Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market By Operation Type (Food Aggregators, Restaurant-Based), By Source (Mobile App, Website), By Payment (Cash on Delivery, Card Payment, Others), By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery market was valued at USD 2.98 Billion in 2024 and is expected to grow to USD 8.22 Billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 18.42%. The Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery market is experiencing steady growth, driven by is experiencing robust growth, driven by multiple factors. The increasing penetration of smartphones and the availability of high-speed internet have made food delivery services more accessible to a broader population. Mobile applications have transformed consumer behavior, offering unparalleled convenience for ordering food from a wide range of restaurants. Also, the diverse culinary preferences of Saudi consumers have led to a broadening of food delivery options, catering to various tastes and dietary needs. Strategic partnerships between local and international food delivery platforms have further enhanced service offerings and expanded market reach, enabling faster delivery times and improved customer experience. These factors, along with a fast-paced urban lifestyle, are contributing to the dynamic growth of the online food delivery market in Saudi Arabia, positioning it as a key player in the region.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Internet Penetration Across the Region

Rising internet penetration across Saudi Arabia is a key driver of the online food ordering and delivery market. As a part of this, according to a recent study, at the beginning of 2024, when internet penetration was 99.0%, there were 36.84 million internet users in Saudi Arabia.With widespread access to the internet, an increasing number of consumers are turning to digital platforms for convenience and efficiency in ordering food. As internet penetration continues to grow, a larger segment of the population is gaining access to food delivery apps, making the process of browsing menus, placing orders, and tracking deliveries easier than ever. The surge in smartphone usage, coupled with reliable internet services, has accelerated the adoption of mobile applications, reshaping consumer behavior. This growing connectivity has led to an increased demand for quick, on-demand services, with food delivery becoming a preferred choice for many. As the digital landscape continues to expand, the online food delivery market in Saudi Arabia is poised for significant growth, driven by enhanced accessibility and consumer convenience.

Increased Smartphone Penetration

Increased smartphone penetration in Saudi Arabia has played a crucial role in the growth of the online food ordering and delivery market. As a part of this, according to a recent study, as of 2025, there were 48.1 million active cellular mobile connections in Saudi Arabia, which is equal to 140 percent of the country's total population. With a significant portion of the population owning smartphones, consumers now have direct access to a variety of food delivery platforms at their fingertips. The ease and convenience of browsing through menus, placing orders, and tracking deliveries on mobile apps have reshaped consumer behavior, encouraging more people to opt for food delivery services. This accessibility has expanded the market, allowing food delivery apps to reach a larger audience, including younger, tech-savvy consumers. Also, as smartphones become more affordable and prevalent across different demographics, the potential for growth in the online food delivery market continues to rise. The integration of mobile payment options has also simplified transactions, further driving the adoption of online food ordering. Overall, increased smartphone usage continues to be a key driver of the market’s expansion in Saudi Arabia.

Growing Middle-Class Population

The growing middle-class population in Saudi Arabia is a significant driver of the online food ordering and delivery market. As a part of this, according to a recent study, as of 2024, the Middle East's largest proportion of middle-class and upper-class consumers was found in Saudi Arabia. The proportion of middle-class and upper-class consumers in Saudi Arabia was 100%. As the economy continues to develop, a larger segment of the population is entering the middle class, which increases disposable income and spending power. This demographic shift leads to higher demand for convenience-based services like online food delivery. The middle class, especially in urban areas, tends to have busier lifestyles and is more inclined to use technology for everyday tasks, including ordering food. With more individuals and families able to afford online delivery services, food aggregators and restaurants are capitalizing on this demand by offering a wider variety of options to cater to diverse tastes and preferences. As this middle-income group continues to grow, it will further fuel the expansion of the online food ordering and delivery market, making it an essential part of daily life for an increasing number of Saudis.

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Key Market Challenges

Strict Government Norms

Strict government norms pose a significant challenge to the growth of the online food ordering and delivery market in Saudi Arabia. Regulatory requirements related to food safety, hygiene standards, and operational licenses can complicate the processes for both food delivery platforms and restaurants. Businesses must comply with numerous regulations to ensure they meet health standards, which can result in higher operational costs and delays in service. Also, the Saudi government has set specific guidelines for delivery personnel, including restrictions on working hours and the type of delivery vehicles used. These regulations, while aimed at ensuring safety and quality, can increase the complexity of managing food delivery operations. Also, any changes in government policies or the introduction of new regulations could disrupt the market, making it more challenging for businesses to adapt quickly. Despite these challenges, businesses in the sector are working to navigate these norms to meet consumer demand while maintaining compliance.

Competition & Market Fragmentation

Competition and market fragmentation represent significant challenges for the Saudi Arabia online food ordering and delivery market. The rapid growth of the sector has led to the emergence of numerous food delivery platforms, both local and international, all vying for consumer attention. This intense competition puts pressure on businesses to differentiate themselves through better pricing, faster delivery times, and superior customer service. At the same time, market fragmentation makes it difficult for any single platform to dominate, as consumers are often spread across multiple apps, each offering unique features and restaurant partnerships. For new entrants, the challenge is not only to build a strong customer base but also to maintain profitability in an environment where customer loyalty is hard to secure. Also, the sheer number of platforms and restaurant options can create confusion among consumers, hindering brand recognition and making it harder for businesses to carve out a clear market position.

Key Market Trends

Shift Towards Digital Platform & Convenience

The shift towards digital platforms and the growing demand for convenience is a prominent trend in the Saudi Arabia online food ordering and delivery market. Consumers are increasingly turning to mobile apps and websites to order food, seeking the convenience of browsing menus, making secure payments, and receiving deliveries at their doorstep with just a few taps. This shift is being driven by the busy, fast-paced lifestyles of urban residents, who prefer the efficiency and ease of digital platforms over traditional dining options. Food delivery platforms are increasingly integrating features like real-time tracking, personalized recommendations, and diverse payment options, making the experience even more seamless. Also, consumers are looking for greater flexibility in terms of delivery times and the ability to access a variety of cuisines from different restaurants. As a result, food delivery services are continuously innovating to meet these demands, ensuring that convenience and digital accessibility remain at the forefront of the market.

Increased Government Support for Digitalization

The Saudi Arabian online food ordering and delivery market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increased government support for digitalization. The government's Vision 2030 initiative aims to accelerate digital transformation and reduce cash dependency, enhancing the adoption of online services. As smartphone penetration rises and internet access expands, consumers are increasingly seeking convenience through digital food delivery platforms. This trend is further amplified by the rise of cloud kitchens and dark stores, which streamline operations and improve delivery efficiency. Strategic investments and partnerships between local and international players are further bolstering service offerings, catering to a more tech-savvy consumer base. The Saudi government’s push for non-cash transactions is supporting the shift to digital platforms, making online food ordering a key component of the country’s evolving digital economy. The market is poised to continue growing, offering new opportunities for innovation and expansion.

Emphasis on Health-Conscious Choices & Dietary Preference

The Saudi Arabian online food ordering and delivery market is witnessing a significant shift towards health-conscious choices and diverse dietary preferences. Consumers are increasingly seeking options that align with their wellness goals, leading to a surge in demand for meals that are vegan, gluten-free, low-calorie, and made with organic or locally sourced ingredients. This trend is prompting restaurants and delivery platforms to expand their menus, offering customizable meals and transparent nutritional information to cater to individual dietary needs. The rise of flexitarianism and plant-based eating habits is also influencing menu offerings, with more establishments incorporating sustainable and health-focused dishes. Also, the integration of technology, such as AI-driven recommendations and user-friendly apps, is enhancing the customer experience, making it easier for consumers to find and order meals that suit their health preferences. This evolving landscape reflects a broader commitment to wellness and personalization in Saudi Arabia's digital food service sector.

Segmental Insights

Operation Type Insights

Food Aggregators dominated the Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery market, driven by their ability to offer a wide variety of cuisines through a single, user-friendly platform. These platforms consolidate menus from numerous restaurants, allowing consumers to browse, compare, and order meals with ease. The convenience of features such as real-time tracking, personalized recommendations, and multiple payment options has resonated with the country's tech-savvy population. Also, strategic partnerships with local eateries and investments in logistics have enhanced delivery efficiency and service quality. The rise of cloud kitchens and dark stores has further optimized operations, enabling faster and more reliable deliveries. As urbanization continues and digital adoption increases, food aggregators are well-positioned to maintain their market leadership by continually adapting to evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.

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Regional Insights

Northern & Central region dominated the Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery market, driven by several key factors. These regions encompass major urban centers such as Riyadh, which is the capital and largest city, and Buraydah, the capital of Al-Qassim Province. Riyadh's cosmopolitan population and fast-paced lifestyle have fueled demand for convenient dining options accessible through mobile apps and websites. Also, the Western region's is driven by high urbanization, dense populations, and a thriving tourism sector, particularly due to the religious significance of Mecca and Medina, which attract millions of pilgrims each year. The consistent influx of visitors and a culturally diverse population drive demand for varied and accessible food options.

Recent Developments

• In December 2024, Meituan, China’s largest platform for food delivery and quick commerce, marked its entry into the Saudi Arabian market through its international brand, Keeta. This strategic move represents Meituan’s first major expansion into the Middle East, reflecting its ambition to tap into the region’s rapidly growing digital economy and thriving online food delivery sector.
• In May 2023, Careem, the region’s leading multi-service app, has launched Saudi Arabia’s healthiest on-demand food delivery service in Riyadh and Jeddah, making it easier for customers to enjoy tasty yet nutritious meals without the need for a subscription. The updated Careem Food app offers a tailored experience for Saudi users, featuring curated dish selections, nutritional information, educational health content, and monthly wellness challenges.
• In July 2023, Taker has announced the launch of the Dook delivery application, allowing users to order food from their favorite restaurants at the same prices offered in-house, with no extra fees. Dook aims to tackle the issue of inflated prices often seen on delivery platforms by offering its services to restaurant owners at a low commission rate of just 5%.

Key Market Players  

• Hunger Station LLC
• Jahez Group
• Talabat
• Uber Technologies, Inc.
• Mrsool
• The Chefz
• ToYou
• Shgardi
• Swiggy Limited
• Zomato Limited

Report Scope:

In this report, the Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

•   Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market, By Operation Type:

o   Food Aggregators

o   Restaurant-Based

• Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market, By Source:

o   Mobile App

o   Website

• Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market, By Payment:

o   Cash on Delivery

o   Card Payment

o   Others

• Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market, By Region:

o   Eastern

o   Western

o   Northern & Central

o   Southern

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market.

Available Customizations:

Saudi Arabia Online Food Ordering and Delivery Market report with the given market data, TechSci Research offers customizations according to a company's specific needs. The following customization options are available for the report:

Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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