Middle East & Africa Hair Extension & Wigs Market Outlook, 2028

The hair extension and wig market in the Middle East and Africa is a diverse and dynamic market with a wide range of products and services available to meet the needs and preferences of consumers. The hair extension and wig market in the Middle East and Africa is growing with a lot of potential. The market is primarily driven by the desire for women to achieve longer, fuller hair, as well as by cultural and religious traditions that place a high value on hair and beauty. In the Middle East, countries such as Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar have a large and growing market for hair extensions and wigs. This is due in part to the fact that many women in these countries wear traditional head coverings, such as hijabs or abayas, which can make it difficult to achieve certain hairstyles without the use of extensions or wigs. In Africa, the market is also growing rapidly, driven by the popularity of braided and other intricate hairstyles. Countries such as Nigeria and South Africa have a large and growing market for hair extensions and wigs. Cultural and religious factors also play a significant role in the hair extension and wig market in the Middle East and Africa region, with many women opting for modest styles that cover their hair or add volume and length to their natural hair. Modesty is an important value in many cultures in the Middle East and Africa region, particularly among Muslim women who wear hijabs or other head coverings. As a result, many women choose to wear hair extensions or wigs that provide extra volume or length to their natural hair while still maintaining a modest appearance. Some religions have specific requirements regarding the appearance of hair, particularly for women. For example, in Islam, women are required to cover their hair in public, while in Orthodox Judaism; married women are expected to cover their hair with a headscarf or wig. As a result, the demand for hair extensions and wigs that comply with religious dress codes can be high in certain communities.

According to the research report, Middle East and Africa Hair Extensions and Wigs Market Outlook, 2028 the market is anticipated to reach a size of USD 710 million by 2028. The rising fashion trends among the young population, expanding distribution channels, and high purchasing power are the primary factors driving the hair styling products market in the region. As the most prominent users, the concentration of internet user penetration increased in Qatar, Bahrain, and the United Arab Emirates. The United Arab Emirates has the highest smartphone penetration rate in the world, with a significant portion of the population carrying a smartphone in their pocket. Convenience, the availability of multiple brands, and discounts offered by online retailers have further fuelled online sales. Social media has a significant influence on fashion and beauty trends, particularly among young people. Many teens in the Middle East and Africa region follow social media influencers and celebrities who wear hair extensions and wigs and are inspired to try these styles themselves. Further, western hairstyles are becoming increasingly popular among teens in the Middle East and Africa region. Hair extensions and wigs can help achieve these hairstyles, which may include long, straight hair or bold, colourful styles.

Teens often use their appearance as a way to express their individuality and identity. Hair extensions and wigs can be a fun and creative way to experiment with different styles and looks. Weddings, proms, and other special events are important occasions for teens in the Middle East and Africa region, and many want to look their best for these events. Hair extensions and wigs can help create a glamorous, red-carpet look for these occasions. On the other hand, hair loss can be a sensitive issue in many cultures, particularly among women. In some cases, hair loss may be due to medical conditions such as cancer or alopecia, while in other cases it may be a result of ageing or hormonal changes. Hair extensions and wigs can provide a solution for women who are experiencing hair loss or thinning, allowing them to maintain a full head of hair and regain their confidence. According to the report, based on product types, wigs are projected to lead the market by the end of the forecast period, whereas hair extensions are expected to grow at a higher CAGR during the upcoming time frame.

According to the report, the market is further categorised into three major countries, including the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, and South Africa. South Africa leads the market in 2022 and is expected to maintain its dominance by the end of the forecast period. In Africa, much like the rest of the world, hair plays a significant role in society. In ancient Africa, it symbolised one’s family background, social status, spirituality, tribe, marital status, and fertility. Today, it continues to hold similar significance around wealth and wellbeing. However, the African hair industry has changed dramatically. About a decade and a half ago, dry hair - weaves, extensions, and wigs - was almost unheard of on the continent. The market for hair extensions and wigs in South Africa is mainly dominated by local brands such as XOXO Hair, Darling Hair, Brazilian Hair, African Queen Hair, Hair City, etc., although international brands are also available in the market. The availability of both synthetic and human hair extensions and wigs at varying prices and quality levels also contributes to the market's growth. Based on hair type, the human hair segment is leading the market. However, synthetic hair extensions and wigs are also popular in the Middle East & Africa market, particularly for those looking for more affordable options or for temporary styles.

Further, like many other regions of the world, fashion and beauty trends play a significant role in the hair extension and wig market in the Middle East and Africa region. Women may choose to wear hair extensions or wigs in order to achieve a particular style or look that is currently popular. In the Middle East and Africa, there is a growing trend towards more natural-looking hair extensions and wigs. This is due to an increasing awareness of the importance of hair health and a desire for a more natural look. There is also a growing trend for bold and bright hair colours, with many women in the Middle East and Africa region opting for vibrant hues such as pink, blue, and purple. Textured and curly hair extensions and wigs are also gaining popularity in the Middle East & Africa region, as they allow women to experiment with different styles and add volume to their hair. Ombre and balayage hair colouring techniques are popular in the Middle East and Africa region, with many women opting for a gradual fade from their natural hair colour to a lighter shade. Protective hairstyles such as braids, twists, and weaves are also popular in the Middle East and Africa region, as they help to protect natural hair from damage while still allowing for a stylish and versatile look.

Based on the report, the market is segmented into online and offline distribution channels. In 2022, the offline segment will lead the market. Beauty supply stores are a popular sales channel for hair extensions and wigs in the Middle East and Africa region. These stores carry a wide range of hair products and are often frequented by professional stylists and consumers alike. Some popular beauty supply stores in the Middle East & Africa region include Wow Beauty Supply, Sally Beauty, and Beauty Connection. Hair salons are another common sales channel for hair extensions and wigs in the Middle East and Africa region. Some popular hair salons in the Middle East and Africa region include Afrodesiac Worldwide, A’Kiyia’s Natural Twist & Hair Braiding, and Ziza Hair & Beauty Salon. Some hair extension and wig brands in the Middle East & Africa region sell their products directly to consumers through their own websites or social media channels. Examples of brands that sell directly to consumers in the Middle East and Africa region include Alimoda Hair, Beauty Forever, and Hair By Mimi.

Department stores are another sales channel for hair extensions and wigs in the Middle East and Africa region. These stores often have a beauty section that carries hair products, including extensions and wigs. Examples of department stores that sell hair products in the Middle East & Africa region include Macy’s, Debenhams, and Galeries Lafayette. With the rise of e-commerce, online marketplaces have become a popular sales channel for hair extensions and wigs in the Middle East and Africa region. Online marketplaces such as Jumia, Souq, and Konga offer a wide range of hair products from different brands and suppliers, making it easy for consumers to compare and purchase products. There are many other channels that brands and suppliers may use to reach customers, including trade shows, pop-up shops, and mobile apps. Glamour Hair Boutique, Hair Inc., Mane Addicts, and The Wig Lady are some of the pop-up shops in the Middle East and Africa.Pop-up shops offer a great opportunity for brands to connect with customers in a more personal and direct way and are a great way to build brand loyalty and generate sales.

Some of the major trade shows for the hair extension and wig market in the Middle East and Africa region

• Beautyworld Middle East is the largest international trade fair for beauty products, hair, fragrances, and wellbeing in the Middle East and Africa region. The show attracts over 44,000 visitors and 1,800 exhibitors from around the world. It takes place annually in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and features a dedicated section for hair products, including hair extensions and wigs.
• Afro Hair and Beauty Live is the largest trade show for black hair and beauty in the UK and attracts visitors from across the Middle East and Africa region. The show features over 100 exhibitors, including hair extension and wig brands, and offers educational seminars, live demos, and networking opportunities. It takes place annually in London, UK.
• Cosmoprof Africa is the largest international trade fair for the beauty industry in Africa. The show features a wide range of beauty products, including hair extensions and wigs, and attracts visitors from across the Middle East & Africa region. It takes place annually in Johannesburg, South Africa.
• Professional Beauty GCC is the largest trade show for beauty professionals in the GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) region. The show features over 200 exhibitors, including hair extension and wig brands, and offers educational seminars, live demos, and networking opportunities. It takes place annually in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
• Beauty Africa Exhibition & Conferences is a trade show that brings together beauty professionals from across the Middle East and Africa region. The show features a dedicated section for hair products, including hair extensions and wigs, and offers educational seminars, live demos, and networking opportunities. It takes place annually in Lagos, Nigeria.

Companies Mentioned in this Report:

Great Lengths GmbH, Hena Rebca Hair Products Co., Ltd., Hair Dreams GmbH, Artnature inc., Richy Hair Extensions International, Rio Brazil Salon, Black Diamond Hair Company.

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 Hair Extension and Wigs market with its value and forecast along with its segments
• Country-wise Hair Extension and Wigs market analysis
• Various drivers and challenges
• On-going trends and developments
• Top profiled companies
• Strategic recommendation

Countries covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Product Type:

• Extensions
• Wigs
• Toupee

By Hair Type:

• Human Hair
• Synthetic

By End User:

• Individual Consumers
• Entertainment & Fashion Industry

By Distribution Channel:

• Online
• Offline

By Gender:

• Men
• Women

The approach of the report:

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

Intended audience

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