New Trends
10.4.2 Willingness to Experiment with Brands
10.4.3 Feedback Mechanisms

10.5 Post-Deployment ROI and Use Case Expansion

10.5.1 Measurement of Performance Improvements
10.5.2 Customer Satisfaction Metrics
10.5.3 Expansion into New Product Lines

11. UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market Future Size, 2025-2030

11.1 By Value

11.2 By Volume

11.3 By Average Selling Price


Go-To-Market Strategy Phase

1. Whitespace Analysis + Business Model Canvas

1.1 Market Gaps Identification

1.2 Business Model Framework


2. Marketing and Positioning Recommendations

2.1 Branding Strategies

2.2 Product USPs


3. Distribution Plan

3.1 Urban Retail Strategies

3.2 Rural NGO Tie-ups


4. Channel & Pricing Gaps

4.1 Underserved Routes

4.2 Pricing Bands


5. Unmet Demand & Latent Needs

5.1 Category Gaps

5.2 Consumer Segments


6. Customer Relationship

6.1 Loyalty Programs

6.2 After-sales Service


7. Value Proposition

7.1 Sustainability Initiatives

7.2 Integrated Supply Chains


8. Key Activities

8.1 Regulatory Compliance

8.2 Branding Efforts

8.3 Distribution Setup


9. Entry Strategy Evaluation

9.1 Domestic Market Entry Strategy

9.1.1 Product Mix
9.1.2 Pricing Band
9.1.3 Packaging Considerations

9.2 Export Entry Strategy

9.2.1 Target Countries
9.2.2 Compliance Roadmap

10. Entry Mode Assessment

10.1 Joint Ventures

10.2 Greenfield Investments

10.3 Mergers & Acquisitions

10.4 Distributor Model


11. Capital and Timeline Estimation

11.1 Capital Requirements

11.2 Timelines for Implementation


12. Control vs Risk Trade-Off

12.1 Ownership vs Partnerships


13. Profitability Outlook

13.1 Breakeven Analysis

13.2 Long-term Sustainability


14. Potential Partner List

14.1 Distributors

14.2 Joint Ventures

14.3 Acquisition Targets


15. Execution Roadmap

15.1 Phased Plan for Market Entry

15.1.1 Market Setup
15.1.2 Market Entry
15.1.3 Growth Acceleration
15.1.4 Scale & Stabilize

15.2 Key Activities and Milestones

15.2.1 Milestone Planning
15.2.2 Activity Tracking

Research Methodology

ApproachModellingSample

Phase 1: Approach1

Desk Research

  • Analysis of market reports from industry associations and government publications
  • Review of consumer behavior studies and trend analyses from academic journals
  • Examination of sales data and market share reports from leading sports apparel brands

Primary Research

  • Interviews with key stakeholders in the sports apparel and athleisure sectors, including brand managers and retail executives
  • Surveys targeting fitness enthusiasts and consumers to gauge preferences and purchasing behavior
  • Focus group discussions with athletes and fitness influencers to understand market trends and product feedback

Validation & Triangulation

  • Cross-validation of findings through multiple data sources, including sales figures and consumer insights
  • Triangulation of qualitative insights from interviews with quantitative data from surveys
  • Sanity checks conducted through expert panel reviews and industry roundtables

Phase 2: Market Size Estimation1

Top-down Assessment

  • Estimation of total market size based on national sports participation rates and apparel spending
  • Segmentation of the market by product categories, including performance wear, casual athleisure, and accessories
  • Incorporation of demographic trends and lifestyle changes influencing market growth

Bottom-up Modeling

  • Collection of sales data from major retailers and e-commerce platforms in the UAE
  • Estimation of average selling prices and volume sold across different product segments
  • Analysis of consumer spending patterns and frequency of purchase in the athleisure category

Forecasting & Scenario Analysis

  • Development of growth projections based on historical data and emerging market trends
  • Scenario analysis considering factors such as economic conditions, consumer preferences, and competitive landscape
  • Creation of baseline, optimistic, and pessimistic forecasts through 2030

Phase 3: CATI Sample Composition1

Scope Item/SegmentSample SizeTarget Respondent Profiles
Retail Market Insights150Store Managers, Brand Representatives
Consumer Preferences in Athleisure120Fitness Enthusiasts, Casual Consumers
Trends in Sports Apparel100Fashion Buyers, Trend Analysts
Impact of Social Media on Purchases120Social Media Influencers, Digital Marketers
Market Entry Strategies for New Brands80Entrepreneurs, Business Development Managers

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current value of the UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market?

The UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market is valued at approximately USD 5,490 million, reflecting significant growth driven by increasing health consciousness and a rise in fitness activities among consumers.

Which cities dominate the UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market?

What are the main types of products in the UAE Sports Apparel & Athleisure Market?

Who are the primary end-users of sports apparel in the UAE?

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