Middle East & Africa Plant-based Desserts Market Outlook, 2028

The history of plant-based desserts in the Middle East and Africa is rich and diverse, reflecting the culinary traditions of the regions and the availability of local ingredients. Plant-based desserts have been enjoyed in these regions for centuries, with recipes passed down through generations. Dates have been a staple food in the Middle East for thousands of years. One of the earliest plant-based desserts in the region involves stuffing dates with various nuts, such as almonds or walnuts. These sweet treats are simple yet delicious. Historically, desserts in the Middle East and Africa relied on natural sweeteners like honey, dates, and fruit juices. With the introduction of sugar during the medieval period through trade routes, desserts became sweeter and more diverse. The Ottoman Empire, which covered a significant portion of the Middle East, left a lasting impact on regional cuisine. Turkish sweets like baklava and lokum (Turkish delight) became popular, adding new flavors and techniques to Middle Eastern desserts. In North Africa, desserts like Moroccan pastries (such as msemen and chebakia) showcase a blend of indigenous ingredients like almonds, honey, and semolina with flavors influenced by Arab, Andalusian, and French cuisines. Plant-based desserts in Sub-Saharan Africa often incorporate ingredients like millet, sorghum, and yams. These are used to create porridges, cakes, and sweet snacks. Modern variations include using plant-based milk alternatives. In the Levant, desserts like knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry) and qatayef (stuffed pancakes) have evolved with regional variations and adaptations, using ingredients like semolina, cheese, and various nuts. The rise of vegan and health-conscious diets has led to the adaptation of traditional recipes to exclude dairy and animal products. Plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond, soy, and coconut milk, are commonly used in desserts. There is a growing awareness of the health risks associated with excessive sugar consumption. Many dessert recipes have been modified to reduce sugar content or incorporate healthier natural sweeteners like dates or agave nectar.

According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Plant-based desserts Market Outlook, 2028” published by Bonafide Research, the market is anticipated to add over USD 120 Million market size from 2023 to 2028. Increased globalization and access to a wider range of ingredients have allowed for the fusion of global dessert trends with traditional Middle Eastern and African flavors. This has led to the creation of unique and innovative plant-based desserts. The internet and social media have played a significant role in sharing and popularizing plant-based dessert recipes from these regions, making them accessible to a global audience. Traditional plant-based desserts continue to be celebrated and passed down through generations as they hold cultural and religious significance. They are an integral part of festivities and family gatherings. For instance, Baklava is a famous dessert that has its origins in the Middle East, with disputed claims to both Turkish and Greek roots. This pastry consists of layers of phyllo dough, nuts (often pistachios or walnuts), and sweet syrup. It's a rich, indulgent treat enjoyed across the Middle East. Rice pudding, known as "Roz Bel Laban" in Arabic, is a creamy dessert made with rice, milk (or plant-based milk alternatives like almond or rice milk), sugar, and aromatic ingredients like rosewater or orange blossom water. It is a popular dessert throughout the Middle East. Halva is a sweet confection made from ingredients like ground sesame seeds, tahini, and sugar. It has a crumbly texture and comes in various flavors, including chocolate, pistachio, and vanilla. Halva is enjoyed in many Middle Eastern countries. Mahalabia is a traditional Middle Eastern milk pudding flavored with rosewater or orange blossom water and garnished with pistachios or almonds. It is a refreshing and fragrant dessert.

The United Arab Emirates is also increasingly becoming a plant-based hotspot in its own right; this trend is especially visible in Dubai, which has a large number of health-conscious consumers. The city is widely known for offering cuisines from numerous different cultures, making it relatively easy for plant-based foods to gain a foothold. Dubai is a global city with a diverse population consisting of residents and tourists from various countries. This cultural diversity has led to a demand for a wide range of culinary options, including plant-based desserts, to cater to different dietary preferences and health-conscious consumers. Like many parts of the world, there is a growing interest in health and wellness in the UAE. Consumers are increasingly aware of the health benefits of plant-based diets, and this awareness has driven the demand for healthier dessert options. Dubai is a major tourist destination in the Middle East, attracting visitors from all over the world. To cater to tourists with diverse dietary requirements, including vegans and vegetarians, the hospitality industry in Dubai has expanded its offerings of plant-based desserts. Dubai is known for its innovative food scene and world-class chefs. Many chefs and restaurants in the city have embraced the challenge of creating delicious and visually appealing plant-based desserts, contributing to their popularity. The UAE government has shown support for sustainable and healthy food initiatives. This includes promoting plant-based diets as a means to reduce the environmental footprint and improve public health. There is a growing community of vegans and vegetarians in the UAE who actively seek out plant-based options, including desserts. This has led to the establishment of vegan and vegetarian restaurants and bakeries that specialize in plant-based treats. Dubai's status as a global trade hub ensures easy access to a wide variety of plant-based ingredients, including alternative flours, dairy-free milks, and natural sweeteners, making it easier for chefs and bakers to experiment and create innovative plant-based desserts.

The Middle East is becoming a hotspot for plant-based food, with interest in meat and dairy alternatives growing at a fast pace, particularly since the pandemic. Sales of processed meat and dairy products are already relatively low in the region, and with obesity on the rise, plant-based foods are increasingly perceived as healthier options. Awareness of environmental and animal welfare issues is also growing, though it remains fairly low. Plant-based eating is particularly prominent in Israel, which is believed to have one of the largest vegan populations (as a percentage) of any country worldwide. The nation is home to numerous alt protein startups (such as Aleph Farms, Remilk, and YO-Egg), and has good relations with the UAE; this could lead to the sharing of food tech knowledge between the two countries. Many plant-based desserts in these regions feature floral flavors from ingredients like rosewater and orange blossom water, adding a fragrant and unique dimension to the sweets. Islamic dietary laws, including the prohibition of pork and alcohol, have played a significant role in shaping the plant-based dessert culture in the Middle East and North Africa. Plant-based desserts often take center stage during religious holidays and special occasions. For example, during Ramadan, Muslims break their fast with a variety of traditional sweets. The use of thin layers of pastry, often referred to as phyllo or filo dough, is widespread in the Middle East. It is used to create delicate, layered desserts like baklava and pastries such as samosas and sambusak. Different regions have their own unique plant-based desserts. For example, in Morocco, there are intricate honey-soaked pastries, while in Egypt, one can find creamy rice puddings and custards. Spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are frequently used to enhance the flavor of plant-based desserts, adding warmth and complexity to the dishes. As the popularity of veganism grows worldwide, the Middle East and Africa have seen a surge in plant-based dessert options. Traditional recipes are being adapted to exclude dairy and eggs, making these treats accessible to a broader audience. Some plant-based desserts are closely tied to seasonal ingredients. For example, fresh fruit salads with a drizzle of citrus or fruit juices are enjoyed in hot summer months.

The Middle East and Africa have seen a surge in e-commerce platforms and online marketplaces. The convenience and accessibility of online shopping have driven consumers to explore and purchase plant-based desserts online. Increased internet penetration and smartphone usage have made it easier for consumers to browse, order, and pay for plant-based desserts online. Mobile apps and responsive websites have enhanced the user experience. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift toward online shopping, including for food products. Concerns about health and safety led many consumers to prefer contactless shopping options, such as online delivery services. Online platforms have enabled consumers to access a wider variety of plant-based desserts. People can explore options from different regions, discover new brands, and find specialty items that may not be readily available in local stores. Companies and brands promoting plant-based desserts have recognized the importance of a strong online presence. They use social media, digital advertising, and influencers to reach a broader audience and promote their products. Online sales channels offer the convenience of doorstep delivery. This is especially appealing to consumers who may not have easy access to specialty stores or vegan/vegetarian restaurants. Online platforms allow consumers to search for specific dietary preferences, such as vegan, gluten-free, or nut-free options. This customization caters to a diverse range of dietary needs and preferences. Online channels provide opportunities for brands to educate consumers about the benefits of plant-based diets and the environmental impact of their choices, which can influence purchasing decisions. Some companies offer subscription-based services for plant-based desserts, delivering a variety of treats to subscribers on a regular basis. This model encourages repeat purchases and customer loyalty. Large online marketplaces like Amazon and regional platforms have expanded their food and grocery sections to include a wide range of plant-based products, making it easy for consumers to find and order these desserts. Many startups in the Middle East and Africa focus on plant-based and vegan food products, including desserts.



Trade shows and exhibitions:
• Gulfood Manufacturing (Dubai, UAE): This is the largest food and beverage processing and packaging event in the Middle East & Africa region. It takes place annually in February and features over 1,500 exhibitors from over 60 countries. There is a dedicated section for plant-based products, including desserts.
• FoodAfrica (Cairo, Egypt): This is the largest food and beverage processing and packaging event in Africa. It takes place annually in November and features over 300 exhibitors from over 20 countries. There is a dedicated section for plant-based products, including desserts.
• VegfestDXB (Dubai, UAE): This is a vegan and vegetarian trade show that takes place annually in Dubai. It features a wide range of plant-based food and beverage products, including desserts.
• Natural & Organic Products Expo Dubai (Dubai, UAE): This is a trade show for natural and organic products, including plant-based desserts. It takes place annually in Dubai.

Considered in this report
• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report
• Middle East & Africa Plant-based Desserts with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Plant-based Desserts market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report
• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Product Type
• Cakes and Pastries
• Custards & Puddings
• Others

By Distribution Channel
• Hypermarkets and Supermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• E-Commerce
• Others

The approach of the report:
This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience
This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Plant-based Desserts industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.