Plant-Based Foods Grow In Popularity In The Middle East

In the bustling souks of Cairo and the sleek restaurants of Dubai, a culinary revolution is quietly unfolding. Plant-based foods—once seen as a niche preference—are becoming a staple in one of the world’s most meat-loving regions. Rooted in a blend of health consciousness, environmental awareness, and a reinterpretation of cultural traditions, this movement is reshaping the Middle East’s relationship with food.

Related: Al Islami Foods Enters Vegan Market With New Plant-Based Burger

From Tradition to Transformation

The Middle East has always been home to plant-centric dishes. Think hummus, tabbouleh, and baba ghanoush—meals celebrated for their vibrant flavors and reliance on fresh, wholesome ingredients. Now, these age-old staples are being reimagined in ways that cater to modern sensibilities. Falafel burgers, jackfruit kebabs, and dairy-free labneh are finding their way onto menus, seamlessly blending tradition with innovation.

“People are often surprised at how naturally our cuisine adapts to plant-based cooking,” says Ahmed Salah, a chef in Abu Dhabi whose vegan-friendly menu has drawn widespread acclaim. “The spices and techniques we’ve used for centuries lend themselves perfectly to these new interpretations.”

This transformation isn’t just happening in trendy eateries. Homes across the region are experimenting with meat-free days, integrating lentils, grains, and vegetables into family meals in creative ways.

A Growing Appetite for Change

Globally, the plant-based food market is booming, valued at $44.2 billion in 2021 and expected to exceed $95 billion by 2029. The Middle East is no exception. A 2023 YouGov survey found that 34% of consumers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia are consciously incorporating more plant-based meals into their diets. While health benefits are a driving force, the movement is also gaining traction due to environmental concerns.

Take the story of Nour Hameed, a 29-year-old from Riyadh who once considered herself a staunch meat lover. “I started cutting back on meat after learning about the environmental impact of livestock farming,” she says. “Now, I feel healthier, and it’s satisfying to know I’m making choices that align with my values.”

The Sustainability Imperative

The environmental case for plant-based eating is compelling, particularly in a region grappling with water scarcity and rising temperatures. Livestock farming accounts for 14.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). By reducing meat consumption, the Middle East can take significant strides toward sustainability.

Governments are starting to respond. The UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051 emphasizes sustainable food systems, with plant-based alternatives playing a key role. Companies like Beyond Meat and Impossible Foods are also expanding into the region, making these products more accessible to everyday consumers.

Business Booms in Plant-Based Ventures

The rise of plant-based eating has sparked a surge in entrepreneurial activity. Startups like Dubai’s Thryve Foods and Kuwait’s Evolvin’ Women are introducing innovative plant-based products tailored to regional tastes. Even established companies are diversifying; Almarai, the Middle East’s largest dairy producer, now offers plant-based options.

“Plant-based foods are not a passing trend; they’re the future,” says Sarah Malik, the founder of a plant-based bakery in Beirut. “Consumers are demanding healthier, ethical choices, and businesses are stepping up.”

Cultural and Religious Resonance

For many in the Middle East, the shift toward plant-based eating resonates deeply with Islamic principles of moderation, stewardship, and avoiding waste. The Prophet Muhammad emphasized sustainable living, a message that aligns with the ethos of plant-based diets.

This cultural harmony is making the movement more accessible and even aspirational. Ramadan iftars, traditionally laden with meat dishes, are increasingly featuring plant-based options. Families are exploring vegan-friendly versions of classic recipes, blending heritage with modern values.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

Despite its momentum, the plant-based movement faces hurdles. Deeply ingrained cultural ties to meat, misconceptions about protein intake, and higher costs for some alternatives remain challenges. However, education and innovation are breaking down these barriers.

Social media influencers and chefs are playing a pivotal role, sharing easy-to-follow recipes for vegan-friendly dishes like maqluba and lentil soups. Younger generations, in particular, are embracing these changes, driving demand and sparking dialogue around food choices.

A Plant-Based Future for the Middle East

The Middle East’s embrace of plant-based eating is more than a trend—it’s a profound shift that reflects evolving values. With a foundation rooted in tradition and a growing awareness of health and environmental issues, the region is poised to become a leader in this global movement.

As Nour Hameed puts it, “Plant-based eating isn’t just about what’s on your plate—it’s about the kind of world you want to help create.”

From the streets of Amman to the high-end kitchens of Doha, the Middle East is proving that plant-based eating isn’t just compatible with its culinary heritage—it’s enhancing it. In this transformation, the region is crafting a narrative that honors its traditions while embracing a more sustainable and inclusive future. One dish at a time.