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Market Overview

The GCC Basmati Rice market was valued at USD 1.62 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 1.76 Billion by 2033. The market is expected to grow at a steady pace with a CAGR of 1.0% over the forecast period of 2025-2033. Basmati rice, known for its long grain aromatic qualities and rich nutrient profile, is a staple in Middle Eastern cuisine. The market growth is supported by increasing demand due to limited local production and import reliance, especially from India and Pakistan. 

How AI is Reshaping the Future of GCC Basmati Rice Market

• AI-based supply chain optimization is enhancing procurement strategies, reducing costs, and improving delivery times in GCC basmati rice distribution.

• Machine learning algorithms support quality control by monitoring grain size and quality parameters, ensuring premium product standards are maintained.

• Predictive analytics are being utilized by importers and retailers to match inventory levels accurately with consumer demand, reducing waste and stock-outs.

• AI-powered consumer insights tools analyze buying patterns among the high-density Asian expatriate population, assisting in targeted marketing campaigns.

• Government initiatives are leveraging AI for agricultural trade forecasting, optimizing basmati rice imports amid climatic challenges in the GCC.

• Companies are adopting AI for product concept testing and brand perception surveys, improving new product launches and customer loyalty in the rice market.

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Market Growth Factors

The GCC basmati rice market growth is primarily driven by the insufficient rice production within the GCC region due to unsuitable climatic conditions, necessitating increased imports. This supply-demand gap, combined with a rising consumer preference for premium quality rice, especially basmati, significantly fuels market expansion. The import surge from traditional basmati rice exporters like India and Pakistan underscores the heavy reliance on foreign supply chains to meet the regional demand.

Basmati rice is a dietary staple in GCC nations, culturally embedded alongside wheat. The notable increase in Asian expatriate populations, who traditionally consume basmati rice, continuously propels demand. Governments in the GCC are also fostering import investments by encouraging foreign trade partnerships, which enhance market accessibility and stimulate overall market activity.

There is an observable trend toward health-conscious consumption patterns, partly due to lifestyle diseases linked with sedentary habits. This has led to growing consumption of brown basmati rice, known for its low-fat content and high nutritional value, including fiber, minerals, and vitamins. Such health trends contribute to product diversification and increased market volume.

Market Segmentation

Breakup by Type of Rice:

• Parboiled 

• Raw

Breakup by Pack Size:

• Retail Packaging

• Institutional Packaging

Breakup by Country of Origin:

• India

• Pakistan

• Others

Breakup by Country:

• Saudi Arabia

• UAE

• Kuwait

• Oman

• Qatar

• Bahrain

Recent Development & News

• March 2025: GCC governments introduced collaborative import facilitation initiatives promoting streamlined customs and trade procedures for basmati rice, resulting in a measurable increase in import volumes and market availability.

• July 2025: Leading rice importers expanded their distribution networks and launched targeted consumer campaigns emphasizing the nutritional benefits of brown basmati rice, capturing a growing segment of health-conscious customers.

• October 2025: Market research reported an upsurge in basmati rice retail sales across Saudi Arabia, driven by rising demand for traditional dishes like Kabsa and reinforced supply chain efficiencies.

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