
Study Period | 2019 - 2030 |
Base Year For Estimation | 2024 |
Forecast Data Period | 2025 - 2030 |
Market Size (2025) | USD 734.09 Million |
Market Size (2030) | USD 928.46 Million |
CAGR (2025 - 2030) | 4.81 % |
Market Concentration | Low |
Major Players![]() *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order |
MEA Paper Cups Market Analysis
The Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size is estimated at USD 734.09 million in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 928.46 million by 2030, at a CAGR of 4.81% during the forecast period (2025-2030).
The Middle East and Africa paper cups market is experiencing significant transformation driven by evolving consumer preferences and robust growth in the hospitality sector. Dubai's hospitality sector has shown remarkable recovery, with average occupancy rates increasing to 73% in 2022, supported by a substantial 97% year-over-year rise in international visitors reaching 14.36 million. The region's commitment to tourism development and infrastructure expansion has created new opportunities for food service packaging, particularly in premium locations and tourist destinations. The growing influence of Western culture on the young and millennial population has also contributed to changing consumption patterns, with an increasing preference for branded coffee shops and quick-service restaurants.
The market is witnessing a significant shift toward environmental responsibility and sustainable practices across the region. In the UAE, a nationwide ban on single-use plastic bags will take effect from January 1, 2024, followed by restrictions on plastic or foam products including cups, plates, and cutlery from January 2026. South Africa has demonstrated a strong commitment to recycling initiatives, achieving a paper recovery rate of 61.4% in 2021, according to the Paper Manufacturers Association of South Africa (PAMSA). These regulatory changes and sustainability initiatives are reshaping the industry landscape and driving innovation in sustainable paper cups and recyclable paper cups solutions.
Infrastructure development and hospitality expansion continue to be key growth drivers in the region. The UAE hotel industry is projected to reach 251,000 keys by 2030, according to benchmarking company STR, while Qatar's branded coffee shop sector has shown remarkable growth with the addition of 51 new stores in 2022, bringing the total to 400 outlets. This expansion in hospitality infrastructure, coupled with the region's focus on tourism development, is creating sustained demand for disposable cups and biodegradable paper cups solutions. The market is also benefiting from the increasing adoption of food delivery services, with approximately 82% of UAE food and beverage companies now listed on delivery service apps.
The competitive landscape is evolving with significant investments in manufacturing capabilities and technological advancement. Local manufacturers are expanding their production facilities and adopting advanced technologies to meet the growing demand for high-quality paper cups. Major international brands are also establishing regional manufacturing facilities to better serve the market, as evidenced by recent investments in Qatar and other strategic locations. The industry is witnessing an increased focus on product customization and branding capabilities, with manufacturers investing in advanced printing technologies and innovative design solutions to meet the diverse needs of quick-service restaurants, coffee shops, and other food service establishments.
MEA Paper Cups Market Trends
Rising Demand for On-the-Go Consumption of Beverages
The Middle East and Africa region is experiencing a significant transformation in beverage consumption patterns, driven by changing consumer lifestyles and the rapid expansion of food service outlets. The growing influence of Western culture, particularly among young Middle Eastern urbanites, has led to a surge in café culture and quick-service restaurants that primarily serve on-the-go beverages. This trend is particularly evident in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, where more than one-third of mall visitors specifically come for food and beverages, creating a substantial demand for disposable paper cups. The expansion of international coffee chains further validates this trend, with Starbucks achieving a milestone of 1,000 locations in the MEA region after 22 years of operations, while Peet's Coffee marked its entry into the Middle Eastern market with its first branch in Dubai in January 2023.
The demographic composition of the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia where 70% of the population is under 30 years old, has created a robust market for on-the-go beverage consumption. This young population, combined with the region's growing tourism sector, has led to increased demand for convenient beverage options. The trend is further supported by the extensive development of infrastructure, including new roads, airports, malls, and entertainment centers across the Middle East, which has enabled numerous food and beverage chains to establish their presence. The hospitality sector's growth, exemplified by Qatar's aim to attract 6 million annual visitors by 2030 and the UAE hotel industry's projection to reach 251,000 keys by 2030, indicates a sustained increase in demand for on-the-go beverage consumption and consequently, paper cups.
Sustainability Measures, Coupled with Recent Innovations, Have Played a Role in Extending Shelf Life of Products
The paper cup industry in the Middle East and Africa is witnessing a significant transformation driven by sustainability initiatives and technological innovations that enhance product performance and longevity. Major industry players are investing in research and development to create coffee paper cups that not only meet environmental standards but also provide improved functionality and durability. These innovations include advanced coating technologies that prevent moisture absorption while maintaining the cup's structural integrity, and new manufacturing processes that extend the product's shelf life without compromising its eco-friendly characteristics. The industry's focus on sustainability is particularly timely, as several countries in the region, including the UAE, have announced comprehensive bans on single-use plastics, with regulations set to take effect from 2024 onwards.
The integration of innovative technologies in coffee paper cup manufacturing has resulted in products that better serve the needs of both consumers and businesses while maintaining environmental responsibility. Companies are developing new solutions that significantly reduce dependence on fossil oil-based materials while offering enhanced performance characteristics. For instance, manufacturers are now producing hot beverage paper cups with plant-based linings and implementing new sealing technologies that improve product durability and shelf life. These advancements are particularly crucial in the Middle East's climate, where high temperatures and humidity pose unique challenges to packaging materials. The industry's commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated through initiatives like Starbucks' reusable "Cup-Share" program, which will be implemented across all 3,840 stores in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa by 2025, showcasing how innovation and sustainability measures are reshaping the future of beverage packaging in the region.
Segment Analysis: By Cup Type
Hot Paper Cup Segment in Middle East & Africa Paper Cup Market
The hot beverage paper cups segment dominates the Middle East and Africa paper cups market, commanding approximately 59% market share in 2024. This dominance is driven by the region's robust coffee culture and expanding quick-service restaurant sector. The segment's prominence is further reinforced by the growing population, extensive commercial infrastructure development, and high consumer spending capacity across the Middle East region. Major international coffee chains continue to expand their presence, particularly in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where premium and specialist operators are raising standards for quality and service. The segment is also experiencing the fastest growth with a projected growth rate of around 5% through 2029, supported by increasing health and hygiene consciousness among consumers who prefer disposable paper cups over reusable options. The growth is further bolstered by the rising trend of takeaway services and the expanding corporate sector, where cafeterias and breakout zones predominantly use disposable hot beverage paper cups.

Cold Paper Cup Segment in Middle East & Africa Paper Cup Market
The cold paper drinking cups segment plays a vital role in the Middle East and African food service industry, particularly driven by the region's hot climate and growing demand for cold beverages. These paper beverage cups have gained significant popularity due to changing lifestyles and hectic schedules, offering convenience through their disposable nature. The segment's growth is supported by rapid urbanization and the robust spending capacity of Middle Eastern consumers, coupled with the increasing popularity of dine-out establishments, quick restaurants, and cafes. The demand is further amplified by the rising consumption of soft drinks, smoothies, and other cold beverages, especially in Saudi Arabia, which represents the largest soft drink sector by volume and value in the Middle East. The segment's expansion is also influenced by the growing adoption of intelligent vending machines in malls and corporate offices, which predominantly use paper beverage cups for cold beverage dispensing.
Segment Analysis: By Application
Quick Service Restaurant Segment in Middle East & Africa Paper Cup Market
The Quick Service Restaurant (QSR) segment dominates the Middle East & Africa paper cups market, commanding approximately 70% of the total market share in 2024, while also exhibiting the strongest growth trajectory with a projected growth rate of around 5% through 2029. This segment's dominance is primarily driven by the rapid expansion of international and local fast-food chains across the region, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and South Africa. The increasing influence of Western culture on the young and millennial population has significantly boosted the uptake of fast food and beverages, leading to higher paper cup consumption. The growing trend of food delivery services, with over 80% of UAE food and beverage companies now listed on delivery service apps, has further accelerated the demand for paper cups in this segment. Additionally, the shift in consumer preferences towards convenient and on-the-go dining options, coupled with the rising number of working professionals, has substantially contributed to the segment's market leadership.
Remaining Segments in Application Market
The institutional and other applications segments collectively represent significant opportunities in the Middle East & Africa paper cups market. The institutional segment, which includes corporate offices, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities, has been experiencing steady growth due to the increasing number of commercial establishments and the growing emphasis on hygiene and sustainability in these settings. The expansion of academic institutions, particularly in countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE, along with the rapid growth of corporate infrastructure, has been driving demand in this segment. The other applications segment, encompassing retail spaces, airports, railway stations, and hotels, has been gaining traction due to the robust tourism sector and infrastructure development across the region. The increasing number of shopping malls, entertainment centers, and transportation hubs has created additional demand channels for paper cup consumption in these sectors.
Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market Geography Segment Analysis
Paper Cup Market in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia dominates the Middle East and Africa paper cup market, commanding approximately 24% market share in 2024, while also demonstrating the strongest growth trajectory with a projected CAGR of around 5% from 2024 to 2029. The kingdom's paper cup market is experiencing robust expansion driven by the increasing adoption of Western dining culture and the rising use of social media, which has exposed a significant proportion of Saudi society to global food service trends. The country's changing social landscape, particularly the greater inclusion of women in the workplace and a predominantly young demographic with over 70% of the population under 30, has created substantial opportunities for the quick-service restaurant industry. The government's Vision 2030 initiative strongly emphasizes sustainability, aligning perfectly with the growing demand for sustainable paper cups. Major international coffee chains, including Starbucks, Costa Coffee, and Tim Hortons, continue to expand their presence, driving significant demand for disposable cups across the kingdom.
Paper Cup Market in United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates represents a crucial market in the region's commercial paper cups industry, driven by its position as a global tourism and business hub. The country's hospitality sector remains on a solid growth path, with an ambitious expansion plan for hotel rooms and food service establishments. The UAE's commitment to sustainability is evident in its recent regulatory changes, particularly the upcoming nationwide ban on single-use plastics, which is creating significant opportunities for paper cup manufacturers. The country's population dynamics, where foreigners make up around 80% of the total population, has created a diverse and sophisticated market for food and beverage services. The emirate's robust coffee shop culture, exemplified by the continuous entry of international chains and local specialty coffee shops, has been a major driver of paper cup consumption. The UAE's strategic position as a regional headquarters for international corporations has also contributed to steady demand from corporate offices and institutional sectors.
Paper Cup Market in South Africa
South Africa's paper cup market has evolved significantly, positioning itself as a key player in the African continent's sustainable packaging landscape. The country has demonstrated strong commitment to environmental sustainability, with a robust paper recycling infrastructure and growing consumer awareness about eco-friendly packaging solutions. The rapid urbanization and increasing health consciousness among South African consumers have led to significant changes in consumption patterns, particularly in the food and beverage sector. The country's quick-service restaurant segment has shown remarkable growth, with international chains establishing a strong presence across major cities. The market has also benefited from the country's growing coffee culture, with both international and local coffee shop chains expanding their footprint. South Africa's paper cup packaging sector has shown impressive technological advancement, with local manufacturers investing in modern production facilities to meet the increasing demand for high-quality, sustainable paper cups.
Paper Cup Market in Other Countries
The paper cup market in other Middle Eastern and African countries, including Nigeria, Qatar, Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya, presents diverse growth opportunities shaped by unique regional dynamics. These markets are characterized by varying levels of economic development, urbanization rates, and environmental regulations. The growth in these regions is primarily driven by the expansion of international food service chains, increasing tourism activities, and growing awareness about sustainable packaging solutions. Countries like Qatar have seen significant market development due to major international events and infrastructure development, while markets like Nigeria and Kenya are experiencing growth due to rapid urbanization and changing consumer preferences. The institutional segment, particularly in educational institutions and corporate offices, continues to be a significant driver of disposable cups demand across these regions. These markets are also witnessing increased investment in local manufacturing capabilities, supported by government initiatives to promote sustainable packaging solutions.
MEA Paper Cups Industry Overview
Top Companies in Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market
The market features established players like Huhtamaki, ENPI Group, Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group, and Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC leading the competitive landscape. Companies are increasingly focusing on sustainable product innovations, particularly in developing recyclable paper cups and compostable paper cups solutions to align with growing environmental concerns. Operational agility is demonstrated through investments in advanced manufacturing facilities and automation technologies to improve production efficiency and quality control. Strategic moves include expanding production capabilities across different regions to gain competitive advantages and strengthen market presence. Companies are also pursuing vertical integration strategies to better control their supply chains and reduce dependence on external suppliers. The industry witnesses continuous product development efforts in areas such as double-wall technology, ripple wall designs, and customized printing capabilities to meet evolving customer preferences.
Market Structure Shows Regional Leadership Dynamics
The Middle East and Africa paper cups market exhibits a moderately fragmented structure with a mix of global conglomerates and regional specialists. Global players like Huhtamaki and Graphic Packaging International leverage their technological expertise and extensive distribution networks to maintain market positions, while regional players such as ENPI Group and Gulf East Paper & Plastic Industries focus on local market knowledge and customer relationships. The market demonstrates a gradual trend toward consolidation, particularly in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, where larger players are acquiring smaller manufacturers to expand their production capabilities and geographic reach.
The competitive dynamics are characterized by strong regional variations, with different players dominating specific geographic markets. Local manufacturers maintain significant market share in their respective regions due to their understanding of local preferences and established distribution networks. Market entry barriers are moderately high due to the need for substantial capital investment in manufacturing facilities and the importance of established relationships with raw material suppliers and end-users. The industry sees strategic partnerships and joint ventures as key methods for market expansion, particularly for international players seeking to strengthen their presence in specific regions.
Innovation and Sustainability Drive Future Success
Success in the market increasingly depends on companies' ability to innovate while maintaining cost competitiveness. Incumbent players are focusing on developing value-added products with enhanced features such as better insulation properties and improved aesthetics while maintaining price competitiveness. The ability to offer customized solutions, particularly in printing and design capabilities, has become a crucial differentiator. Companies are also investing in research and development to improve product performance and sustainability credentials, while simultaneously optimizing their production processes to maintain competitive pricing.
For contenders looking to gain market share, the focus needs to be on developing niche market segments and establishing strong relationships with key end-users, particularly in the quick-service restaurant sector. The threat of substitution from alternative materials remains a significant consideration, driving the need for continuous product innovation and cost optimization. Regulatory changes, particularly those related to environmental sustainability and food safety, are reshaping the competitive landscape and creating opportunities for companies that can quickly adapt to new requirements. Success in the market increasingly requires a balanced approach between operational efficiency, product innovation, and sustainability initiatives. Additionally, the integration of paper cup packaging solutions, including the development of innovative paper cup lid designs, is becoming increasingly important to meet consumer demands and regulatory standards.
MEA Paper Cups Market Leaders
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Enpi Group
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Huhtamaki Group
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Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group
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Golden Paper Cups Manufacturing LLC
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MAIMOON Papers Industry LLC
- *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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MEA Paper Cups Market News
- November 2022: HotpackGlobal, the UAE-based global leader in disposable food packaging products, launched its manufacturing plant in Qatar. The plant is the 15th Hotpack-owned and operated factory worldwide, reflecting the company's global vision to become a global food packaging brand leader by 2030. The manufacturing plant is located in Doha's new industrial area, specializing in various Hotpackpaper products ranging from folding and corrugated cartons to paper bags and cups.
- September 2022: Huhtamaki and StoraEnso launched a paper cup recycling initiative. The Cup Collective program aims to recycle used paper cups on an industrial scale and provide consumers and businesses convenient access to used paper cups, which can then be renewed into valuable recycled raw material.
MEA Paper Cups Market Report - Table of Contents
1. INTRODUCTION
- 1.1 Study Assumption and Market Definition
- 1.2 Scope of the study
2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
4. MARKET INSIGHTS
- 4.1 Market Overview
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4.2 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
- 4.2.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 4.2.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 4.2.3 Threat of New Entrants
- 4.2.4 Threat of Substitutes Products
- 4.2.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
- 4.3 Industry Ecosystem Analysis
- 4.4 Import And Export Analysis
5. MARKET DYNAMICS
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5.1 Market Drivers
- 5.1.1 Rising Demand For on-the-go Consumption of Beverages
- 5.1.2 Sustainability Measures Coupled with Recent Innovations have Played a Role in Shelf Life of Products
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5.2 Market Challenges
- 5.2.1 Ongoing Market Fragmentatio and the Dependence on Materials Expected to Affect Margins
6. MARKET SEGMENTATION
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6.1 By Cup Type
- 6.1.1 Hot Paper Cup
- 6.1.2 Cold Paper Cup
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6.2 By Application
- 6.2.1 Quick Service Restaurants
- 6.2.2 Institutional
- 6.2.3 Other Applications
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6.3 By Country
- 6.3.1 United Arab Emirates
- 6.3.2 Saudi Arabia
- 6.3.3 South Africa
- 6.3.4 Nigeria
- 6.3.5 Rest of Middle East and Africa
7. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE
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7.1 Company Profiles
- 7.1.1 Enpi Group
- 7.1.2 Huhtamaki Group
- 7.1.3 Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group
- 7.1.4 Golden Paper Cups Manufacturing LLC
- 7.1.5 MAIMOON Papers Industry LLC
- 7.1.6 Hotpack Packaging Industries LLC
- 7.1.7 Graphic Packaging International
- 7.1.8 Saqr Pack
- 7.1.9 Arkan Mfg Paper Cup Company
- 7.1.10 Saham Group
- 7.1.11 Ultracare LLC
- 7.1.12 Bony Packaging
- 7.1.13 Pack- Zone
- 7.1.14 Detpak South Africa (Pty) Ltd
- 7.1.15 Alfa Pack
- 7.1.16 Falcon Pack
- *List Not Exhaustive
8. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS
9. FUTURE OF THE MARKET
MEA Paper Cups Industry Segmentation
A paper cup is a disposable cup lined or coated with synthetic or bioplastic polymers to prevent liquid from soaking through the paper. The study tracks the demand for paper-based cups in terms of sales offered by various vendors operating in the Middle East & Africa region. The scope of the study is limited to paper cups only. The impact of COVID-19 has also been considered for current market estimation and future growth projections. The study on the MEA paper cups market tracks the demand for paper cups and tracks the market size in terms of revenue for the respective end-user industry verticals in the respective countries from the listed product types.
Middle-East and Africa paper cups market is segmented by cup type (hot paper cups and cold paper cups), application (quick service restaurants, institutional, and other applications), and geography (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Nigeria, and Rest of Middle East & Africa)(Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, South Africa, Nigeria, and Rest of Middle East & Africa).
The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value (USD million) for all the above segments.
By Cup Type | Hot Paper Cup |
Cold Paper Cup | |
By Application | Quick Service Restaurants |
Institutional | |
Other Applications | |
By Country | United Arab Emirates |
Saudi Arabia | |
South Africa | |
Nigeria | |
Rest of Middle East and Africa |
MEA Paper Cups Market Research FAQs
How big is the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
The Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size is expected to reach USD 734.09 million in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 4.81% to reach USD 928.46 million by 2030.
What is the current Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size?
In 2025, the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size is expected to reach USD 734.09 million.
Who are the key players in Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market?
Enpi Group, Huhtamaki Group, Gulf East Paper & Plastic Group, Golden Paper Cups Manufacturing LLC and MAIMOON Papers Industry LLC are the major companies operating in the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market.
What years does this Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?
In 2024, the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size was estimated at USD 698.78 million. The report covers the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.
Our Best Selling Reports
Middle-East and Africa Paper Cups Market Research
Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the paper cups industry, drawing on our extensive experience in packaging sector research. Our latest report explores the increasing demand for disposable cups and paper drinking cups. We focus particularly on the hot beverage paper cups and coffee paper cups segments. The analysis highlights emerging trends in sustainable paper cups, including biodegradable paper cups, recyclable paper cups, and compostable paper cups, which reflect the industry's growing environmental consciousness.
Stakeholders across the value chain benefit from our detailed examination of paper beverage cups applications. These range from commercial paper cups to takeaway paper cups solutions. The report offers comprehensive insights into related products, such as paper cup lid options and paper cup sleeve innovations, while addressing paper cup packaging considerations. Our report, available in an easy-to-download PDF format, provides a detailed analysis of disposable paper cups market dynamics. This helps businesses make informed decisions in this evolving sector.