Turkish olive oil consumption in the Gulf countries (Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman): Best-selling brands

In recent years, the Gulf countries of Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman have seen a significant increase in olive oil consumption as the importance placed on healthy eating has increased. While palm oil and butter are traditionally preferred in these countries, interest in Turkish, Italian, and Spanish olive oils has increased significantly, particularly in the last decade. During this period, extra virgin olive oil from Turkey's Aegean Region quickly gained a foothold in these three countries thanks to its delicious flavor, natural production methods, and affordable premium quality. The rise of Turkish restaurants in Kuwait, the growth of the middle-income group in Bahrain, and the development of tourism in Oman have directly impacted the demand for Turkish olive oil. Among the best-selling brands in these markets are Bereket Zeytinyağı, Tari, Pınar, Sütağan, and Olivita. Bereket Zeytinyağı, particularly in Kuwait's major retail chains Carrefour and Lulu Hypermarket, commands a significant shelf space, with 500 ml extra virgin olive oils retailing for an average of 3,200 KWD. The Tari brand, meanwhile, is particularly popular in Bahrain, particularly in Turkish stores and online. The brand's 750 ml extra virgin product sells for around BHD 3.50, while the organic version commands a higher price. Pınar Gıda boasts strong brand recognition in both Kuwait and Oman and is particularly popular in supermarkets as part of ready-made breakfast sets. Sütağan Olive Oil, with its price-performance ratio, is favored by wholesalers in Bahrain and Oman. Originating in Izmir, this brand is available wholesale in 5-liter canisters and retails for around BHD 1.90 in local markets. Olivita stands out with its OEM production capacity, producing exclusively for local brands, particularly in Bahrain. Among the features that attract consumers in these countries are the glass bottle packaging, Arabic labeling, HALAL certification, and the phrase "extra virgin." Demand peaks during Ramadan, and olive oil sets packaged as gift boxes are highly sought-after. In Kuwait, Turkish olive oil is particularly well-stocked in chains like Lulu Hypermarket, CityMart, and Sultan Center. In Bahrain, stores like Al Hayat, Safa Foods, and Turkish Delight are the main distribution points for Turkish products. In Oman, sales are made through Lulu, Carrefour, and small grocery stores. Sales are also rapidly increasing through e-commerce platforms Noon.om, Amazon.om, Talabat Grocery, and Instashop. In these countries, an average 500ml bottle of extra virgin olive oil costs between 2.80 KWD and 3.60 KWD in Kuwait, 2.20 BHD to 3.00 BHD in Bahrain, and 1.70 OMR to 2.30 OMR in Oman. Wholesale prices are approximately 40 to 50 percent lower. For producers wishing to export, Arabic labeling, cold chain logistics, HALAL certification, and collaboration with local distributors offer significant advantages. Confidence in Turkish olive oil is growing in the Gulf countries, and these three markets appear to have higher volume export potential in the future.