GCC Diaper Market

Market Overview:

The GCC diaper market size reached 9.8 Million Units in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group expects the market to reach 17.1 Million Units by 2033, exhibiting a growth rate (CAGR) of 6.2% during 2025-2033. Rising concerns and awareness regarding personal hygiene, growing urbanization, increasing expenditure capacities of consumers, expansion of hypermarkets and supermarkets, technological advancements, favorable government regulations, and celebrity endorsements and influencer marketing strategies, are among the key factors driving the market growth.

Diapers are absorbent garments designed primarily for capturing waste excretions from infants and toddlers who are not yet toilet trained. Moreover, they are also used for individuals who suffer from various medical conditions or age-related issues. They are manufactured using various raw materials, such as cellulose, polypropylene, polyethylene, super absorbent polymers, tissue paper, and nonwoven fabrics. Diapers offer improved liquid absorption and containment capabilities compared to their cloth counterparts. They also offer several benefits, such as ease of use, greater freedom of movement for both children and adults, less interrupted sleep for toddlers and infants, and high absorbency.

An increasing population, particularly of infants and toddlers, naturally drives the demand for diapers in the GCC region. In line with this, changing lifestyles and the increasing number of working mothers are driving the demand for diapers as they provide a convenient solution for managing baby care. Additionally, the widespread product adoption owing to the growing awareness about hygiene and sanitation is facilitating the demand for high-quality, hygienic diapers. Besides this, the growing online shopping platforms have made it easier for consumers to explore and purchase a wider variety of diaper products, thereby catalyzing the market growth. Moreover, the introduction of new and improved diaper products with features, such as better absorbency, softness, and skin-friendly materials, is supporting the market growth.

GCC Diaper Market Trends/Drivers:

Increasing Tourism Encourages the Adoption of Diapers

Tourism is a major economic driver in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, particularly in countries like the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the influx of international tourists, including families with infants and toddlers, directly correlates with an increased demand for convenient products like disposable diapers. Visitors often prefer buying locally available diapers to carrying large quantities from home, thereby spurring local sales. In addition to this, the infrastructure supporting tourism, such as hotels and resorts, also keeps a stock of diapers, contributing to bulk purchases. This essentially creates a cycle of demand that complements the general populace's needs.

Heightened Hygiene Awareness

Heightened hygiene awareness is a key driver propelling the diaper industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region. As knowledge about the importance of sanitation and cleanliness becomes more widespread, the demand for hygienic products like diapers sees a corresponding uptick. Moreover, parents are increasingly cognizant of the health risks, such as diaper rash and bacterial infections, that can arise from poor diapering solutions. This consciousness leads them to seek high-quality, absorbent diapers that offer better moisture control and leak protection. Healthcare institutions and public campaigns often promote the use of such products to maintain high standards of cleanliness, further endorsing and boosting market demand. This amplified focus on hygiene significantly contributes to the growing diaper industry in the region.

GCC Diaper Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the GCC diaper market report, along with forecasts at the regional and country levels from 2025-2033. Our report has categorized the market based on baby diaper type, adult diaper type and distribution channel.

Breakup by Product Type (Baby Diaper):

• Disposable Diapers
• Training Diapers
• Cloth Diapers
• Swim Pants
• Biodegradable Diapers
   

Disposable Diapers represents the most widely used product type

The report has provided a detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type (baby diaper). This includes disposable diapers, training diapers, cloth diapers, swim pants, and biodegradable diapers. According to the report, disposable diapers represented the largest segment.

Disposable diapers are dominating the market as they can be easily changed and discarded, saving parents and caregivers valuable time. In line with this, the widespread product adoption among parents due to their convenience and ease of use as they eliminate the need for washing and drying cloth diapers, saving time and effort. Moreover, disposable diapers provide a high level of hygiene as they are designed to quickly absorb and lock away moisture, and prevent rashes or infections. Additionally, the rising expenditure capacities of consumers and the busy nature of modern life are further facilitating the product demand.

Breakup by Product Type (Adult Diaper):

• Pad Type
• Flat Type
• Pant Type
   

Pad Type account for the majority of the market share

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market based on the product type (adult diaper) has also been provided in the report. This includes pad type, flat type, and pant type. According to the report, the pad type segment accounted for the largest market share.

Pad-type diapers are widely used among adults as they are designed for ease of use and are pre-assembled, eliminating the need for folding or pinning like traditional cloth diapers. They are engineered with advanced absorbent materials and technology, ensuring they can hold a significant amount of liquid without leaking. Moreover, the rising geriatric population and growing prevalence of bladder control issues, such as urinary incontinence, is acting as another growth-inducing factor. Apart from this, the widespread product adoption owing to the growing awareness and acceptance of adult incontinence issues has reduced the stigma associated with using diapers among adults.

Breakup by Distribution Channel:

• Supermarkets and Hypermarkets
• Pharmacies
• Convenience Stores
• Online Stores
• Others
   

Pharmacies hold the largest share in the market

A detailed breakup and analysis of the market has been provided based on distribution channel. This Includes supermarkets and hypermarkets, pharmacies, convenience stores, online Stores, others. According to the report, pharmacies accounted for the largest market share.

Pharmacies in the GCC are not just seen as dispensers of medication they are considered reliable destinations for various healthcare and hygiene products, including diapers. This perception elevates the trust factor, leading consumers to view pharmacies as credible sources for high-quality diaper products. Moreover, the proximity and ubiquity of pharmacies make them convenient points of purchase. This ease of access can be particularly crucial for emergency purchases, which are not uncommon given the unpredictable nature of childcare and adult incontinence needs. Along with this, pharmacies also frequently offer loyalty programs and discounts on healthcare products, making them an attractive retail option from a cost perspective.

Breakup by Country:

• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Qatar
• Oman
• Kuwait
• Bahrain
   

Saudi Arabia exhibits a clear dominance in the market

The market research report has also provided a comprehensive analysis of all the major regional markets, which include Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, and Bahrain. According to the report, Saudi Arabia accounted for the largest market share.

Saudi Arabia is the most populous country within the GCC, with a high birth rate compared to other member states. The sheer number of infants and toddlers naturally contributes to a higher demand for diapers. Moreover, Saudi Arabia has a relatively young population, indicating a sustained future demand for baby-related products, including diapers. Moreover, the rising health and hygiene awareness among the masses is fueling the market growth. furthermore, rising expenditure capacities of consumers and growing ability to afford quality products propels the demand for premium and specialized diapers, further contributing to market share.

Competitive Landscape:

The growing research and development (R&D) activities aimed at improving convenience, comfort, and sustainability is propelling the market growth. The launch of biodegradable and eco-friendly diaper options made from plant-based materials, such as bamboo or cornstarch, and are designed to decompose more quickly than traditional diapers, is contributing to the market growth. Moreover, key players are focusing on various advancements in technology which have led to the creation of "smart diapers," which come with sensors that can send alerts to a connected device when a change is needed. These diapers can also monitor variables like urine pH levels, offering insights into the user’s health. Some brands are now offering customizable diapers that allow consumers to choose patterns or colors. This appeals to consumers looking for products that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

The market research report has provided a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the market. Detailed profiles of all major companies have also been provided.

GCC Diaper Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s industry report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecasts, and dynamics of the GCC diaper market from 2019-2033.
• The research report provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the GCC diaper market.
• Porter's five forces analysis assist stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the GCC diaper industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.