PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1842194
PUBLISHER: Grand View Research | PRODUCT CODE: 1842194
The Middle East paper packaging market size was estimated at USD 16.70 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 25.90 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2033. The market is driven by the region's growing demand for sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging, fueled by government-led bans and regulations on single-use plastics.
In addition, rapid expansion in the food & beverage and e-commerce sectors is boosting the adoption of paper-based packaging solutions. The rapid growth of the food and beverage sector, supported by rising urbanization, tourism, and increasing demand for convenience foods. Countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia are seeing a surge in quick-service restaurants (QSRs), cafes, and food delivery services, which has created strong demand for paper-based packaging such as cartons, paper cups, and takeaway containers. For instance, Dubai's thriving hospitality and foodservice industry, which caters to both residents and tourists, relies heavily on sustainable and lightweight packaging. In addition, with governments pushing for alternatives to single-use plastics, paper packaging has become the preferred solution for food delivery and retail applications.
Sustainability push and regulatory initiatives across the region are also positively influencing market growth. Middle Eastern countries are increasingly adopting bans or restrictions on plastic bags and packaging to address environmental concerns. For example, Saudi Arabia implemented SASO (Saudi Standards, Metrology, and Quality Organization) regulations limiting the use of conventional plastics, while the UAE announced bans on single-use plastic bags in Abu Dhabi (2022) and Dubai (2024). These measures are encouraging businesses to shift to recyclable and biodegradable options like paper and paperboard packaging. The emphasis on meeting global sustainability standards, especially in export-driven industries such as food and beverages, further amplifies the adoption of paper packaging.
The rise of e-commerce and retail modernization is also driving the paper packaging market in the Middle East. With platforms such as Noon, Amazon.ae, and local online retailers experiencing significant growth, demand for corrugated boxes, paper bags, and protective paper-based packaging has accelerated. Saudi Arabia and the UAE, as e-commerce hubs, are investing in supply chain and logistics infrastructure, which in turn boosts the consumption of corrugated packaging. Moreover, consumer preference is shifting toward eco-friendly and aesthetically appealing packaging, pushing retailers and FMCG brands to invest in innovative paper-based solutions. This blend of regulatory support, sustainability trends, and market demand makes paper packaging one of the fastest-growing packaging formats in the Middle East.
Middle East Paper Packaging Market Report Segmentation
This report forecasts revenue growth at a regional level and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends in each of the sub-segments from 2021 to 2033. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the Middle East paper packaging market report based on grade, product, application, and country: