We have extensive expertise in working with clients, retailers, brands across the Middle East and have personal experience of living in the region, thereby understanding first-hand the culture, the beauty industry, retailers and what consumers are looking for.
According to Statista, The UAE personal and beauty care market was valued at US$1,242.00m in 2023, it is anticipated to grow by -1.54% (CAGR 2023-2028), with the largest sector of the market being personal care which accounts for $557.30m in 2023.
The Middle East is experiencing a significant expansion due to the growing purchasing power of local consumers. Powered by digitalisation, the region, especially the Gulf countries, offer plenty of opportunities for growth. Rising disposable incomes and overall rising wealth, particularly amongst the younger urban middle class, also bring prospects for value-added beauty products that emphasize health and well-being.
The Middle East is experiencing a significant expansion due to the growing purchasing power of local consumers. Powered by digitalisation, the region, especially the Gulf countries, offer plenty of opportunities for growth. Rising disposable incomes and overall rising wealth, particularly amongst the younger urban middle class, also bring prospects for value-added beauty products that emphasize health and well-being.
Consumer Preferences:
The Middle East has also witnessed a shift in beauty trends, influenced by a blend of traditional practices and global beauty influences. Consumers in the region are embracing a more modern approach to beauty, incorporating skincare routines, makeup application, and hair care regimes into their daily lives. Millennials are the fast-growing customer demographic for luxury cosmetics, owing to social media (not surprising) and celeb driven beauty trends. These consumers are willing to pay extra for innovative beauty products they have only just heard about.
Halal Beauty:
The word “halal” is an Arabic term that translates to “lawful or permitted.” When the term “halal” is partnered with beauty products, it means they’ve been manufactured in line with Islamic principles. The formulas don’t test on animals or contain ingredients derived from blood, pigs, human body parts, predatory animals, reptiles, insects, or alcohol, but they might include animal products or animal-derived ingredients that have been obtained according to Islamic Shariah law. Many consumers seek halal-certified products as part of their religious beliefs and ethical choices. There is a growing preference for natural and organic beauty products, as consumers prioritise products with minimal chemical ingredients and sustainable practices. Brands like Inglot and Inika are all following this trend.
Social Media
Online platforms have played a significant role in the growth of the beauty and personal care industry in the Middle East. They provide access to a wide range of products, allowing consumers to explore and purchase beauty items with ease. Social media platforms, influencers and beauty bloggers have all been instrumental in shaping consumer preferences and driving product awareness.
The Middle Eastern market is fascinating and continuously evolving. When entering a new market, it is important to understand how to position and price your brand in this marketplace as well as understand cultural nuance, consumer preferences and retailer expectations.
Working with Bespoke Advantage
Bespoke Advantage is a London based international beauty brand consultancy. We are a team of experts, associates and business partners specialising in supporting our clients – award-winning entrepreneurs, well established beauty and wellness businesses, retailers, investors, trade bodies and embassies – in developing and growing their brands across the beauty and wellness marketplace. If you are looking to launch a beauty or wellness brand or you are looking for support in expanding your brand across markets, GET IN TOUCH.
