Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market Size and Share

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market (2025 - 2030)
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market Analysis by Mordor Intelligence

The chocolate market in Saudi Arabia is projected to grow from USD 1.23 billion in 2025 to USD 1.53 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 4.46% during this period. The market's growth is driven by he rise in religious tourism, the strong cultural tradition of gifting, and the increasing adoption of Western snacking habits. Advancements in cold-chain infrastructure, improvements in premium packaging, and innovations such as date-based chocolate fillings are transforming the competitive landscape. By product type, dark chocolate is gaining popularity due to its perceived health benefits. In terms of form, pralines and truffles are gaining popularity as they align with the gifting culture. The premium price segment is growing faster than the mass-market segment, reflecting a shift in consumer preferences toward higher-quality products. Plant-based ingredients are also gaining traction as consumers seek healthier and more sustainable options. Online retail is emerging as a significant distribution channel, driven by the convenience it offers to consumers. The Saudi Arabian chocolate market is moderately consolidated, with a few key players dominating the competitive landscape.

Key Report Takeaways

  • By product type, milk and white chocolate held 68.45% of the 2024 volume, while dark chocolate is projected to expand at a 5.73% CAGR through 2030.
  • By form, tablets and bars led the Saudi Arabian chocolate market with a 64.36% share in 2024; pralines and truffles are forecast to grow at a 5.83% CAGR through 2030.
  • By price range, mass-market offerings accounted for 72.84% of 2024 sales, while premium chocolate is projected to advance at a 6.48% CAGR between 2025 and 2030.
  • By ingredient type, dairy-based formulations accounted for 65.92% of the 2024 volume, whereas plant-based chocolate is expected to grow at a 5.39% CAGR through 2030.
  • By distribution channel, supermarkets/hypermarkets maintained 60.82% volume share in 2024; online retail is projected to expand at a 9.26% CAGR through 2030.

Segment Analysis

By Product Type: Dark Chocolate Gains on Health Halo

Milk and white chocolate are the most preferred types in the Saudi Arabia market, contributing to 68.45% of total sales in 2024. The local preference for sweeter flavors, combined with the easy availability of these chocolates in hypermarkets, convenience stores, and gift shops, drives this strong preference. Brands also play a key role by consistently introducing new flavors and enhancing packaging to attract consumers. Festive seasons like Ramadan and Eid significantly boost the demand for these chocolates, making them a major source of revenue for manufacturers.

Dark chocolate, although holding a smaller share of the market, is steadily gaining traction as more consumers opt for healthier alternatives. This segment is expected to grow at a 5.73% CAGR through 2030, fueled by increasing demand for chocolates with higher cocoa content, antioxidant benefits, and lower sugar levels. Government regulations, such as the Ministry of Health’s front-of-pack labeling, have made nutritional information more transparent, encouraging healthier choices. Retailers are expanding their dark chocolate selections to cater to urban, health-conscious consumers who view it as a more guilt-free indulgence.

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market: Market Share by Product Type
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.
Get Detailed Market Forecasts at the Most Granular Levels
Download PDF

By Form: Pralines and Truffles Ride Gifting Wave

Tablets and bars are the most popular chocolate types in Saudi Arabia, making up 64.36% of the total demand in 2024. Their widespread popularity is due to their affordability and easy availability in stores like hypermarkets and convenience outlets. These chocolates are suitable for both casual snacking and gifting, making them a versatile choice for consumers. Regular promotional offers and a steady supply further enhance their appeal. Their familiarity and accessibility ensure they remain a favorite among people of all age groups, securing their strong position in the market.

Pralines and truffles, while holding a smaller share of the market, are expected to grow at a faster rate with a projected CAGR of 5.83% through 2030. This growth is largely driven by the increasing demand for premium chocolates, especially for gifting occasions. Their elegant packaging and luxurious designs make them highly appealing to consumers looking for high-quality options. Additionally, their visually attractive presentation aligns with social media trends, such as unboxing videos, which adds to their popularity. As consumers continue to seek indulgent and premium chocolate experiences, pralines and truffles are well-positioned for significant growth in the coming years.

By Price Range: Premium Segment Outpaces Mass Market

In 2024, mass-market chocolate products made up 72.84% of the total market volume, highlighting their strong popularity in Saudi Arabia. These chocolates are widely available in supermarkets, hypermarkets, and convenience stores, making them easily accessible for everyday purchases. Their affordability and frequent discounts make them a practical choice for families and individuals looking for budget-friendly options. The familiarity of well-known brands and their consistent availability through a strong distribution network further reinforce their dominance in the market.

Premium chocolate, although a smaller segment, is expected to grow much faster, with a projected CAGR of 6.48% through 2030. This growth is driven by increasing demand for chocolates made with high-quality ingredients and presented in luxurious packaging. Premium chocolates are often chosen for gifting, as they align with the cultural tradition of giving thoughtful and elegant gifts. Social media trends showcasing luxury products have also influenced consumer preferences, encouraging more people to opt for premium chocolates. As a result, this segment is expected to capture a larger share of the market's value in the years to come.

By Ingredient Type: Plant-Based Gains Traction

Dairy-based chocolate recipes accounted for 65.92% of the total market volume in 2024, making them the most popular choice among consumers in Saudi Arabia. This preference is largely due to the creamy and rich texture that dairy-based chocolates provide, which aligns well with local tastes. These products are widely available in retail outlets, including supermarkets and gift stores, ensuring easy access for consumers. Leading brands continue to focus on dairy-based chocolates to meet the strong demand and maintain their competitive edge in the market.

Meanwhile, plant-based chocolates, though currently a smaller segment, are expected to grow at a CAGR of 5.39% through 2030. This growth is being driven by increasing awareness of lactose intolerance and a gradual shift toward vegan or dairy-free diets. Consumers are showing interest in alternatives made from ingredients like oats, almonds, and coconuts, especially in premium product categories. While dairy-based chocolates are likely to remain dominant, the rising focus on health and wellness is creating opportunities for plant-based options to attract younger and more health-conscious buyers.

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market: Market Share by Ingredient Type
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.

Note: Segment shares of all individual segments available upon report purchase

Get Detailed Market Forecasts at the Most Granular Levels
Download PDF

By Distribution Channel: Online Retail Surges

In 2024, supermarkets/hypermarkets were the leading channels for chocolate sales in Saudi Arabia, accounting for 60.82% of the total market volume. These stores are highly preferred due to their convenient locations and the wide variety of chocolate products they offer. They attract customers with features like refrigerated displays that keep chocolates fresh, promotional discounts that make products more affordable, and dedicated sections for seasonal gifting. Placing chocolates near checkout counters encourages shoppers to make impulse purchases, further driving sales in these outlets.

Although online sales currently make up a smaller portion of the market, they are expected to grow significantly, with a projected CAGR of 9.26% through 2030. This growth is fueled by the increasing use of smartphones, which makes online shopping more accessible, as well as faster delivery options like same-day and next-day services. Subscription models for premium and specialty chocolates are also gaining popularity, offering consumers convenience and variety. As more people prioritize ease and flexibility, online platforms are likely to attract younger, tech-savvy shoppers who enjoy browsing and purchasing chocolates from the comfort of their homes.

Geography Analysis

The cities of Makkah, Madinah, and Jeddah experience a sharp rise in chocolate demand during the Ramadan and Hajj seasons, largely due to the large number of religious tourists. Retail kiosks in these areas often charge higher prices, and halal certification is essential for all products sold. In contrast, Riyadh and the Eastern Province dominate premium chocolate sales, driven by higher income levels and a significant expatriate population. Consumers in these regions prefer luxury items, such as single-origin chocolate bars and boutique truffles, which can cost up to SAR 150 per box. In 2024, Saudi Arabia imported over 123 million kilograms of chocolate, highlighting its reliance on imports despite efforts under Vision 2030 to boost local food production through investments of SAR 1 trillion in manufacturing.

To reduce dependency on imports, companies are investing in local production facilities. For instance, Nestlé is set to open a new factory in Jeddah’s Third Industrial City in 2025, with an initial production capacity of 15,000 tonnes. However, maintaining product quality in Saudi Arabia’s extreme heat remains a challenge, increasing the need for advanced cold-chain logistics. To address this, over USD 500 million has been invested in refrigerated logistics infrastructure by both the public and private sectors. The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has introduced digital systems like Food Import and Registration System (FIRS) and FASEH to speed up import clearance processes. While these systems improve efficiency and safety standards, they also require manufacturers to meet stricter compliance regulations.

Industrial parks across the country are attracting more confectionery projects, further supporting local production. Notable examples include IFFCO’s expansion in Dammam, KDD’s USD 100 million plant in Sudair, and AlBabtain Food’s planned chocolate factory. These initiatives reflect a growing focus on increasing domestic manufacturing capacity. However, the industry still heavily depends on imported cocoa from regions like West Africa and Latin America. This reliance on global suppliers makes the market vulnerable to price fluctuations, meaning that achieving full supply-chain independence remains a long-term objective for Saudi Arabia’s chocolate industry.

Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabian chocolate market is moderately consolidated, with a mix of global leaders and regional players competing for market share. Ferrero has expanded its operations in Saudi Arabia, increasing its workforce from 12 to 400 employees through a joint venture with Ismail Abudawood. This collaboration has enabled Ferrero to better understand local regulations and cultural preferences, giving it a competitive edge. Barry Callebaut, on the other hand, has adopted a cost-plus pricing model, transferring the rise in cocoa prices directly to customers. Despite global margin challenges, this approach has driven strong volume growth in the Middle East.

Regional brands like Aani & Dani and Patchi are making a mark by blending Arabic flavors with Swiss-style chocolate-making techniques, which resonate well with Saudi Arabia’s strong gifting culture. Pladis has also strengthened its presence by establishing a new hub in Jeddah, enhancing the supply chains for its brands, including Godiva and McVitie’s. This strategic move highlights Pladis’ ambition to compete in both the premium chocolate and biscuit segments. Private-label chocolates from hypermarkets are intensifying competition by offering products at lower prices than branded options, often using loyalty programs to attract customers.

Although technology adoption in the Saudi chocolate market is still in its early stages, companies are beginning to leverage data-driven strategies to improve efficiency. For example, Barry Callebaut has streamlined its product portfolio by removing low-performing stock-keeping units (SKUs). This optimization helps reduce costs and enhances service levels, ensuring a more efficient supply chain. As competition grows, both global and local players are focusing on innovation, operational improvements, and customer-centric strategies to strengthen their position in the Saudi Arabia chocolate market.

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Industry Leaders

  1. Ferrero International SA

  2. Mars Incorporated

  3. Nestlé SA

  4. Mondelēz International Inc.

  5. Patchi LLC

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market Concentration
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.
Need More Details on Market Players and Competitors?
Download PDF

Recent Industry Developments

  • November 2022: Nestlé announced plans to invest SAR 7 billion in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the coming ten years in a strategic move to grow its longstanding business in the country, beginning with up to USD 99.6 million to establish a cutting-edge manufacturing plant – which is set to open in 2025.
  • November 2022: Barry Callebaut launched 100% dairy-free and plant-based chocolate NXT in Saudi Arabia. NXT is the first-of-its-kind dairy-free, lactose-free, nut-free, allergen-free, 100% plant-based, and vegan dark and milk chocolate to respond to the growing demand for plant-based foods across the country.

Table of Contents for Saudi Arabia Chocolate Industry Report

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET LANDSCAPE

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Industry Trend Analysis
    • 4.2.1 Ingredient Analysis
    • 4.2.2 Consumer Behaviour Analysis
    • 4.2.3 Regulatory Framework
    • 4.2.4 Value Chain and Distribution Channel Analysis
  • 4.3 Market Drivers
    • 4.3.1 Increasing acceptance of Western snacking habits
    • 4.3.2 Innovations with date, saffron, pistachio-chocolate hybrids due to Saudi Arabia’s cultural connection
    • 4.3.3 Celebrity and influencer endorsements shaping brand perception
    • 4.3.4 Strong gifting culture and festive occasions
    • 4.3.5 Strengthening demand for luxury packaging
    • 4.3.6 Pilgrim tourism during Hajj and Umrah boost seasonal spikes
  • 4.4 Market Restraints
    • 4.4.1 Growing consumer preference for low-sugar and low-calorie diets
    • 4.4.2 Storage and logistics costs due to extremely high temperatures in Saudi Arabia
    • 4.4.3 Competition from healthier snack alternatives
    • 4.4.4 Cultural preferences for traditional sweets
  • 4.5 Porter’s Five Forces
    • 4.5.1 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.5.2 Bargaining Power of Buyers
    • 4.5.3 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.5.4 Threat of Substitute Products
    • 4.5.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry

5. MARKET SIZE AND GROWTH FORECASTS (VALUE AND VOLUME)

  • 5.1 By Product Type
    • 5.1.1 Dark Chocolate
    • 5.1.2 Milk and White Chocolate
  • 5.2 By Form
    • 5.2.1 Tablets and Bars
    • 5.2.2 Molded Blocks
    • 5.2.3 Pralines and Truffles
    • 5.2.4 Other Forms
  • 5.3 By Price Range
    • 5.3.1 Mass
    • 5.3.2 Premium
  • 5.4 By Ingredient Type
    • 5.4.1 Dairy-Based
    • 5.4.2 Plant-Based
    • 5.4.3 Single Origin
  • 5.5 By Distribution Channel
    • 5.5.1 Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
    • 5.5.2 Online Retail Stores
    • 5.5.3 Convenience Stores
    • 5.5.4 Other Channels

6. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 6.1 Market Concentration
  • 6.2 Strategic Moves
  • 6.3 Market Share Analysis
  • 6.4 Company Profiles (includes Global-level Overview, Market-level Overview, Core Segments, Financials (if available), Strategic Information, Market Rank/Share, Products and Services, Recent Developments)
    • 6.4.1 Aani & Dani
    • 6.4.2 Al Nassma Chocolate LLC
    • 6.4.3 Badr Chocolate Factory
    • 6.4.4 Barry Callebaut
    • 6.4.5 Bateel International
    • 6.4.6 Chocoladefabriken Lindt & Sprüngli AG
    • 6.4.7 Ferrero International SA
    • 6.4.8 Naeem Foods Sweets Factory
    • 6.4.9 Yıldız Holding
    • 6.4.10 The Hershey's Company
    • 6.4.11 IFFCO Group
    • 6.4.12 Luxury Taste Company
    • 6.4.13 Mars Incorporated
    • 6.4.14 Mondelēz International Inc.
    • 6.4.15 Nestlé SA
    • 6.4.16 Notions Group
    • 6.4.17 Patchi LLC
    • 6.4.18 Shirin Asal Food Industrial Group
    • 6.4.19 Gandour
    • 6.4.20 Albabtain Food

7. MARKET OPPORTUNITIES AND FUTURE OUTLOOK

You Can Purchase Parts Of This Report. Check Out Prices For Specific Sections
Get Price Break-up Now

Saudi Arabia Chocolate Market Report Scope

Dark Chocolate, Milk and White Chocolate are covered as segments by Product Type. Tablets and Bars, Molded Blocks, Pralines and Truffles, and Other Forms are covered as segments by Form. Mass and Premium are covered as segments by Price Range. Convenience Stores, Online Retail Stores, Supermarkets/Hypermarkets, and Other Channels are covered as segments by Distribution Channel.

By Product Type
Dark Chocolate
Milk and White Chocolate
By Form
Tablets and Bars
Molded Blocks
Pralines and Truffles
Other Forms
By Price Range
Mass
Premium
By Ingredient Type
Dairy-Based
Plant-Based
Single Origin
By Distribution Channel
Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Online Retail Stores
Convenience Stores
Other Channels
By Product Type Dark Chocolate
Milk and White Chocolate
By Form Tablets and Bars
Molded Blocks
Pralines and Truffles
Other Forms
By Price Range Mass
Premium
By Ingredient Type Dairy-Based
Plant-Based
Single Origin
By Distribution Channel Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
Online Retail Stores
Convenience Stores
Other Channels
Need A Different Region or Segment?
Customize Now

Market Definition

  • Milk and White Chocolate - Milk chocolates is a solid chocolate made with milk (in the form of either milk powder, liquid milk, or condensed milk) and cocoa solids. White chocolate is made from cocoa butter and milk and contains no cocoa solids whatsoever. The scope includes regular chocolates, low-sugar, and sugar-free variants
  • Toffees & Nougats - Toffees include hard, chewy, and small or one-bite candies marketed with labels as toffee or toffee-like confectionery. Nougat is a chewy confection with almond, sugar, and egg white as a basic ingredient; and it originated in Europe and Middle East countries.
  • Cereals Bars - A snack composed of breakfast cereal that has been compressed into a bar shape and is held together with a form of edible adhesive. The scope includes snack bars made with cereals such as rice, oats, corn, etc. mixed with a binding syrup. These also include products labeled as cereal bars, cereal treat bars, or grain bars.
  • Chewing Gum - This is a preparation for chewing, usually made of flavored and sweetened chicle or such substitutes as polyvinyl acetate. The types of chewing gums included in the scope are sugar-chewing gums and sugar-free chewing gums
Keyword Definition
Dark Chocolate Dark chocolate is a form of chocolate containing cocoa solids and cocoa butter without the milk.
White Chocolate White chocolate is the type of chocolate containing the highest percentage of milk solids, typically around or over 30 percent.
Milk Chocolate Milk chocolate is made from dark chocolate that has a low cocoa solid content and higher sugar content, plus a milk product.
Hard Candy A candy made of sugar and corn syrup boiled without crystallizing.
Toffees A hard, chewy, often brown sweet that is made from sugar boiled with butter.
Nougats A chewy or brittle candy containing almonds or other nuts and sometimes fruit.
Cereal bar A cereal bar is a bar-shaped food product, made by pressing cereals and usually dried fruit or berries, which are in most cases held together by glucose syrup.
Protein bar Protein bars are nutrition bars that contain a high proportion of protein to carbohydrates/fats.
Fruit & Nut bar These are often based on dates with other dried fruit and nut additions and, in some cases, flavorings.
NCA The National Confectioners Association is an American trade organization that promotes chocolate, candy, gum and mints, and the companies that make these treats.
CGMP Current good manufacturing practices are those conforming to the guidelines recommended by relevant agencies.
Unstandardized foods Unstandardized foods are those that do not have a standard of identity or that deviate from a prescribed standard in any manner.
GI The glycemic index (GI) is a way of ranking carbohydrate-containing foods based on how slowly or quickly they are digested and increase blood glucose levels over a period of time
Skimmed milk powder Skimmed milk powder is obtained by removing water from pasteurized skim milk by spray-drying.
Flavanols Flavanols are a group of compounds found in cocoa, tea, apples, and many other plant-based foods and beverages.
WPC Whey protein concentrate- the substance obtained by the removal of sufficient nonprotein constituents from pasteurized whey so that the finished dry product contains greater than 25% protein.
LDL Low density Lipoprotein- the bad cholesterol
HDL High density Lipoprotein- the good cholesterol
BHT butylated Hydroxytoluene is a lab-made chemical that is added to foods as a preservative.
Carrageenan Carrageenan is an additive used to thicken, emulsify, and preserve foods and drinks.
Free form Not containing certain ingredients, such as gluten, dairy, or sugar.
Cocoa butter It is a fatty substance obtained from cocoa beans, used in the manufacture of confectionery.
Pastellies A type of of Brazilian candy made from sugar, eggs, and milk.
Draggees Small, round candies that are coated with a hard sugar shell
CHOPRABISCO Royal Belgian Association of the chocolate, pralines, biscuit, and confectionery industry- A trade association that represents the Belgian chocolate industry.
European Directive 2000/13 A European Union directive that regulates the labeling of food products
Kakao-Verordnung The German chocolate ordinance, a set of regulations that define what can be labeled as "chocolate" in Germany.
FASFC Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain
Pectin A natural substance that is derived from fruits and vegetables. It is used in confectionery to create a gel-like texture.
Invert sugars A type of sugar that is made up of glucose and fructose.
Emulsifier A substance that helps to mix to liquids that does not mix together.
Anthocyanins A type of flavonoid that is responsible for the red, purple, and blue colors of confectionery.
Functional Foods Foods that have been modified to provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
Kosher certificate This certification verifies that the ingredients, production process including all machinery, and/or food-service process complies with the standards of Jewish dietary law
Chicory root extract A natural extract from the chicory root that is a good source of fiber, calcium, phosphorous, and folate
RDD Recommended daily dose
Gummies A chewy gelatin-based candy that is often flavored with fruit.
Nutraceuticals Food or dietary supplements that are claimed to have health benefits.
Energy bars Snack bars that are high in carbohydrates and calories are designed to provide energy on the go.
BFSO Belgian Food Safety Organization for the food chain.
Need More Details on Market Definition?
Ask a Question

Research Methodology

Mordor Intelligence follows a four-step methodology in all our reports.

  • Step-1: Identify Key Variables: In order to build a robust forecasting methodology, the variables and factors identified in Step 1 are tested against available historical market numbers. Through an iterative process, the variables required for market forecast are set, and the model is built on the basis of these variables.​
  • Step-2: Build a Market Model: Market-size estimations for the forecast years are in nominal terms. Inflation is not a part of the pricing, and the average selling price (ASP) is kept constant throughout the forecast period for each country.​
  • Step-3: Validate and Finalize: In this important step, all market numbers, variables, and analyst calls are validated through an extensive network of primary research experts from the market studied. The respondents are selected across levels and functions to generate a holistic picture of the market studied.​
  • Step-4: Research Outputs: Syndicated Reports, Custom Consulting Assignments, Databases & Subscription Platforms
research-methodology
Image © Mordor Intelligence. Reuse requires attribution under CC BY 4.0.
Get More Details On Research Methodology
Download PDF