Middle East Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market Research Report, Analysis and Forecast

Middle East Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market Synopsis

The popularity of sugar-free carbonated beverages in the Middle East can be attributed to many factors. The increased understanding of the harmful consequences of excessive sugar consumption on health, particularly diseases like obesity and diabetes, is one of the primary causes. As a result, customers are actively looking for healthier drinks to replace sugary ones, and many find sugar-free carbonated beverages to be an alluring alternative.

In addition, individuals frequently seek out hydrating and refreshing drinks in the Middle East’s hot and arid climate, and carbonated beverages offer a bubbly, gratifying sensation that can slake thirst and make drinking enjoyable. Carbonated drinks without added sugar come in a wide range of flavours, making them a desirable alternative for consumers seeking delectable, low-calorie solutions.

In the Middle East, the average per capita consumption of sugar-free carbonated drinks is estimated to be around 4.2 litres per year, which is significantly lower than the global average of 8.3 litres per year.

According to a survey conducted in 2018, only 8% of people in the Middle East consume sugar-free carbonated drinks regularly, compared to 24% globally.

The majority of sugar-free carbonated drinks consumed in the Middle East are imported from other countries, with only a small percentage being produced locally.

Moreover, the Middle East has a large young population, and many of them are increasingly health-conscious and focused on fitness and wellness. Sugar-free carbonated drinks can be marketed as a healthier choice that fits into their healthy lifestyle goals. Additionally, the Middle East is a region that values status and luxury, and sugar-free carbonated drinks can be marketed as a premium product, appealing to consumers who are willing to pay more for high-quality, healthy beverages.

Middle East Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market: Overview

In recent years, the Middle East has seen a rise in the popularity of carbonated beverages without sugar. This can be due to a rise in health-conscious lifestyles and increased awareness of the consequences of ingesting sugary beverages on one’s health. To suit the needs of consumers in the area, beverage firms have created a variety of carbonated drinks without sugar in response to this trend.

Soft drinks, energy drinks, sports drinks, and carbonated water are just a few of the several types of sugar-free carbonated beverages available. Other well-liked options include cola, lime, orange, lemonade, and other fruit flavours. These beverages are sweetened without the additional calories and health hazards associated with sugar thanks to artificial sweeteners including aspartame, sucralose, and stevia.

Soft drinks are the most common type of sugar-free carbonated drink, and brands such as Coca-Cola and PepsiCo offer a range of sugar-free options to cater to the Middle Eastern market. Energy drinks and sports drinks are also popular among younger consumers who are looking for a quick burst of energy or hydration during physical activity.

The Middle East has seen a rise in the consumption of carbonated water, with companies like Perrier and San Pellegrino providing sugar-free soda alternatives to the region’s conventional sugar-filled sodas. Due to the lack of added sugar or artificial sweeteners, these beverages are frequently promoted as healthier alternatives to sugary drinks.

In conclusion, a rising consciousness of the health dangers posed by sugar-filled beverages as well as a movement towards healthier lifestyles in the Middle East is driving the demand for sugar-free carbonated beverages. In response to this trend, beverage manufacturers now provide a variety of sugar-free options in a variety of flavours and sizes, including sodas, energy drinks, sports drinks, and carbonated water.

Saudi Arabia Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market Synopsis

The Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks market in Saudi Arabia is growing due to the increasing health consciousness among the population. The country has seen a rise in the number of people who are looking for healthier alternatives to sugary drinks. This has led to an increase in demand for sugar-free carbonated drinks, which are seen as a healthier alternative. Additionally, the government has implemented various initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles, which has further increased demand for these products.

UAE Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market Synopsis

The UAE Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks market is also growing due to the increasing health consciousness among the population. The country has seen a rise in the number of people who are looking for healthier alternatives to sugary drinks. Additionally, there is an increasing trend towards healthy living and lifestyle choices, which has further increased demand for these products. Furthermore, the government has implemented various initiatives to promote healthy lifestyles, which has further boosted the demand for sugar-free carbonated drinks in this region.

Middle East Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks Market: Segmentation

The middle east sugar-free carbonated drinks market has been segmented into Type and Flavor.

Based on the Type, the middle east has a sugar-free carbonated drinks market for Soft Drinks, Energy Drinks, Sports drinks, and Carbonated Water. In 2021, the sports drinks segment held a significant share. This is primarily due to its rising popularity among athletes and fitness enthusiasts, as well as the increasing awareness among consumers about the importance of staying hydrated. Additionally, the availability of a wide variety of flavours and the convenience of purchasing these drinks are also driving market growth. Moreover, the health benefits associated with these drinks, such as replenishing lost electrolytes, enhancing energy levels, and providing quick hydration, are propelling the demand for sports drinks even further. For instance, the increasing focus on health and wellness has led to consumers preferring sports drinks over other carbonated beverages.

Based on Flavor, the market is classified as ola, Lime, Orange, Lemonade, and Others. In 2021, the segment is expected to account for a significant share of Lemonade. The Lemonade segment is expected to benefit from the increasing demand for natural and organic products as well as from the growing popularity of health-conscious lifestyles. Additionally, the rise of e-commerce has expanded the reach of the segment, making it easier for consumers to purchase Lemonade products. Moreover, the convenience and accessibility of online shopping also add to the segment’s appeal, allowing customers to quickly and easily order Lemonade products from the comfort of their homes. For instance, the company recently announced the launch of their online store, which allows customers to purchase their products directly from the company website.

Recent Developments

In 2021, the Middle East Sugar-Free Carbonated Drinks space saw several significant developments.

In January 2021, the UAE-based beverage company, Al Ain Water, launched its first sugar-free carbonated drink, Al Ain Zero. The drink is made with natural ingredients and contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. It is available in three flavours: lemon, orange and cola.
In March 2021, Saudi Arabia’s leading beverage company, Zamzam Cola Company, announced the launch of its new sugar-free carbonated drink called Zamzam Zero. The drink is made with natural ingredients and contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. It is available in four flavours: lemon, orange, cola and grapefruit.
In April 2021, Qatar’s leading beverage company, Qatar Beverages Company (QBC), announced the launch of its new sugar-free carbonated drink called QBC Zero. The drink is made with natural ingredients and contains no added sugar or artificial sweeteners. It is available in five flavours: lemon, orange, cola, grapefruit and raspberry.
In April 2021, PepsiCo launched its first sugar-free carbonated drink in the Middle East, Pepsi Zero Sugar. The launch was part of PepsiCo’s global strategy to reduce sugar consumption and promote healthier lifestyles. The drink is available in a variety of flavours including cola, lemon and lime.
In May 2021, Coca-Cola launched its sugar-free carbonated drink in the Middle East called Coca-Cola Zero Sugar. The launch was part of Coca-Cola’s global strategy to reduce sugar consumption and promote healthier lifestyles. The drink is available in a variety of flavours including cola, lemon and lime.
In June 2021, Nestlé Waters Middle East announced the launch of its first sugar-free carbonated drink in the region called Nestea Zero Sugar. The launch was part of Nestlé Waters’ global strategy to reduce sugar consumption and promote healthier lifestyles. The drink is available in a variety of flavours including cola, lemon and lime.

In 2022, there were several acquisitions in the Middle East sugar-free carbonated drinks company space.

In April 2022, Saudi-based beverage company Almarai acquired a majority stake in Bahrain-based carbonated drinks maker Al Jazira Beverages. The acquisition was part of Almarai’s strategy to expand its portfolio of sugar-free beverages.
In June 2022, UAE-based beverage company National Beverage Company (NBC) acquired a majority stake in Saudi Arabia’s leading sugar-free carbonated drinks maker, Al Safi Danone. The acquisition was part of NBC’s strategy to expand its presence in the Middle East and North Africa region.
In August 2022, Qatar-based beverage company Qatar Beverage Company (QBC) acquired a majority stake in Kuwaiti carbonated drinks maker Al Waseet International. The acquisition was part of QBC’s strategy to expand its portfolio of sugar-free beverages and strengthen its presence in the Middle East and North Africa region.
In October 2022, UAE-based beverage company Emirates Refreshments Company (ERC) acquired a majority stake in Omani carbonated drinks maker Oman Refreshment Company (ORC). The acquisition was part of ERC’s strategy to expand its portfolio of sugar-free beverages and strengthen its presence in the Middle East and North Africa region.