Middle East & Africa Online Fitness Market Outlook, 2028

In the Middle East & Africa there is a growing awareness of the importance of health and fitness region. People are becoming more health-conscious and seeking convenient ways to incorporate fitness into their lives. Cultural norms in some Middle East & Africa countries can prioritize privacy, especially for women. Online fitness platforms offer a private and comfortable environment for individuals to work out at home, avoiding the need for mixed-gender gym settings. The use of fitness wearables like smartwatches and fitness trackers is on the rise in the Middle East & Africa region. These devices sync with online fitness apps to monitor health metrics and track physical activity. The youth population in the Middle East & Africa region is substantial, and many young people are enthusiastic about fitness and well-being. Online fitness platforms cater to this demographic by offering engaging and interactive workouts. The Middle East & Africa region is culturally diverse, with various fitness preferences and practices. Online fitness platforms provide a wide range of workout styles, from yoga and Pilates to high-intensity interval training (HIIT) and dance workouts, to accommodate different cultural tastes. Online fitness platforms connect users in the Middle East & Africa region with expert trainers and instructors from around the world. This exposure to diverse fitness expertise enhances the quality of workouts and training available. Virtual personal training sessions with certified trainers are gaining popularity in the Middle East & Africa region. Users can receive personalized coaching and guidance tailored to their fitness goals and needs. Many online fitness platforms offer content in Arabic, French, and other regional languages, making fitness resources more accessible to a wider audience in the Middle East & Africa region. Online fitness culture in the Middle East & Africa region often includes a focus on healthy eating and nutrition. Users can access meal planning guides, dietary advice, and recipes to complement their fitness routines. Given the prevalence of smartphones in the Middle East & Africa region, online fitness platforms prioritize mobile accessibility. Apps and mobile-friendly websites are designed to ensure ease of use on smartphones and tablets. Online fitness can be a cost-effective option compared to traditional gym memberships and personal training sessions. This affordability is appealing to many individuals in the Middle East & Africa region.

According to the research report, “Middle East & Africa Online Fitness Market Outlook, 2028” the market is anticipated to cross more than USD 1.90 Billion market size by 2028. Businesses and industries across the Middle East & Africa region are embracing digital transformation, including the fitness industry. Traditional fitness centers and gyms are increasingly offering online services to cater to a broader audience and remain competitive. The Middle East & Africa region has a youthful population, and many young individuals are enthusiastic about fitness and well-being. Online fitness platforms appeal to this demographic by offering engaging and interactive workouts, often with elements of gamification. In some Middle East & Africa countries, cultural norms prioritize privacy for women when it comes to fitness. Online fitness allows women to work out in the comfort of their homes, promoting female empowerment and participation in fitness activities. Online fitness can be more cost-effective than traditional gym memberships and personal training sessions. This affordability makes fitness accessible to a broader range of individuals, including those with limited financial resources. Online fitness platforms extend access to fitness resources in remote and underserved areas of the Middle East & Africa region. This is especially important in regions with limited access to gyms or fitness facilities. The integration of technology such as virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and wearables is enhancing the online fitness experience, making workouts more engaging and immersive. The Middle East & Africa region has its share of fitness influencers and celebrities who promote online fitness platforms. Their endorsements and collaborations help raise awareness and drive user engagement in online fitness programs. Online fitness platforms in the Middle East & Africa region often offer specialized programs and resources for individuals with specific health conditions, such as diabetes, obesity, or cardiovascular issues. This inclusivity ensures that a wide range of individuals can benefit from online fitness.

Based on countries, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, among them the Saudi Arabia dominate the Middle East & Africa Online market. Saudi Arabia has a high rate of internet penetration, with a large percentage of the population having access to high-speed internet. This widespread connectivity makes it easier for individuals to access and engage with online fitness platforms. The country has seen a rapid increase in smartphone adoption, and many Saudi residents own smartphones with internet access. This mobile-friendly environment makes it convenient for users to access fitness apps and content on the go. The Saudi government has actively promoted health and fitness as part of its Vision 2030 plan, which aims to diversify the economy and improve the quality of life for citizens. As a result, there have been investments in promoting physical activity, including support for online fitness programs. There is a growing awareness of health and wellness in Saudi Arabia, with individuals seeking ways to lead healthier lifestyles. Online fitness aligns with these health-conscious goals. The rapid urbanization and changing lifestyles in Saudi Arabia have led to busier schedules, making online fitness a more convenient option for many individuals who not have the time to commute to physical gyms or studios. Saudi Arabia practices gender segregation in many public spaces, which can make traditional gym visits challenging for women. Online fitness offers a private and comfortable environment for women to work out at home.

On-Demand streaming offers users the ultimate flexibility and convenience. Users can access fitness content whenever they want, at their preferred time, and from any location with an internet connection. This flexibility aligns well with the busy and varied schedules of individuals in the Middle East & Africa region. The Middle East & Africa region spans multiple time zones, making live streaming of fitness classes challenging for providers and users. On-Demand content eliminates the need to adhere to specific live schedules, making it accessible to users in different time zones. On-Demand streaming allows users to choose from a vast library of workout videos and fitness content. Users can select workouts that suit their fitness levels, preferences, and goals. This customization empowers users to design their fitness routines. Some users in the Middle East & Africa region prioritize privacy and may prefer working out at home. On-Demand streaming allows individuals to exercise in the comfort and privacy of their own space, which aligns with cultural norms in some areas. Many On-Demand platforms allow users to download workout videos for offline viewing. This feature is beneficial for users with limited or unreliable internet access, which can be a challenge in some parts of the Middle East & Africa region. On-Demand workouts often include a variety of routines that require minimal or no equipment. This is advantageous for users who may not have access to gym equipment or prefer bodyweight exercises.

In addition based on end user the market is divided into Professional Gyms, Sports Institutes, Defence Institute, Educational Institutes, Corporate Institution, Individuals and Others (hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior centers.). Professional gyms, including fitness centers and health clubs, are already well-established in the Middle East & Africa region. They have a robust presence and a dedicated customer base seeking fitness solutions. Many professional gyms in the Middle East & Africa region are actively embracing digital transformation. They are incorporating online fitness services as an extension of their offerings to cater to the evolving preferences of their members. Professional gyms are increasingly adopting hybrid fitness models that combine in-person and online fitness experiences. This hybrid approach allows gyms to provide members with greater flexibility and variety in their workouts. Professional gyms often have a roster of certified trainers and instructors. They can leverage their existing talent pool to deliver high-quality online fitness classes and training sessions. Professional gyms have access to fitness facilities, equipment, and resources. They can use their physical spaces to enhance online fitness experiences by live-streaming classes from well-equipped studios or offering virtual tours of their gym facilities.

Subscription models provide a predictable and steady stream of revenue for online fitness providers. This stability is attractive for businesses looking to maintain financial sustainability and plan for long-term growth. Subscription pricing is often structured to be affordable, making it accessible to a wide range of users in the Middle East & Africa region. Users can access a variety of fitness content and features for a fixed monthly or annual fee, which is typically more cost-effective than purchasing individual classes or sessions. Subscribers receive on-going access to a comprehensive library of fitness content, including workout videos, nutrition guidance, and wellness resources. This value proposition encourages users to commit to their fitness goals and maintain their subscriptions. Online fitness providers regularly update their content libraries with new workouts, classes, and programs. Subscribers benefit from fresh and engaging content, preventing workout monotony and promoting user retention. In addition based on session type, Group sessions foster a sense of community and social interaction among participants. Users in the Middle East & Africa region often value group experiences and enjoy working out with others, even in virtual settings. Group sessions allow users to connect, motivate each other, and share their fitness journeys. Group fitness classes have long been popular in the Middle East & Africa region, reflecting a cultural preference for communal activities. Online group sessions extend this cultural tradition into the digital realm, making it more accessible to a wider audience. Live group sessions provide real-time interaction between participants and instructors. This interaction allows users to ask questions, receive immediate feedback, and adjust their form during workouts. Group sessions are often scheduled at specific times, creating a routine for users. This scheduling structure helps individuals plan their fitness activities and incorporate them into their daily lives.

Based on end user the market is divided into Professional Gyms, Sports Institutes, Defence Institute, Educational Institutes, Corporate Institution, Individuals and Others (hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and senior centers.). Laptops and desktops offer larger screen sizes compared to smartphones and tablets. This advantage is particularly important for users in the Middle East & Africa region who prefer to follow detailed workout instructions, view exercise demonstrations, and read fitness content on a bigger screen. Fitness enthusiasts often require a clear and detailed view of workout videos, exercise routines, and instructor demonstrations. Laptops and desktops provide an optimal visual experience, allowing users to see fitness content with greater clarity. Extended workout sessions, especially those involving tutorials or guided workouts, are more comfortable to follow on laptops and desktops. Users can set up their devices at a comfortable eye level, reducing strain and fatigue during longer fitness sessions. Laptops and desktops allow for easy multi-tasking. Users can simultaneously access workout videos, track their progress, browse fitness-related content, and even connect with fitness communities or social networks while maintaining a clear view of their fitness activities. Fitness tracking, data analysis, and performance monitoring are important aspects of online fitness. Laptops and desktops offer a more convenient platform for users to analyze their fitness data, set goals, and track their progress over time. Users who engage in meal planning and nutritional analysis as part of their fitness routines often prefer laptops and desktops for the detailed data input and analysis required. Users often use laptops and desktops for purchasing fitness equipment, apparel, and supplements online, which may be part of their fitness routines.

Companies Covered in this report:

Fitbit LLC, ClassPass Inc., Barry's , Peloton Interactive Inc, F45 Training, Decathlon, Technogym SpA, Apple Inc., Nike Inc. and Snap Fitness.

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

Country covered in the report:

• United Arab Emirates
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa

By Streaming Type

• Live
• On-Demand

By Session Type

• Group
• Solo

By Device Type

• Smartphones
• Smart TV
• Laptops & Desktops
• Others (Tablets)

By Revenue Model

• Subscription
• Advertisement
• Hybrid

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 organisations related to the Online Fitness 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.