Vegetarianism Grows in Saudi Arabia's Food Scene

Vegetarian and plant-based eating is becoming noticeably more visible and accepted across Saudi Arabia than it was five to ten years ago. While it remains a niche lifestyle rather than a mainstream one, the trend is steadily shaping how many residents and expats in the Kingdom fill their plates.

The clearest shift is toward plant-forward eating rather than a sudden surge in strict vegetarians. More people are cutting back on animal products and adding more plant foods, driven by greater health awareness, growing concern over lifestyle diseases, health initiatives tied to Vision 2030, and easier access to nutrition information.

Local research describes vegetarianism as a growing phenomenon. One Saudi study found 37.5% of respondents reported some form of vegetarianism, including 15.7% semivegetarians, 8.1% pescovegetarians, 64.3% lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and 11.3% vegans within that group. Another study reported prevalence of 7.8% vegetarian and 4.7% vegan, while recent research points to a 13% rise in interest in vegetarian and vegan diets.

Easier Access, Bigger Market

Finding vegetarian and vegan food is far easier today. More restaurants now offer vegetarian or vegan menu options, and grocery stores commonly stock plant-based milks, vegan butter and cheese, meatless burgers and sausages, and other vegan products.

The market is expanding fast. Saudi Arabia's vegan meat sector was valued at USD 163.56 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 568.56 million by 2030. For the community, this means more choice, better availability, and a food landscape that increasingly accommodates those choosing to eat less meat, whether for health, taste, or personal reasons.

---

Stay updated with the latest news, events, sports updates, business insights, real estate and lifestyle stories on Saudi Living — the leading online platform for residents, expats, and visitors in Saudi Arabia.

Follow Saudi Living for daily updates:

• Instagram - @saudiliving
• X - @saudiliving
• Facebook - @saudiliving
• YouTube - @saudiliving