The GCC biodegradable food service disposables market size reached USD 126.8 Million in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach USD 184.8 Million by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 4.06% during 2025-2033.Grab a sample PDF of this report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/gcc-biodegradable-food-service-disposables-market/requestsample
Rising environmental awareness drives demand for biodegradable food service disposables in the GCC, as concerns about plastic pollution prompt consumers and businesses to adopt sustainable alternatives. Government initiatives, such as the UAE’s Circular Economy Policy and Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, promote eco-friendly practices through regulations and incentives. The hospitality sector, including hotels and restaurants, increasingly adopts these disposables to reduce environmental impact, with pulp and paper-based products gaining traction due to their renewable nature and alignment with consumer preferences for sustainability.
The surge in food delivery services and changing consumer lifestyles further fuels market growth. Online food delivery platforms in the GCC, like Talabat, have increased the need for hygienic, disposable packaging, with biodegradable options ensuring safety and sustainability. Innovations, such as Emirates Flight Catering’s vertical farming partnership, support eco-friendly trends. The market is also driven by the lack of recycling facilities for traditional disposables, pushing businesses toward biodegradable alternatives to meet consumer demand for convenience and environmental responsibility.
Key Market Trends & Insights:
Adoption of Advanced Biopolymer Materials
Biopolymers, such as PLA and PHA, are gaining traction in the GCC due to their enhanced durability and compostability. These materials offer a sustainable alternative to traditional plastics, meeting the region's demand for eco-friendly disposables in restaurants and catering services, aligning with sustainability goals.
Expansion of Online B2B Distribution Channels
The B2B segment, particularly online stores, dominates distribution, offering bulk purchasing for businesses like cafes. The convenience of doorstep delivery and comprehensive product selection drives adoption, with platforms like Amazon Business facilitating access to biodegradable cups and containers.
Surge in Demand for Biodegradable Cups
Cups hold the largest market share due to their versatility for hot and cold beverages. GCC’s hospitality sector, including UAE’s hotels, increasingly uses sugarcane-based cups to reduce plastic waste, reflecting consumer preference for sustainable, functional disposables.
Government-Led Plastic Ban Initiatives
GCC countries, especially Saudi Arabia, implement stringent plastic bans, boosting biodegradable disposables. Regulatory frameworks promote pulp and paper products, with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 encouraging businesses to adopt eco-friendly plates and cutlery to minimize environmental impact.
Innovation in Pulp and Paper Products
Pulp and paper dominate as raw materials, valued for renewability. Manufacturers in Qatar and Oman produce high-quality, biodegradable plates from sugarcane bagasse, meeting hygiene standards and consumer demand for sustainable options in food service settings.
Ask analyst of customized report: https://www.imarcgroup.com/request?type=report&id=3444&flag=E