Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market Trends & Forecast 2024-2034
Market Overview
The Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market is poised for significant growth, with its valuation expected to rise from USD 990 million in 2024 to USD 1,544 million by 2034, reflecting an impressive CAGR of 10.3% during the forecast period. The increasing consumption of tahini as a key ingredient in traditional and modern cuisines, coupled with the booming packaged food industry, is driving this growth trajectory.
| Market Attribute | 2024 Value | 2034 Projected Value | CAGR (2024–2034) |
| Market Size (USD) | 990 Million | 1,544 Million | 10.3% |
Key Market Trends in Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
1. Surging Demand for Packaged Food Products
The growing preference for convenience foods has led to a significant rise in the consumption of packaged tahini-based products like hummus, dips, and spreads. Countries like UAE and Saudi Arabia are at the forefront of this trend, creating lucrative opportunities for tahini manufacturers.
2. Increasing Demand for Plant-Based Diets
With 16% of the Middle East population adopting vegetarian lifestyles and 6% embracing vegan diets, demand for seed-based products like tahini has skyrocketed. Health-conscious consumers prefer tahini for its high protein, fiber, and micronutrient content.
3. Culinary Versatility and Growing Use in Foodservice
Tahini is not only essential in making hummus, baba ghanoush, and falafel but is also being used as an ingredient in bakery products, desserts, sauces, and spreads. The ongoing development of foodservice channels, including new restaurants and luxury hotels in the region, further contributes to the demand.
4. Rise of Artisanal Tahini Products
A surge in demand for homemade-style tahini has prompted local producers to introduce artisan products with superior taste and authenticity. Brands like Halwani Bros. Co. and El Rashidi El Mizan have gained a loyal following for their premium, all-natural tahini offerings.
Segment Analysis in Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
1. By Product Type
| Product Type | Market Share (2034) | CAGR (2024–2034) |
| Pastes & Spreads | 34.4% | 10.1% |
| Halva & Other Sweets | 28.6% | 9.8% |
| Sauces & Dips | 24.1% | 10.0% |
Pastes & Spreads hold the largest share, driven by increased demand for spreads and sandwich fillers in both home and commercial kitchens. Meanwhile, halva—a sweet, tahini-based confection—remains a favorite dessert across the Middle East and Mediterranean, contributing to steady growth in the sweets segment.
2. By Region
| Region | Market Share (2034) | CAGR (2024–2034) |
| Middle East (Excl. GCC) | 38.2% | 9.9% |
| GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) | 30.6% | 10.7% |
| Mediterranean Europe | 24.2% | 10.3% |
| North Africa | 7.0% | 8.5% |
The GCC region is leading the charge, with increased investments in the foodservice and hospitality sector, spurring demand for tahini in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. Countries like UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar are expected to drive substantial market demand.
Regional Insights for Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
1. GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council)
- Market Value (2034): USD 472.6 Million
- The UAE and Saudi Arabia dominate the market, with a growing packaged food industry propelling the demand for tahini-based dips, spreads, and pastes.
- The hospitality boom and the influx of international travelers are also supporting the rising use of tahini in modern cuisines served at luxury hotels and restaurants.
2. Mediterranean Europe
- Market Value (2034): USD 373.6 Million
- The rise of Mediterranean cuisine in global markets, especially in the United Kingdom, Spain, and Italy, is increasing the demand for tahini as a core ingredient in hummus, dips, and health foods.
Challenges and Restraints for Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
- High Fat Content: Concerns about fat content may deter health-conscious consumers.
- Price Volatility of Sesame Seeds: Fluctuations in raw material prices impact production costs, affecting tahini pricing.
- Competition from Low-Cost Substitutes: Other low-cost alternatives like sunflower seed butter and almond butter are competing with tahini.
Competitive Landscape
Key Market Players in Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
- El Rashidi El Mizan (Egypt)
- Al-Wadi Al-Akhdar S.A.L (Lebanon)
- Halwani Bros. Co. (Saudi Arabia)
- Haitoglou Bros S.A. (Greece)
- Prince Tahina Ltd. (Israel)
These companies are investing in product innovation, natural ingredient offerings, and packaging design to increase brand visibility and secure a competitive edge.
Industry Developments in Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
- July 2023: A new restaurant named “Tahini” opened in Dubai, UAE, highlighting authentic Lebanese cuisine and using tahini as a key ingredient.
- 2024: Halwani Bros. Co. announces expansion into the export market, leveraging sesame seeds sourced from Ethiopia.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Middle East & Mediterranean Tahini Market
1. What is the projected market size for tahini in 2034?
The market is forecast to reach USD 1,544 million by 2034, up from USD 990 million in 2024.
2. Which region holds the largest market share?
The Middle East (Excl. GCC) holds 38.2% of the market share, while the GCC accounts for 30.6% of the market.
3. What are the major growth drivers?
The primary growth drivers include the rise of plant-based diets, the hospitality boom in the Middle East, and the growth of the packaged food sector.
4. What is the CAGR for the forecast period (2024–2034)?
The Middle East and Mediterranean tahini market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 10.3% during this period.
5. Who are the leading players in the tahini market?
Major players include El Rashidi El Mizan, Halwani Bros. Co., Al-Wadi Al-Akhdar S.A.L, Haitoglou Bros S.A., and Prince Tahina Ltd.
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