Middle East & Africa Sports Sunglasses Market Forecast to 2030 - Regional Analysis - by Type (Polarized and Non-Polarized), Category (Men, Women, Unisex, and Kids), and Distribution Channel (Supermarkets and Hypermarkets, Specialty Stores, Online Retail, and Others)

The Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is expected to grow from US$ 445.16 million in 2022 to US$ 734.67 million by 2030. It is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 6.5% from 2022 to 2030.

Emerging Inclination Toward Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Products Drive Middle East & Africa Sports Sunglasses Market

Growing awareness regarding sustainable and eco-friendly products and commitment to environmental responsibility among consumers and manufacturers propel the demand for products aligning with their eco-conscious values. As environmental concerns become pronounced, individuals participating in outdoor activities and sports seek products that minimize their ecological footprint. Sports sunglasses made of sustainable materials, such as recycled plastics, bamboo, or other biodegradable options, gain popularity. These materials reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing and offer a sustainable end-of-life cycle, which resonates with eco-conscious consumers.

Furthermore, eco-friendly manufacturing processes and practices are becoming a focal point in the sports sunglasses market. Brands are reducing waste, minimizing energy consumption, and lowering their carbon footprint while producing eyewear. This commitment to sustainable practices enhances the brand's reputation and resonates with consumers who prioritize environment-friendly products. Sea2see, a sustainable premium eyewear brand, offers sports sunglasses made of 100% up-cycled sea plastic. Also, uvex group, a manufacturer of protective eyewear, offers uvex downhill 2100 CV planet ski goggles made of consistently sustainable materials - from lens to strap. This product received an award in the "product design" category in 2022. According to the jury, the uvex downhill 2100 CV planet design remarkably cleverly responds to the desire of an environmentally conscious generation of consumers to combine sustainability and modern design. Such product launches and initiatives by various manufacturers fulfill the demand of environment-conscious consumers.

Furthermore, in response to this trend, some manufacturers are embracing circular economy principles, offering repair and recycling programs for their sports sunglasses. This approach extends the lifespan of products and minimizes waste, appealing to consumers looking for long-lasting and sustainable eyewear options. By integrating sustainability into their core values, companies are capitalizing on a growing demand for eco-friendly sports sunglasses and contributing to a more environmentally responsible sports industry.

Middle East & Africa Sports Sunglasses Market Overview

The market in the region has seen prominent growth owing to extensive government investments in the sports sector. For instance, Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, spent over US$ 65 billion on sports development in 2022, with a prime focus on football and e-sports, which are deemed to have the most significant potential for revenue growth. Simultaneously, the arrangement of major sporting events is on the rise across the region. Saudi Arabia has hosted "The Darker Rally" event for motorsport since 2020, which has been attracting thousands of the world's off-road drivers to the deserts of Saudi Arabia. In March 2023, the UAE hosted the Dubai Racing World Cup at the Meydan Racecourse. Therefore, hosting mega sporting events benefits the region's economy, leading to awareness regarding such sports among the masses, which subsequently results in increased participation in various sports activities every year. Sportsmen in car racing, cycling, and water sports require sports sunglasses. Sunglasses incorporated with polycarbonate-polarized lenses and multiple lamination layers fused into one rigid lens provide superior optical qualities during sports action. Even hard coating, tinting, polarized, UV absorbing, and impact resistance layers deliver outstanding protection from glare, impact, and harmful UV rays.

The increasing awareness about the importance of sports and physical fitness among individuals and fitness enthusiasts is further driving the demand for sports sunglasses in the Middle East & Africa. As people are increasingly participating in various sports, the need for sports equipment and accessories such as sports sunglasses has surged. Additionally, factors such as rising disposable income resulted in more spending on high-quality sports sunglasses, further bolstering the sports sunglasses market growth across the Middle East & Africa.

Middle East & Africa Sports Sunglasses Market Segmentation

The Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is segmented into type, category, distribution channel, and country.

Based on type, the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is bifurcated into polarized and non-polarized. The non-polarized segment held a larger share of the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market in 2022.

Based on category, the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is segmented into men, women, unisex, and kids. The men segment held the largest share of the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market in 2022.

Based on distribution channel, the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is segmented into supermarkets and hypermarkets, specialty stores, online retail, and others. The specialty stores segment held the largest share of the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market in 2022.

Based on country, the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market is segmented into South Africa, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the Rest of Middle East & Africa. The Rest of Middle East & Africa dominated the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market in 2022.

Adidas AG, Decathlon SE, EssilorLuxottica SA, Nike Inc, Puma SE, Safilo Group SpA, and Under Armour Inc are some of the leading companies operating in the Middle East & Africa sports sunglasses market.