Saudi Arabia Agriculture Biotechnology Market Overview, 2029

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, with its vast and varied geography encompassing deserts, mountains, and coastlines, provides a rich tapestry for the burgeoning biotechnology market to flourish. Its unique environment offers abundant resources for biotechnological research and development, from the exploration of extremophiles in the Arabian desert to the marine biodiversity along its Red Sea shores. Amidst this landscape lies a treasure trove of opportunities for both local and international players in the biotechnology sector. Saudi Arabia's tourism industry, anchored by its historical and cultural landmarks such as the ancient city of AlUla and the modern marvel of Riyadh's skyscrapers, provides a fertile ground for biotechnology to intersect with hospitality. With a vision to transform itself into a global tourism destination, Saudi Arabia stands poised to leverage biotechnology to not only preserve its natural heritage but also to pioneer new frontiers in eco-friendly travel and hospitality. At the heart of the Saudi Arabian biotechnology market lie its manufacturers, pioneering the development of cutting-edge biopharmaceuticals, agricultural biotechnology, and industrial enzymes. Companies like SaudiVax, with its focus on vaccine development, and Bioeconomy for Advanced Industrial Technologies (BIOECON), specializing in bio-based chemicals, are spearheading the kingdom's efforts to localize its biotech industry and reduce reliance on imports. With strategic investments in research infrastructure and partnerships with leading global biotech firms, these manufacturers are poised to propel Saudi Arabia to the forefront of biotechnological innovation. However, the true power of Saudi Arabia's biotechnology market lies in its consumer and industry key player’s segment. From healthcare giants like Saudi Arabian Oil Company (Saudi Aramco) to agricultural conglomerates such as Almarai, these industry leaders are driving demand for biotech solutions that address pressing societal challenges. As these key players continue to invest in research and development, they are reshaping the future of Saudi Arabia's economy and society through biotechnology. In conclusion, Saudi Arabia's biotechnology market represents a convergence of geography, tourism, manufacturers, and key industry players in a captivating tapestry of innovation and opportunity. From the vast deserts to the azure waters of the Red Sea, from the ancient wonders to the futuristic cities, the kingdom offers a canvas unlike any other for biotech to flourish.


According to the research report "Saudi Arabia Agriculture Biotechnology Market Overview, 2029," published by Bonafide Research, the Saudi Arabia Agriculture Biotechnology market is expected to add in a market size of more than USD 250 Million from 2024 to 2029. The growth prospects for Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market are nothing short of promising, poised to make significant contributions to the country's GDP and economy across its diverse regions. With its ambitious Vision 2030 agenda aimed at diversifying the economy away from oil dependence, the kingdom has identified agriculture as a key sector for innovation and growth. In regions like the fertile Al-Qassim Province and the verdant Asir Mountains, where traditional farming practices meet modern technology, biotechnology holds immense potential to revolutionize crop production, enhance food security, and drive economic prosperity. Manufacturers and companies at the forefront of this transformation are capitalizing on Saudi Arabia's vast agricultural resources and strategic geographic location to cultivate a thriving biotech agriculture sector. From multinational corporations like Monsanto and Bayer to homegrown agribusinesses like Almarai and National Agricultural Development Company (NADEC), investments in biotech research and development are fuelling innovation in crop genetics, precision agriculture, and sustainable farming practices. As these companies expand their operations across different regions of the kingdom, they are not only boosting agricultural productivity but also creating jobs and stimulating economic growth in rural communities. Moreover, Saudi Arabia's commitment to fostering a conducive business environment through regulatory reforms and investment incentives further bolsters the growth prospects for the biotechnology agriculture market. By streamlining approval processes for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and offering financial support for research and development initiatives, the government is signalling its unwavering support for biotech innovation in agriculture. This supportive ecosystem encourages collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies, fostering a dynamic ecosystem for knowledge exchange and technology transfer.

The report has been segmented on the basis of different types of criteria including Type, technology, crop-type, application. On the basis of types, In the dynamic landscape of Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market, certain segments stand out as leaders, driving growth and innovation across the kingdom's diverse regions. Among these, hybrid seeds emerge as a frontrunner, revolutionizing crop production and enhancing yield potential in regions like Al-Qassim and the Eastern Province. Manufacturers and key industry players such as Bayer Crop Science and Syngenta are leveraging advancements in biotechnology to develop high-yielding hybrids tailored to the kingdom's unique environmental conditions, from drought-resistant corn to disease-tolerant vegetables. Simultaneously, bio-pesticides are gaining traction as a sustainable alternative to chemical pesticides, particularly in regions like Tabuk and Jizan, where organic farming practices are gaining popularity. Companies like BASF and Dow AgroSciences are spearheading the development of bio-based pest management solutions, harnessing the power of natural compounds to protect crops while minimizing environmental impact. In tandem, the market for bio-fertilizers is experiencing steady growth, with companies like Yara International and Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) investing in research and development to promote soil health and nutrient efficiency. Finally, transgenic crops, although subject to regulatory scrutiny, hold immense potential for transforming agriculture in regions like Riyadh and Medina, where water scarcity and soil degradation present significant challenges. As key players navigate regulatory hurdles and invest in biotech innovation, the future of Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market shines bright, with hybrid seeds, bio-pesticides, bio-fertilizers, and transgenic crops leading the charge towards sustainable, high-yield farming practices across the kingdom's diverse regions.


On the basis of technology, In Saudi Arabia's dynamic biotechnology agriculture market, several technological fronts are advancing, each contributing to the kingdom's agricultural growth in its unique way. Genetic engineering stands out as a leading force, with its potential to enhance crop resilience, nutritional content, and yield. Companies like Saud Ivax and Bayer Crop Science are pioneering the development of genetically modified crops tailored to thrive in the kingdom's diverse climatic conditions, from the arid deserts of the Eastern Province to the fertile valleys of the Al-Qassim region. These innovations not only bolster food security but also drive economic growth by increasing agricultural productivity and reducing import dependency. Simultaneously, tissue culture technology is gaining traction, particularly in regions like Riyadh and Jeddah, where urbanization and limited arable land pose challenges to traditional farming methods. Through tissue culture propagation, companies such as Almarai and the National Center for Palms and Dates are revolutionizing plant propagation, enabling rapid multiplication of disease-free planting material and the preservation of genetic diversity. In the realm of vaccine development, Saudi Arabia's commitment to public health and disease prevention is driving investments in biotech companies like Saud Ivax and Riyadh Pharma. With a focus on combating livestock diseases such as foot-and-mouth disease and avian influenza, these companies are leveraging advanced biomanufacturing technologies to produce vaccines that safeguard the kingdom's agricultural assets. By ensuring the health and welfare of livestock populations across regions like Asir and Tabuk, vaccine technology plays a pivotal role in sustaining the livelihoods of rural communities and supporting the growth of the livestock industry. Furthermore, embryo rescue technology is emerging as a niche yet impactful tool in Saudi Arabia's agricultural landscape, particularly in regions like Al-Baha and Najran, where high-altitude farming and harsh environmental conditions pose challenges to conventional breeding methods. Companies like the Saudi Agricultural Development Company (SADCO) are harnessing embryo rescue techniques to rescue valuable genetic material from crosses that would otherwise fail to produce viable offspring. This technology not only accelerates breeding programs but also facilitates the introduction of new crop varieties adapted to specific regional conditions, thus promoting agricultural diversity and resilience.


On the basis of crop type, In the dynamic landscape of Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market, certain crop types stand out as leaders in both adoption and growth, namely soybean, maize, and cotton, each with its unique contributions to the country's agricultural sector across different regions. In the vast expanses of the Eastern Province, where arable land meets the coast, soybean cultivation has emerged as a front-runner, driven by its versatility as a protein-rich crop for both human consumption and animal feed. With companies like Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) leading the charge, investments in biotech research and development are fuelling innovations in soybean genetics and agronomic practices, boosting yields and enhancing food security. In the central region of Al-Qassim, known as the breadbasket of Saudi Arabia, maize takes centre stage, fuelling the kingdom's livestock industry and supporting a thriving poultry sector. Biotechnology advancements in maize breeding, such as drought tolerance and pest resistance, are empowering farmers to overcome environmental challenges and maximize productivity. Local manufacturers like the Saudi Grains Organization (SAGO) and international players like Bayer Crop Science are collaborating to introduce genetically modified maize varieties tailored to the region's climatic conditions, driving sustainable growth and economic development. Meanwhile, in the southwestern region of Jizan, cotton reigns supreme, offering a lucrative cash crop for farmers and bolstering the textile industry. With its subtropical climate and fertile soils, Jizan provides an ideal environment for cotton cultivation, supported by biotech solutions that enhance fibre quality and yield potential. Companies like Saudi Basic Industries Corporation (SABIC) and the Saudi Arabian Fertilizer Company (SAFCO) are investing in biotech research to develop genetically modified cotton varieties optimized for local conditions, positioning the region as a key player in the global cotton market. Across these diverse regions, the convergence of biotechnology, agriculture, and industry is driving innovation and growth, propelling Saudi Arabia towards self-sufficiency and sustainability in food production.




On the basis of Application, In Saudi Arabia's dynamic biotechnology agriculture market, the application of transgenic crops and animals stands out as a leading and rapidly growing segment, transforming the landscape of agricultural production across the country's diverse regions. With a focus on enhancing crop yields, improving resistance to pests and diseases, and conserving water resources, transgenic technologies are revolutionizing farming practices from the vast plains of the Eastern Province to the fertile valleys of Al-Qassim. Multinational manufacturers such as Monsanto, Syngenta, and Bayer, in partnership with local agribusinesses like Almarai and NADEC, are driving innovation in transgenic crop development, leveraging genetic engineering to tailor plant traits to the unique environmental conditions of each region. Simultaneously, antibiotic development is emerging as a critical area of focus in Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market, addressing the growing challenges of antimicrobial resistance and animal health management. Companies such as Saud Ivax and Al-Munajem Group are investing in the research and production of novel antimicrobial agents and vaccines, safeguarding livestock health and productivity across the kingdom's vast pastoral landscapes in regions like Al-Jouf and Najran. In addition to transgenic crops and antibiotic development, biofuels represent a burgeoning sector within Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market, leveraging renewable resources to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and mitigate environmental impact. With vast expanses of arid land and abundant sunlight, the kingdom is uniquely positioned to capitalize on biofuel production from feedstocks such as algae and camelina. Companies like Saudi Aramco and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) are leading the charge in biofuel research and development, harnessing cutting-edge biotechnologies to optimize production processes and maximize energy efficiency. Furthermore, flower culturing emerges as a niche yet promising application within Saudi Arabia's biotechnology agriculture market, catering to the growing demand for ornamental plants and horticultural products in urban centres like Riyadh and Jeddah. By leveraging tissue culture techniques and genetic modification, companies like Saudi Agriculture and Livestock Investment Company (SALIC) are pioneering new methods for propagation and cultivation, enhancing flower quality, and extending shelf life. With a focus on sustainable floriculture practices and aesthetic innovation, Saudi Arabia is poised to emerge as a regional hub for the production and export of high-value ornamental crops.

Considered in this report
• Historic year: 2018
• Base year: 2023
• Estimated year: 2024
• Forecast year: 2029

Aspects covered in this report
• Agriculture Biotechnology market Outlook with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

By Type
• Hybrid Seeds
• Transgenic Crops
• Bio-pesticides
• Bio-fertilizers

By Technology
• Genetic Engineering
• Tissue Culture
• Embryo Rescue
• Somatic Hybridization
• Molecular Diagnostics
• Vaccine
• Others

By Application
• Transgenic Crops & Animals
• Antibiotic Development
• Biofuels
• Vaccine Development
• Nutritional Supplements
• Flower Culturing
•
By Crop Type
• Soybean
• Maize
• Cotton
• Others (Canola, alfalfa, sugar beets, potatoes, papaya, squash, apples)

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 Agriculture Biotechnology 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.