MENA Food Gifting Specialty Retail Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Product Type (Chocolates, Sweets and Baked Goods, Snack Products, Tea and Coffee, Wellness Foods, and Others), By Application (Personal Gifting and Corporate Gifting), By Price Point (Economy, Mid Range, Premium, and Luxury), and Regional Forecast, 2025-2032

The MENA food gifting specialty retail market size was valued at USD 6.04 billion in 2024. The market is projected to grow from USD 6.36 billion in 2025 to USD 8.47 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.16% during the forecast period. The key players are adapting to market trends by offering innovative products tailored to consumer preferences for quality and uniqueness in food gifting. They leverage cultural significance around gifting occasions to enhance their product lines and marketing strategies effectively.

Food gifting specialty retail refers to a segment of the gifts retailing market that focuses on selling food products specifically designed for gifting purposes. Hallab 1881, Bateel, Patchi, Al Rifai, and Mirzam are some of the major players in the market. This market encompasses a variety of items that are packaged and marketed as gifts, appealing to both individual consumers and corporate clients. Customization is becoming a prominent trend within the market, allowing consumers to tailor their gifts according to specific preferences or occasions. This trend is supported by advancements in online shopping technology that facilitate personalized selections.

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Increased Emphasis On Personal Connections to Boost Market Growth

Food gifts serve as a tangible way to express emotions and maintain relationships, particularly in a culturally rich region such as MENA (Middle East and North Africa), where hospitality and sharing food are integral to social interactions. The act of gifting food allows individuals to convey affection, appreciation, and celebration, reinforcing personal bonds. Besides, the COVID-19 pandemic led to a rise in remote celebrations, prompting consumers to seek ways to connect with loved ones despite the physical distance. Food gifts have emerged as a heartfelt solution, enabling people to share experiences and joy across borders, which is particularly relevant in the MENA region with its diverse expatriate communities.

Furthermore, in many MENA cultures, food plays a central role in celebrations and gatherings. Gifting food items aligns with traditional practices, making it a culturally relevant choice for various occasions, from holidays to personal milestones. This cultural significance enhances the attraction of food gifts, driving consumer interest. For instance, in April 2024, Nestlé, a global food and drink processing conglomerate, unveiled its new travel retail-exclusive, sustainably sourced chocolate range at the 2023 TFWA World Exhibition in Cannes. This product lineup consists of a variety of confectionary and chocolate products that can also be used for gifting purposes.

Rising Convenience of Online Shopping to Surge Market Development

Online shopping platforms have significantly expanded the accessibility of food gifting options across the MENA region. Consumers from various locations, including remote or underdeveloped areas, can access a wide range of specialty food items that were previously unavailable locally. This broadens the customer base for specialty retailers, driving food gifting market growth in MENA. Furthermore, advanced food gifting platforms streamline gift selection, customization, food preference, and packaging, making it easier for customers to order custom-made gifts. These online platforms also help promote different gift ideas to a global audience, increasing purchases and participation from diverse regions, including MENA.

Besides, technologies, such as Augmented Reality (AR), Virtual Reality (VR), and interactive apps enhance customer engagement by providing exclusive and unique gifting experiences. This makes food gifting more attractive to a broader customer base, including large corporate firms, hence surging the market growth in the long run.

According to a study published by the Majid Al Futtaim Group, an Emirati real estate and retail conglomerate, in 2023, e-commerce penetration in the UAE more than doubled since 2019, reaching approximately 12%, with mobile devices accounting for nearly 70% of all transactions.

Market Restraint

Disruptions Related to Supply Chain and Distribution Channel to Hinder Market Growth

The MENA region heavily relies on imported goods, including many specialty food items used in gifting. Disruptions in global supply chains, whether due to geopolitical tensions, trade restrictions, or natural disasters, lead to shortages of essential ingredients and products. This scarcity reduces the availability of popular food gifts, leading to higher prices and decreased consumer demand, thereby hindering the market growth. Moreover, supply chain disruptions often lead to increased costs of raw materials, transportation, and labor. These cost increases are typically passed on to consumers, resulting in higher prices for food gifts. In a price-sensitive market like the MENA region, where consumers may be unwilling or unable to absorb these higher costs, the demand can decrease, directly impacting the sales and market growth.

Market Opportunities

Growing Popularity of Personalized Gift Products to Fuel Market Development

Personalized gifts resonate more deeply with recipients as they reflect thoughtfulness and attention to detail. In the MENA region, where gifting is often linked to significant cultural and religious occasions, personalized food gifts carry added sentimental value. Therefore, consumers are more likely to engage with specialty retailers that offer customizable gifting options, leading to higher demand for these services and products.

In addition, the demand for personalized gifts has led to a proliferation of customization options. Retailers offer personalized packaging, custom messages, specific ingredient choices, and even tailored dietary options (e.g., gluten-free, vegan). This diversity caters to a wide range of consumer preferences, expanding the market reach and attracting new customers who value custom-made products. For instance, Mirzam Chocolate, based in Dubai, provides a range of customizable chocolate gift options. It offers personalized packaging that can feature logos or themes, making it suitable for corporate gifts or special occasions. Its products include small individual boxes and larger trays crafted from bean-to-bar using high-quality ingredients sourced from the historical Spice Route. It also allows customers to create unique recipes, catering to specific tastes and preferences, thereby boosting the MENA food gifting specialty retail market growth.

Market Challenge

Economic Instability and Supply Chain Disruptions to Pose Challenge for Market Growth

Fluctuating economic conditions in various MENA countries can lead to uncertainty in consumer spending habits. Economic downturns may result in reduced spending on non-essential items, such as gourmet food gifts, thereby impacting overall sales. Moreover, the region often faces logistical issues related to transportation infrastructure and supply chain reliability. Disruptions can lead to delays in product availability, affecting customer satisfaction and sales.

MENA Food Gifting Specialty Retail Market Trends

Rising Demand for Sustainably Sourced Food Products to Propel Market Growth

Increasing awareness of environmental and ethical issues among consumers in the MENA region is driving the demand for sustainably sourced food products. As people become more conscious of the impact of their consumption on the environment and society, they are more likely to choose food gifts that align with their values. This shift in consumer behavior will encourage specialty retailers to offer a range of sustainable products, thus accelerating the market development.

Furthermore, offering sustainably sourced products helps retailers differentiate themselves in a competitive market. Brands that prioritize sustainability can build a loyal customer base by engaging with consumers' ethical values. In the MENA region, where brand loyalty is highly valued, particularly in the luxury and specialty markets, sustainability becomes a key differentiator that drives repeat purchases and long-term growth. For instance, in July 2024, Emirates introduced a vegan chocolate pecan cake with whipped ganache as part of its first-class dessert offerings. This addition was part of the company’s broader initiative to enhance its gourmet chocolate selections, which also include a vegan onyx avocado chocolate tart available in business class and premium economy.

Request a Free sample to learn more about this report.

Impact of COVID-19

Economic uncertainties and changes in consumer behavior during the COVID-19 pandemic influenced spending patterns. With social distancing measures and travel restrictions in place, many people were unable to celebrate special occasions in person. As a result, food gifting became a popular way to maintain connections with loved ones. Therefore, sending food gifts allowed people to express care and affection from a distance, leading to a significant increase in their demand in MENA. Besides, in response to the pandemic, many companies introduced COVID-specific food gifts that catered to the unique circumstances of the time. These included care packages with immune-boosting foods, "stay-at-home" snack boxes, and wellness hampers designed to support health and well-being.

Segmentation Analysis

By Product Type Analysis

Growing Cultural Importance and Steady Demand Drove Chocolates Segment Growth

On the basis of product type, the market has been divided into chocolates, sweets and baked goods, snack products, tea and coffee, wellness foods, and others.

In 2024, the majority of the market share was held by the chocolate segment, largely due to its cultural importance and the tradition of gifting chocolates during festivals, holidays, and special events. The association of chocolates with celebrations ensures a steady demand for them as food gifts. Moreover, there is a growing trend among consumers of opting for artisanal and premium chocolates. Unique gifting ideas, including personalized packaging, custom flavors, and luxurious assortments, can enhance value and appeal of chocolate gifts to those in search of exclusive presents.

The wellness food segments include items, such as dry fruits, nuts & seeds, protein bars, and organic fruit hampers, among others, which are gaining popularity among the younger generation as a gifting option. In the business world, wellness foods are becoming an ideal choice for corporate gifts due to their universal appeal. Companies often distribute gift hampers of dry fruits and nuts & seeds during festive seasons or as a token of appreciation. In addition, these foods are getting well perceived due to their health benefits. The availability of such options has broadened the consumer base, making organic food gift hampers appealing to health-conscious buyers.

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

By Application Analysis

Growing Emphasis on Personalization and Innovations in Product Offerings to Fuel Personal Gifting Segment Growth

Based on application, the market has been segregated into personal gifting and corporate gifting.

The personal gifting segment represented the largest market share in 2024 and is anticipated to maintain its dominance throughout the forecast period. More consumers are choosing food gifts that come with custom touches, attractive packaging, and unique experiences, such as DIY kits. These features increase the perceived worth and emotional bond associated with the gift, contributing to the segment’s expansion. The segment is projected to experience growth fueled by innovations in product offerings and an emphasis on personalization. Furthermore, the rising consumer awareness of and demand for premium, healthy, and ethically sourced products is further expected to support the growth of the personal gifting segment.

The corporate gifting application segment is projected to experience the highest CAGR during the forecast period. As businesses aim to appreciate and strengthen relationships with clients and employees, the demand for corporate gifting is on the rise. Premium, branded food gift hampers, including gourmet baskets, luxury chocolates, and wellness food items, are increasingly becoming a part of corporate gifting. Furthermore, with more companies embracing hybrid or remote work models, the desire for considerate gestures, such as food gifts has grown. Sending gifts, such as snack boxes, gourmet treats, or meal kits has emerged as a popular method to keep teams engaged and motivated.

By Price Point Analysis

Wide Product Availability Accelerated Mid Range Segment Growth

Based on price point, the market has been segregated into economy, mid range, premium, and luxury.

The mid range price segment accounted for the largest food gifting specialty retail market share in 2024. Many companies provide food gift baskets and hampers at this price point to appeal to consumers with a moderate budget. This approach helps businesses boost sales and establish a competitive edge as an increasing number of consumers choose to spend in this category. The mid range price segment features a wide array of food gifting choices, including different types of chocolates, snack treats, sweets, and desserts, among other options.

The premium price point segment is anticipated to be the fastest-growing during the forecast period. The increasing number of high-income individuals and growing popularity of premium food hamper gifting are expected to drive this segment's growth. Modern consumers tend to be less sensitive to price and are willing to invest in high-quality gifts, such as gourmet foods and premium treats, which will bolster the segment’s growth. Furthermore, rising disposable incomes and a growing middle-class population due to improving economic conditions in the Middle Eastern countries are boosting the demand for premium food gifting options.

MENA Food Gifting Specialty Retail Market Regional Outlook

On the basis of countries, the market is distributed into Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Qatar, Algeria, Israel, Bahrain and the rest of the Middle East & North Africa.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia stood out as the strongest country in the MENA market as it has strong traditions surrounding gift-giving during religious holidays, including Ramadan, Eid Al-Fitr, Janadriyah National Festival, and others. Food items, such as dates, sweets & desserts, and gourmet hampers are popular choices, boosting the demand for food gifts. Besides, Saudi Arabia has observed a significant shift in individual preferences toward packaged food products, providing consumers with a wide range of suitable food gifting items that are delicious and nutritious, which will further accelerate the market’s growth in the country.

Egypt

Egypt captured the second-largest MENA food gifting specialty retail market share and is projected to witness notable growth during the forecast period of 2025-2032. Food is essential to be consumed and enjoyed, unlike other gifts that end up contributing to clutter. Apart from that, the uniqueness, indulgence, and shared experiences offered by food gifting have strengthened the market’s expansion in Egypt.

UAE

The UAE has a rich cultural heritage that emphasizes gifting during various occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, religious festivals, and corporate events. This cultural inclination toward gifting will fuel the demand for food gifts, making it a significant driver of the market. The corporate sector in the UAE has observed a rise in gifting as a means of employee recognition and relationship building. This trend is particularly pronounced during festive seasons, leading to increased sales in the food gifting segment.

Rest of MENA

The rest of the MENA countries, such as Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, Israel, South Africa, and Algeria, among others, are poised to experience considerable growth in the coming years. Economic growth and rising disposable income in parts of the Middle East, especially in the GCC countries, have led to greater spending on premium and luxury food gifts. Moreover, the expansion of e-commerce platforms, coupled with rising internet penetration, has made it easier for consumers to purchase and send food gifts online. Online retailers offer a wide range of customized and curated food gift options, consolidating the regional market’s growth.

Competitive Landscape

Key Industry Players

The competitive landscape of the MENA food gifting specialty retail market offers insights into various competitors. This includes an overview of each company, its financial performance, revenue generation, market potential, investments in research & development, new initiatives, strengths & weaknesses, product & brand portfolios, product launches, mergers & acquisitions, and their applications. The provided data focuses on the companies' engagement within the food gifting specialty retail market.

Major Players in the Food Gifting Specialty Retail Market:

To know how our report can help streamline your business, Speak to Analyst

Hallab 1881, Bateel, Patchi, Al Rifai, and Mirzam are some of the major players in the market. The market is moderately consolidated, with the top 5 players accounting for approximately 46.54% of the market share.

List of Key Companies Profiled In The Report

• Patchi (Lebanon)


• Bateel (UAE)


• Al Rifai (Lebanon)


• Neuhaus (Belgium)


• Jomara (Saudi Arabia)


• Godiva (Belgium)


• Al Nassma (UAE)


• Forrey & Galland (UAE)


• Mirzam (UAE)


• Hallab 1881 (Lebanon)

Key Industry Developments

• February 2024 – Fazer, a confectionery and food company, partnered with Dubai Duty-Free for a Valentine's Day promotion that showcased the Geisha brand at the Dubai International Airport. Geisha is known for its combination of milk chocolate and hazelnut nougat filling.


• February 2024 – Neuhaus unveiled a special Valentine’s Wine Pairing Collection designed to enhance the romantic experience of chocolate and wine lovers. The collection also features six unique alcohol-free pralines, making it suitable for a wider audience in the MENA region.


• July 2023 – FNP.ae, the UAE's premier online gifting platform, launched its first fully Arabic website and mobile app. The new site, Arabic FNP, is built from the ground up with products and offerings tailored specifically to Arabic tastes, drawing on over eight years of experience in the UAE.


• November 2022 – Godiva unveiled its highly anticipated limited-edition 2022 Holiday Collection, capturing the essence of the season with vibrant and joyful designs. To make the holiday season even more delightful, the company adorned its Limited Edition Holiday Gold Collection with a new festive look featuring a garland lid design and a golden ribbon.


• March 2021 – Bateel launched an exclusive luxury gift box collection consisting of its gourmet dates. These gift sets are perfect for special occasions, and also serve as extraordinary presents.

Investment Analysis and Opportunities

Digital Transformation and Emphasis On Local Sourcing and Artisanal Products to Provide Market Opportunity

The shift toward digital platforms is reshaping the food gifting landscape in the MENA. The increasing adoption of e-commerce and mobile payment solutions has created convenient purchasing options for consumers. Brands that invest in online gifting platforms can capitalize on this trend, especially among younger demographics who prefer digital transactions. Moreover, emphasis on local products can enhance the appeal of food gifts. Consumers are increasingly interested in items that reflect regional flavors and craftsmanship. Investing in local sourcing can support community businesses and align with the trend of a "sense of place" in gifting.

Report Coverage

The report analyzes the market in depth and highlights crucial aspects, such as prominent companies, countries, market segmentation, competitive landscape, product types, distribution channels, and application usage areas. Besides this, it provides insights into the market trends and highlights significant industry developments. In addition to the aspects mentioned earlier, the report encompasses several factors contributing to the market's growth in recent years.

To gain extensive insights into the market, Request for Customization

Report Scope & Segmentation