GCC Baby Formula Market Size, Share and Forecast Trends - Growth Analysis and Outlook Report (2026-2035)

GCC Baby Formula Market Overview

The market is steadily expanding, supported by rising awareness of early-life nutrition, changing family lifestyles, and improving access to quality infant food products. Strong demand for first infant formula, growing preference for protein-rich ingredients, and the dominance of supermarkets and hypermarkets are shaping market performance. Strategic funding activity, manufacturing investments, and clinical research collaborations are further strengthening supply stability and consumer trust. Country-wise, Saudi Arabia leads the market, followed by the UAE. Overall, the market is expected to witness sustained growth, driven by innovation, localization, and evolving parental preferences across the GCC.

GCC Baby Formula Market Growth Drivers

Increasing Strategic Fundings are Likely to Boost the Market Value

Rising startup funding and entrepreneurial activity strengthen the overall mom and baby care ecosystem, indirectly boosting demand for baby nutrition products by improving access, awareness, and trust among modern parents. This growing startup presence is also simplifying how families discover, compare, and purchase essential infant nutrition through digital platforms. For instance, in March 2025, Tracxn reported 173 Mom & Baby Care startups in the GCC, including Mumzworld, QiDZ, Yahaal, 3asafeer, and Yalla Toys. Notably, 22 startups are funded, with five securing Series A+, signalling strong investor confidence and reinforcing sustained growth in the market across the region.

Rising Manufacturing Investments Accelerating the GCC Baby Formula Market Expansion

Expanding local manufacturing strengthens supply stability, reduces import dependence, and improves product availability across the GCC baby nutrition ecosystem, supporting long-term market resilience and confidence. It is expected to be a growth driver in the market as localized production enables faster supply cycles, stable pricing, and stronger food security. For example, in September 2024, Nestlé signed an agreement with MODON to establish its first manufacturing plant in Saudi Arabia, with operations planned for 2025. This SR270 million investment enhances regional capacity and accelerates the growth of the market across the GCC.

GCC Baby Formula Market Trends

Some of the trends in the market are rising clinical collaborations, growing emphasis on evidence-based nutrition, and increasing preference for locally manufactured and premium baby formula products.

Rising Clinical Collaborations to Propel the Market Expansion

Growing emphasis on evidence-based nutritional research is emerging as a key trend in the market, strengthening product credibility and consumer confidence. For instance, in November 2025, a clinical collaboration was announced to study goat milk-based infant formula and its impact on infant digestive health, highlighting the shift toward science-led product development. This trend enables healthcare professionals to make informed recommendations and reassure parents about product safety and efficacy, ultimately reinforcing sustained demand across the market in the region.

GCC Baby Formula Market Segmentation

GCC Baby Formula Market Share

First Infant Formula is Likely to Lead the Market Share by Type

The first infant formula is expected to lead the segment as it addresses the most critical nutritional stage for newborns, where safety, quality, and medical guidance strongly influence purchase decisions. Rising hospital births, growing awareness of early-life nutrition, and increasing working-parent households are reinforcing demand for reliable starter formulas. Healthcare recommendations and improved retail availability further support adoption, directly impacting overall market growth and stability. This dominance strengthens the market by driving consistent volumes and brand loyalty from the earliest stage. Other segments include follow-on formula, growing-up formula, and speciality baby formula.

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Purchase the Regional Overview for USD 1099

If you choose to purchase the full report at a later stage, the amount already paid will be adjusted, and you will only need to pay the remaining balance.

Purchase the Regional Overview for USD 1099

If you choose to purchase the full report at a later stage, the amount already paid will be adjusted, and you will only need to pay the remaining balance.

GCC Baby Formula Market Analysis by Region

Saudi Arabia is expected to lead the market due to its large population base, higher birth rates, and strong emphasis on food security and localized manufacturing. Well-developed healthcare systems and wide retail penetration further support steady demand and market expansion. Government-led industrial development and supply chain strengthening continue to enhance product availability and consumer confidence. The United Arab Emirates is anticipated to rank second, driven by high disposable incomes, premium product adoption, and strong pharmacy and e-commerce networks, supporting sustained growth in the regional baby formula landscape.

Leading Players in the GCC Baby Formula Market

Other key players include Laboratorios Ordesa, S.L., Bellamy’s Organic, Reckiit Benckiser Group Plc., and Arla Foods amba.

Key Questions Answered in the GCC Baby Formula Market

• What was the GCC baby formula market value in 2025?
• What is the GCC baby formula market forecast outlook for 2026-2035?
• What are the major factors aiding the GCC baby formula market demand?
• How has the market performed so far, and how is it anticipated to perform in the coming years?
• What are the market's major drivers, opportunities, and restraints?
• What are the major GCC baby formula market trends?
• Which type is expected to dominate the market segment?
• Which ingredient type is projected to lead the market segment?
• Which distribution channel is likely to dominate the market segment?
• Who are the key players involved in the GCC baby formula market?
• What are the current unmet needs and challenges in the market?
• How are partnerships, collaborations, mergers, and acquisitions among the key market players shaping the market dynamics?

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