Saudi Arabia Hand Sanitaizer Market Overview, 2030

The hand sanitizer market in Saudi Arabia has experienced notable growth, particularly in the wake of the global pandemic, which reshaped hygiene practices globally. The rapid spread of the virus led to a swift surge in demand for personal hygiene products, with hand sanitizers emerging as a key solution for preventing viral transmission. The government’s immediate response included the introduction of stricter health protocols and widespread public awareness campaigns about hygiene. These efforts drove the adoption of hand sanitizers, though initially, there were challenges related to supply chain disruptions, production limitations, and a lack of local manufacturing capacity. These obstacles were mitigated as local industries adapted, and the Saudi government facilitated the importation of raw materials while boosting domestic production. The hand sanitizer itself is an alcohol-based solution, primarily composed of ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, designed to quickly kill bacteria and viruses on the hands. Some formulations also incorporate moisturizing agents like aloe vera to prevent skin dryness. The product is used when soap and water are unavailable, providing an effective alternative for hand hygiene in public spaces, offices, and homes. It became especially critical in high-traffic areas such as malls, airports, healthcare facilities, and schools across Saudi Arabia. The growth of the market has been supported by several factors, including the country’s investment in health-related research and technological innovations that allow manufacturers to improve the formulation and production processes. Saudi Arabia has also focused on environmental and economic drivers, such as reducing reliance on imports by encouraging local manufacturing. Initiatives like the Saudi Vision 2030 reform plan, which aims to diversify the economy, have indirectly contributed to the expansion of the hand sanitizer market by supporting domestic production and creating new avenues for local companies. Furthermore, the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) issued guidelines for sanitizing products to ensure their effectiveness and safety, driving confidence in the local market. Research and development investments, particularly in the chemical and pharmaceutical sectors, have also led to advancements in product innovation, improving both the efficacy and sustainability of hand sanitizers.

According to the research report, "Saudi Arabia Hand Sanitizer Market Overview, 2030," published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Hand Sanitizer market is anticipated to add to more than USD 400 Million by 2025–30. The market experienced growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, as the country placed a strong emphasis on hygiene to curb the virus’s spread. Prior to the pandemic, hand sanitizers were commonly used in medical and commercial settings, but the widespread outbreak led to a sharp increase in demand across households, retail outlets, and public spaces. The major challenges faced during this time included raw material shortages, particularly alcohol, and disruptions to manufacturing and supply chains. However, the government's swift response, including regulatory measures and the establishment of local production capabilities, helped mitigate these challenges and stabilize the market. By 2023, the market showed signs of recovery, with demand for hand sanitizers remaining high due to continued awareness of personal hygiene. By 2024, a shift toward more sustainable, alcohol-free, and organic formulations began to emerge as consumers became more environmentally conscious and health-focused. Saudi Arabia’s large and growing population, coupled with a rapidly developing economy and a robust healthcare system, has driven demand for hand sanitizers, particularly in urban areas like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Mecca, where commercial and industrial activity is more concentrated. The country also plays a significant role in the regional export of sanitizing products. Major players in the Saudi Arabian hand sanitizer market include multinational brands such as Procter & Gamble and Reckitt Benckiser, as well as local companies like Al Haramain and Saudi-based Al-Dawaa Pharmacies. These brands dominate through extensive distribution networks, competitive pricing, and product innovation. The new players in the market particularly those focusing on organic and natural hand sanitizers, are gaining traction, though they face challenges such as competition from established players and regulatory barriers.

In Saudi Arabia, hand sanitizers are available in a various form, each catering to specific consumer preferences and usage environments. Gel-based sanitizers are the most popular due to their convenience and ease of use, especially in high-demand locations like schools, shopping malls, and hospitals. The gel formulation is typically alcohol-based which allows it to effectively kill bacteria and viruses while being fast-drying and non-greasy. Gel sanitizers are available in various sizes, with smaller travel-sized bottles being widely used for personal hygiene on the go, and larger containers being used in public spaces for shared use. Liquid hand sanitizers are also quite prevalent, especially in larger dispensers placed in public areas like airports, offices, and commercial establishments. These are ideal for high-traffic locations where individuals can easily access hand sanitizing solutions. Liquid sanitizers often contain alcohol in similar concentrations to gel variants and are offered in both alcohol-based and non-alcohol-based formulations. Foam sanitizers have started gaining traction in the Saudi Arabian market, particularly in more premium retail outlets, hotels, and restaurants. The foam formulation is valued for its light and smooth texture, which is easy to apply and dries quickly. Foam sanitizers are also considered more economical, as they tend to reduce product wastage compared to liquid sanitizers. Non-alcohol-based sanitizers, while less common, are increasingly being sought after in Saudi Arabia due to rising consumer interest in natural and skin-friendly alternatives. These non-alcoholic sanitizers typically use ingredients such as aloe vera, herbal extracts, or essential oils, and are marketed as gentler on the skin, making them appealing for individuals with sensitive skin or those looking for eco-friendly options. The Alcohol-based sanitizers dominate the market, driven by their proven effectiveness in preventing the spread of germs, which has been especially important during the global pandemic. As public awareness of hygiene and cleanliness continues to rise, non-alcohol-based sanitizers are expected to grow in popularity in response to shifting consumer preferences for healthier, environmentally-conscious alternatives.

In the Saudi Arabian market, hand sanitizers are distributed through various channels that ensure their wide availability to consumers. Pharmacy stores are among the most important retail outlets for hand sanitizers, with well-known chains like Al-Dawaa, Al-Ikhaa, Nahdi, and United Pharmacies leading the market. These pharmacies carry a broad range of hand sanitizers, including alcohol-based gels, foams, and sprays, from both local and international brands. Pharmacies in Saudi Arabia are trusted by consumers for health-related products, making them a key point of sale for hand sanitizers, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic, when demand surged for hygiene products. Supermarkets and hypermarkets are another significant distribution channel, with major retailers like Carrefour, Panda, Tamimi Markets, and Al-Othaim Supermarket offering a wide selection of hand sanitizers. These stores cater to a broad consumer base, with products available in different sizes and from a variety of brands, allowing customers to conveniently purchase sanitizers along with their regular grocery items. The pricing in supermarkets is competitive, and they are crucial in making hand sanitizers accessible to a large segment of the population. Online retail platforms have also become increasingly important in the Saudi market. E-commerce giants like Amazon Saudi Arabia, Noon, Souq, and Extra Stores provide a variety of hand sanitizers in different formulations, sizes, and brands. The convenience of online shopping, along with home delivery and the ability to compare prices and read reviews, has made these platforms a preferred choice for many consumers. Department stores, such as those in major shopping malls like Mall of Arabia and Kingdom Centre, also offer hand sanitizers, often focusing on premium brands or specific formulations that appeal to higher-end consumers. Smaller grocery stores in urban and residential areas, like Al-Dawaa and Al-Jazeera, contribute to the availability of hand sanitizers by providing essential hygiene products in local communities.

Considered in the report
• Estimated year: 2025
• Base year: 2024
• Historical year: 2019
• Forecasted year: 2030



Aspects covered in the report
• Market Size by Value for the period (2019-2030F)
• Market Share by Type
• Market Share by Content
• Market Share by Distribution Channel
• Market Share by Country
• Market Share by Company

By Type
• Gel
• Liquid
• Foam
• Other

By Distribution Channel
• Pharmacy Stores
• Supermarket/Hypermarkets
• Online Retail Channels
• Others (Departmental Stores, Grocery Stores)

The approach of the report:
We keep an eye on evolving markets and try to evaluate the potential of the products and services. If we find the market interesting, we start working on it and create the desired table of content, considering all aspects of the business. We start by creating separate questionnaires for C-level executives, national/regional sales personnel, company owners, dealers, distributors, and end-users. Once the questionnaires have been finalized, we start collecting the primary data (mostly through phone calls) and try to understand the market dynamics regionally or tier-wise. This process gives us in-depth details of the market, including all present companies, the top-performing products with reasons why they dominate; we get the details of new players and their innovative approaches; market trends; dynamics; and all the small details of the market.

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