The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Research Report: Growth Drivers & Forecast (2026-2032)

The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Report Key Takeaways:

• Market size was valued at around USD3.24 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD5.1 million by 2032. The estimated CAGR from 2026 to 2032 is around 6.7%, indicating strong growth.
• The UAE holds the largest market share of about 42% in the Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market in 2025.
• By Form, the Roasted segment represented a significant share of about 36% in the Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market in 2025.
• By Distribution Channel, the Supermarkets and Hypermarkets segment presented a significant share of about 58% in the Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market in 2025.
• Leading Fox Nuts (Makhana) Companies in the Middle East Market are The Manju Makhana, Phool Makhana, Sattviko, Mr. Makhana, Shakti Makhana, Farmley, Nature’s Treat, Makhana King, Divine Makhana, Urban Platter, Nuttery, and Others.

Market Insights & Analysis: The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market (2026-32):

The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market size is valued at around USD3.24 million in 2025 and is projected to reach USD5.1 million by 2032. Along with this, the market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of around 6.7% during the forecast period, i.e., 2026-32.

The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market is witnessing steady revenue growth, driven by the region’s growing preference for healthy and functional snacking alternatives. Consumers in Gulf countries, particularly the UAE and Saudi Arabia, are increasingly replacing traditional fried snacks with nutrient-rich options like makhana, appreciated for being high in protein, low in fat, and gluten-free. This shift stems from heightened health consciousness, rising disposable incomes, and a strong South Asian expatriate influence that has introduced makhana into mainstream consumption.

Moreover, premium and halal-certified imports from India are gaining popularity due to their alignment with regional dietary standards. For instance, in FY 2024–25, Indian exports of makhana rose by 27% year-on-year to reach approximately USD30.5 million, with the United Arab Emirates accounting for nearly 17% of total export value, underscoring its growing prominence as a key importer in the Middle East.

Simultaneously, the expansion of modern retail formats and e-commerce platforms across Gulf cities is amplifying market accessibility. The increasing availability of flavored and ready-to-eat makhana variants is attracting younger consumers seeking convenient yet nutritious snacks. This trend is opening opportunities for regional distributors and private-label brands to innovate with localized flavors, sustainable packaging, and premium positioning. However, sustaining long-term growth will require alignment with regional food regulations, competitive pricing strategies, and consumer-driven product differentiation to strengthen market penetration across both premium and mass segments.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Recent Developments:

• March 2025: The United Arab Emirates introduced new 2025 food-safety regulations through the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the National Food Safety Committee, which unify standards across emirates, impose stricter controls on imported food and e-commerce, and mandate the upcoming “Nutri-Mark” nutrition-labeling scheme from June 2025.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Scope:

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Driver:

Increasing Focus on Health & Wellness Driving Market Demand

The increasing focus on health and wellness among Middle Eastern consumers is emerging as a primary driver for the growth & expansion of the fox nuts (makhana) industry. With growing awareness about balanced nutrition, consumers are actively replacing fried or processed snacks with nutrient-dense options. Makhana’s natural composition, rich in protein, low in fat, and gluten-free, aligns well with these evolving preferences. For instance, in 2025, a report by Tech4Serve highlighted that makhana products are witnessing a surge in retail listings across major UAE supermarkets, promoted as part of a regional “superfood revolution.” Additionally, this shift is encouraging producers and distributors to introduce innovative flavors, clean-label packaging, and certified organic variants to meet the growing health-conscious demand.

Expanding Retail & E-commerce Infrastructure

The rapid expansion of organized retail networks and e-commerce platforms across the Middle East is playing a crucial role in driving the revenue growth of the fox nuts (makhana) industry. Consumers are increasingly purchasing healthy snacks through hypermarkets, specialty organic stores, and digital marketplaces, reflecting a growing preference for convenience and accessibility. The rise of online grocery platforms and delivery apps has enabled regional and international snack brands to reach a wider, health-conscious audience. For instance, in April 2024, Agthia Group PJSC announced the successful integration of BMB Group, a UAE-based healthy snacks producer, into its snacking division to strengthen digital and retail distribution across the GCC region.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Trend:

Rising Adoption of Plant-Based & Sustainable Snack Alternatives

The Middle East is increasingly adopting plant-based and sustainable snack options, creating strong demand for the fox nuts (makhana) industry. Consumers prefer clean-label, low-calorie snacks and are shifting from fried products to nutrient-dense alternatives, driving retailers to stock makhana in healthier assortments. This trend is reinforced by measurable sales growth in plant-based snack categories and rising supermarket listings. For instance, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada reported that UAE plant-based protein snack sales are growing, reflecting the rapid adoption of better-for-you snacks. Market players must prioritize sustainable sourcing, transparent labelling, and eco-friendly packaging to capture premium and mainstream segments effectively.

Product Innovation & Premiumization Gaining Momentum

Manufacturers across the Middle East are increasingly emphasizing product innovation and premiumization to attract health-conscious and urban consumers. The focus is shifting toward developing unique flavor profiles, cleaner ingredient lists, and sustainable packaging to enhance brand differentiation. Companies are launching new variants such as peri-peri, cheese, and Mediterranean-inspired flavors to meet the needs of consumers. Premiumization is further reinforced through the use of organic ingredients, air-popping techniques, and eco-friendly, resealable packaging designed to appeal to affluent consumers seeking healthy indulgence. For instance, in 2025, Nutriverse introduced its first makhana-based snack range featuring bold flavors and modern packaging aimed at promoting balanced, nutritious snacking.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Challenge:

Import Dependency & Supply Chain Disruptions

A critical challenge for the Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market is its heavy dependence on imports due to minimal regional cultivation and processing capabilities. Additionally, the absence of a strong domestic supply chain creates exposure to international trade fluctuations, freight cost volatility, and longer lead times. Import dependency also restricts price competitiveness and product freshness, especially for health-conscious consumers seeking premium snack quality. Furthermore, limited local R&D and agricultural expertise hinder efforts to adapt makhana farming to Middle Eastern climatic conditions. Without investment in local processing units and sustainable sourcing networks, long-term market scalability remains constrained.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market (2026-32) Segmentation Analysis:

The Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market study of MarkNtel Advisors evaluates & highlights the major trends and influencing factors in each segment. It includes predictions for the period 2026–32 at the Middle East level. Based on the analysis, the market has been further classified as;

Based on Form

• Raw
• Roasted
• Flavored

The roasted segment holds the largest share in the Middle East fox nuts (makhana) industry, with a market share of about 36%, driven by rising health awareness and preference for clean-label, low-fat snacks. Consumers across the UAE and Saudi Arabia increasingly favor roasted makhana as a guilt-free, protein-rich alternative to fried snacks. The convenience of ready-to-eat roasted fox nuts aligns with the region’s growing demand for nutritious, on-the-go products. Supporting this trend, in 2025, MeraKisan announced the supply of GI-certified, halal, roasted makhana to UAE distributors, highlighting the growing regional appetite for premium, sustainably sourced roasted products.

Based on the Distribution Channel

• Supermarkets/Hypermarkets
• Convenience Stores
• Online Retail

The supermarkets and hypermarkets segment dominates the Middle East fox nuts (makhana) industry, with a market share of about 58%, driven by the rising retail availability of healthy and premium snack options. Large retail chains such as Carrefour, Lulu Hypermarket, and Spinneys are expanding their shelf space for plant-based, protein-rich snacks to meet evolving consumer preferences. Urban shoppers across the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar increasingly rely on these outlets for trusted, health-oriented products. For instance, in 2024, Carrefour UAE launched its “Choose Better” Programme, introducing a curated range of healthier snacks and plant-based products under the UAE’s National Nutrition Strategy.

Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market (2026-32): Regional Projection

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) dominates the Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market, with a market share of about 42% driven by its advanced retail ecosystem, growing expatriate population, and increasing consumer inclination toward plant-based, healthy snacks. The country’s robust import infrastructure and retail giants like Carrefour, Spinneys, and Lulu Hypermarket have enhanced product visibility and accessibility across major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Moreover, in 2025, LuLu Group International announced the launch of a new range of UAE-manufactured food products at Global Food Week 2025, reinforcing the UAE’s position as a regional hub for healthy and sustainable snack innovations .

Gain a Competitive Edge with Our Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Report

• Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Report by MarkNtel Advisors provides a detailed & thorough analysis of market size & share, growth rate, competitive landscape, and key players. This comprehensive analysis helps businesses gain a holistic understanding of the market dynamics & make informed decisions.
• This report also highlights current market trends & future projections, allowing businesses to identify emerging opportunities & potential challenges. By understanding market forecasts, companies can align their strategies & stay ahead of the competition.
• Middle East Fox Nuts (Makhana) Market Report aids in assessing & mitigating risks associated with entering or operating in the market. By understanding market dynamics, regulatory frameworks, and potential challenges, businesses can develop strategies to minimize risks & optimize their operations.

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