Middle East & Africa Veterinary Services Market Outlook, 2028

The Middle East and Africa, with their diverse ecosystems and rich biodiversity, are home to a vast array of animals, from majestic wildlife to essential livestock. Ensuring the health and welfare of these animals is a multifaceted challenge that has given rise to a dynamic culture of veterinary services in the region. From safeguarding wildlife to supporting agriculture and addressing zoonotic diseases, veterinary professionals play a pivotal role in promoting animal health and contributing to regional development. Wildlife veterinarians in both the Middle East and Africa are responsible for monitoring animal populations, providing medical care to injured or orphaned animals, and conducting research to advance our understanding of these creatures. They also play a crucial role in anti-poaching initiatives, aiding in the protection of endangered species from illegal hunting and trade. Both regions grapple with the challenge of transboundary animal diseases, which can have significant economic and public health impacts. Veterinarians collaborate across borders to control diseases like foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and African swine fever. These efforts not only protect livestock but also safeguard human populations from zoonotic diseases. Agriculture is a cornerstone of many Middle Eastern and African economies, with a focus on traditional livestock farming practices. Veterinarians in these regions ensure the health and productivity of livestock, which may include cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry. The veterinary sector supports farmers with animal healthcare, vaccinations, and disease management, contributing to food security. In many parts of Africa and the Middle East, nomadic or semi-nomadic herding remains a way of life. Veterinary professionals recognize the mobility of livestock and provide essential services through mobile clinics. These clinics travel to remote areas, ensuring that even the most isolated herders have access to veterinary care.

According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Veterinary Services Market Outlook, 2028” the market is anticipated to more than USD 8 Billion market size by 2028. Veterinary services in the Middle East and Africa are not without challenges. Harsh environmental conditions, including desert climates, necessitate specialized knowledge and adaptation. Economic limitations can also pose obstacles to healthcare access for both animals and humans. However, the regions are increasingly adopting a One Health approach, recognizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Collaboration between veterinarians, medical professionals, and environmentalists is crucial to addressing complex health issues holistically. In arid regions, such as the Sahara Desert in North Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, veterinarians must adapt their practices to the unique challenges posed by extreme heat, sandstorms, and limited water resources. These factors can affect animal health and require specialized care strategies. The regions have faced outbreaks of emerging infectious diseases like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) and Rift Valley fever. Veterinary services play a pivotal role in monitoring, controlling, and preventing these diseases, which can have serious public health implications. In some regions with extensive water resources, veterinarians may tackle waterborne diseases that affect livestock, such as trypanosomiasis in cattle. Effective disease control is vital for the productivity of these animals. The growth of eco-tourism in both regions has created opportunities and challenges for wildlife conservation. Veterinary services are instrumental in monitoring the health of animals involved in eco-tourism activities. Some cultural festivals in the Middle East and Africa involve the use of animals, such as camels, horses, or birds, for entertainment purposes. Veterinarians are increasingly involved in promoting animal welfare and ensuring that animals used in such events are treated humanely.

The Middle East & Africa market is segmented into three major countries including United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia and South Africa. Among them, Saudi Arabia is occupying lion’s share across the overall market. Saudi Arabia is experiencing a significant increase in pet ownership, particularly among the urban population. Cats and dogs are the most popular companion animals. As more people welcome pets into their homes, the demand for veterinary services, including routine check-ups, vaccinations, and pet care, is on the rise. There's a growing awareness of the importance of animal health and welfare in Saudi Arabia. Pet owners are increasingly willing to invest in the health and well-being of their animals, leading to higher demand for specialized veterinary care and services. Saudi Arabia has a substantial livestock industry, including dairy and meat production. Ensuring the health and productivity of livestock is crucial for food security. Veterinary services play a pivotal role in disease control, biosecurity, and herd management. Saudi Arabia has invested in modernizing and expanding its veterinary infrastructure. This includes the establishment of state-of-the-art veterinary clinics, hospitals, and research facilities. Such investments not only improve the quality of care but also attract skilled veterinarians and specialists. Saudi Arabia has established veterinary colleges and research institutions that contribute to the development of skilled veterinarians and advance research in areas like animal health, zoonotic diseases, and food safety. Saudi Arabia serves as a regional hub for veterinary services in the Middle East. It attracts veterinary professionals and specialists from neighbouring countries, further boosting the sector's growth and expertise.

The Production Animals segment is expected to have the highest market share in the MEA veterinary services market. Agriculture is a crucial sector in many MEA countries, with a focus on livestock farming for meat, dairy, and other animal products. Production animals, including cattle, sheep, goats, and poultry, are fundamental to food security and the economies of these regions. MEA regions often have significant populations of production animals, particularly cattle and sheep. These animals are essential sources of meat, milk, and other products for both local consumption and export. Production animals are susceptible to various diseases, some of which can have devastating economic impacts. Veterinary services play a critical role in disease control and prevention, including vaccination programs and disease surveillance. Some MEA countries are major exporters of livestock and livestock products, such as beef and lamb. Exporting countries must comply with international health and safety standards, necessitating veterinary inspections and certifications. The One Health approach, emphasizing the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health, underscores the importance of veterinary care for production animals in preventing zoonotic diseases. In addition, Companion animals are often considered integral parts of the family, and their owners are increasingly willing to invest in their healthcare. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care. Pet owners are becoming more proactive in maintaining their pets' health. This includes preventive measures such as vaccinations, flea and tick control, dental care, and nutrition management - all of which require veterinary services. Some pet owners in MEA regions seek alternative therapies, such as acupuncture, chiropractic care, and herbal medicine, for their pets. Veterinary services may offer these complementary treatments. The adoption of pet-friendly policies in workplaces, housing, and public spaces encourages pet ownership and a greater commitment to pet health and welfare.

In terms of Companion animals, the veterinary services market is segmented into Dogs, Cats, Horses and Others. Horse riding is a popular sport and leisure activity in the Middle East and Africa region. It is enjoyed by people of all ages and from all walks of life. The sport is also becoming increasingly competitive, with more and more people participating in horse racing, show jumping, and dressage. The number of horse farms in the Middle East and Africa region is growing. This is due to the increasing popularity of horse riding, as well as the growing disposable income of people in this region. Horse farms provide a variety of services, including boarding, training, and breeding. The disposable income of people in the Middle East and Africa region is growing. This is making it possible for more people to afford to own and care for horses. Horses can be expensive to buy, feed, and maintain, but the high disposable income of people in this region means that they are able to afford these costs. In addition production animals, the veterinary services market is segmented into cattle, poultry, swine and others. Poultry meat is a popular and affordable source of protein in Middle East & Africa. The demand for poultry meat is growing due to factors such as population growth, rising incomes, and urbanization. The poultry industry in Middle East & Africa is growing rapidly, and there is significant investment in the sector. This is leading to the development of modern poultry farms, which require veterinary care. There is a growing awareness of animal welfare in Middle East & Africa. This is leading to increased demand for veterinary services for poultry, as people are more concerned about the health and well-being of these animals. There have been significant advances in poultry medicine in recent years, such as the development of new vaccines and treatments. This is making it possible to provide better care for poultry.

The diagnostic tests and imaging segment is expected to have the highest CAGR during the forecast period in the Middle East and Africa veterinary services. The Middle East and Africa region is a hotspot for animal diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and rinderpest. This requires regular diagnostic testing and imaging to identify and treat diseases early. There have been significant advances in diagnostic technology in recent years, such as the development of new imaging techniques. This is making it possible to diagnose diseases more accurately and quickly. There is a growing awareness of animal welfare in the Middle East and Africa region. This is leading to increased demand for diagnostic tests and imaging, as people are more concerned about the health and well-being of their animals. The disposable income of people in the Middle East and Africa region is growing. This is making it possible for more people to afford diagnostic tests and imaging for their animals. Governments in the Middle East and Africa region are supporting the development of the veterinary sector, by providing funding for diagnostic tests and imaging. In addition, The Middle East and Africa region is a hotspot for animal diseases, such as foot-and-mouth disease, avian influenza, and rinderpest. These diseases can be devastating to livestock populations, and vaccination is the most effective way to prevent them. There is a growing demand for organic and sustainable livestock production in the Middle East and Africa region. This is driving the demand for vaccination, as these production methods require animals to be vaccinated against diseases. Social media is being increasingly used to raise awareness about animal diseases and the importance of vaccination. This is leading to increased demand for vaccination services.

The market is divided into Veterinary Hospital, Veterinary Clinic, Outdoors/ Ambulatory and Online based on end user. Veterinary hospitals typically offer a wide range of advanced medical services, including surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging (such as X-rays and ultrasounds), and laboratory testing. This attracts a significant number of pet owners and livestock farmers seeking specialized care. Veterinary hospitals employ specialized veterinarians and support staff with expertise in various fields, such as surgery, internal medicine, cardiology, oncology, and radiology. This expertise is essential for diagnosing and treating complex medical conditions in animals. Many veterinary hospitals in MEA regions provide 24/7 emergency and critical care services. This availability is crucial for addressing emergencies and urgent medical conditions in both companion animals and production animals. Veterinary hospitals often have in-house pharmacies, allowing pet owners and livestock farmers to conveniently purchase prescribed medications and veterinary products. In addition, the use of smartphones and other mobile devices is growing rapidly in the Middle East and Africa region. This is making it easier for people to access online veterinary services. The availability of broadband internet is growing rapidly in the Middle East and Africa region. This is making it possible for people to access online veterinary services with higher speeds and better quality.

Market Dynamics:

Focus on Preventive Care: There is a growing emphasis on preventive care, including vaccinations, parasite control, and nutrition counselling, to keep pets healthy and reduce the need for extensive treatments. Veterinary clinics are offering wellness packages and educational resources to promote preventive care. Veterinarians create customized vaccination schedules for pets based on their age, species, lifestyle, and risk factors. This ensures that pets receive the necessary vaccines to protect them from common and potentially deadly diseases. Obesity is a common health issue in pets. Veterinary clinics provide weight management counselling to help overweight pets shed pounds through controlled diets and exercise plans.

Awareness of Zoonotic Diseases: Heightened awareness of zoonotic diseases, which can transmit between animals and humans, is driving demand for preventive measures and disease control services. This includes vaccinations, parasite control, and education on zoonotic disease transmission. Veterinary clinics emphasize good hygiene and sanitation practices in pet care. Proper disposal of pet waste, regular hand washing and disinfection of pet living areas are essential to prevent disease transmission. Veterinarians educate pet owners about safe food handling practices to prevent foodborne zoonotic diseases. This includes proper storage, handling, and cooking of pet and human food.

Key Players Insights:

IDEXX Laboratories Inc., Mars Incorporated, Neogen Corporation, Zoetis Inc, Boehringer Ingelheim, Virbac, Dechra Pharmaceuticals plc, Vetoquinol.

Considered in this report

• Geography: Middle East & Africa
• Historic year: 2017
• Base year: 2022
• Estimated year: 2023
• Forecast year: 2028

Aspects covered in this report

• Middle East & Africa Veterinary Services with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Veterinary Services market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia

By Animal Type

• Production Animals
• Companion Animals

By Companion Animals

• Dogs
• Cats
• Horses
• Others

By Production Animals

• Cattle
• Poultry
• Swine
• Others

By service Type

• Physical Health Monitoring
• Surgery
• Diagnostic Tests& imaging
• Artificial Insemination
• Grooming
• Vaccination
• Others (Biosecurity, Dental Care, etc.)

By End User

• Veterinary Hospital
• Veterinary Clinic
• outdoors/ Ambulatory
• online

The approach of the report:

This report consists of a combined approach of primary and secondary research. Initially, secondary research was used to get an understanding of the market and list the companies that are present in it. The secondary research consists of third-party sources such as press releases, annual reports of companies, and government-generated reports and databases. After gathering the data from secondary sources, primary research was conducted by conducting telephone interviews with the leading players about how the market is functioning and then conducting trade calls with dealers and distributors of the market. Post this; we have started making primary calls to consumers by equally segmenting them in regional aspects, tier aspects, age group, and gender. Once we have primary data with us, we can start verifying the details obtained from secondary sources.

Intended audience

This report can be useful to industry consultants, manufacturers, suppliers, associations and organizations related to the Veterinary Services industry, government bodies, and other stakeholders to align their market-centric strategies. In addition to marketing and presentations, it will also increase competitive knowledge about the industry.