Hey beauty lovers! move over, Sephora shelves in LA. The next frontier for beauty is brewing in Riyadh, Dubai, and across the Middle East. Let’s break it down 👇
🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia – The Mega Trendsetter
Saudi isn’t just oil and luxury malls. it’s now a halal beauty powerhouse.
*By 2033, the halal cosmetics market here is projected to hit $11.16B (~15 trillion KRW), with 13.5% annual growth one of the fastest single-market growth rates in global beauty.
*High-income, young demographics are fueling premium skincare and makeup demand.
*Products popular in Riyadh quickly ripple across the entire Middle East.
📈 Youth Power – Gen Z Drives Premium Growth
*In Saudi and the wider GCC, over 60% of the population is under 30.
*Gen Z are digital natives, shopping via apps and TikTok shops and they’re pushing premium, ethical consumption.
*Low unemployment among women and rising disposable income = women are becoming a core premium beauty audience.
🕌 The Halal Standard – What Matters in Beauty
To succeed, brands must align with Shariah law and ethical rules
🚫 No alcohol (esp. ethanol in perfumes/cosmetics)
🚫 No pork derivatives (collagen, gelatin, stearic acid, etc.)
🚫 No non-halal slaughter animal ingredients
🚫 No blood, blood by-products, or insect-derived pigments (e.g., carmine)
Formula key : Halal cosmetics = exclude haram ingredients + respect Shariah guidelines.
🌟 Local Innovator – Asteri Beauty
*Founded in Saudi, 2023 by female entrepreneur Sara Al-Rashed.
*Built for desert life: its “Desert-Proof” formulas resist heat, sand, and humidity.
*Expanding premium positioning with offline stores in Riyadh and Jeddah.
*Proof that homegrown halal brands can play at global luxury level.
🛍️ Platforms Winning Gen Z – NiceOne & Noon
*NiceOne : the beauty-specialist e-commerce app dominating Saudi. UX/UI is built for discovery, and K-beauty has a whole section gaining traction.
*Noon : the “Amazon of the Middle East,” with a strong UAE + Saudi logistics network. Beauty category share is expanding fast.
*Together, these platforms are shaping how Z-gen shoppers buy and where K-beauty can win shelf space online.
🌐 Influencer Power – Local Voices Matter
*Influencers like Dania Mohamed (@thedivadee) are testing and sharing K-beauty, introducing it to Middle Eastern followers who crave novelty but also halal alignment.
*Their word of mouth is as powerful as celebrity shoutouts in the West.
📊 The Big Picture : Halal Beauty as K-Beauty’s Next Stage
*Global halal beauty is on track for double-digit CAGR (11–13%) to 2033.
*Saudi is the epicenter: trends starting here spread across the GCC and MENA.
*Platforms like NiceOne and Noon, plus local innovators like Asteri Beauty, are setting the rules of the game.
*For K-beauty, halal alignment isn’t optional it’s the key to tapping one of the fastest-growing, premium-hungry markets on the planet.
116Comments-
여성콤비네이션1 mo. agoThe Saudi numbers are wild $11B market by 2033?? That’s a serious shift in the beauty landscape.
-
여성마른1 mo. agoI’ve seen Noon in Dubai! Their beauty section keeps growing and K-beauty really has its own spotlight there.
-
여성예민한1 mo. agoNot gonna lie, sometimes “halal” feels like just another marketing buzzword brands use to cash in
-
남성기름진1 mo. agoIsn’t it risky for K beauty? A lot of Korean products still use alcohol or animal derived ingredients.
여성정상1 mo. agoI think it’s possible, brands reformulate all the time for EU or FDA standards, so why not halal?
남성콤비네이션1 mo. ago@여성/정상 But halal bans carmine, gelatin, even ethanol. That’s way stricter than “clean beauty"
여성정상1 mo. ago@남성/콤비네이션 True, but K-beauty’s strength is innovation. They can swap ingredients and still make good textures
여성Dry1 mo. ago@여성/정상 I just don’t see Amorepacific or LG changing formulas just for one region. Too costly
여성Oily1 mo. ago@여성/Dry One region? Saudi is projected at $11B in 10 years. That’s not small change
MaleOily1 mo. ago@여성/Dry Exactly, and once you unlock halal compliance, you can sell across GCC, MENA, even parts of Asia
MaleSensitive1 mo. agoConsumers there would rather have halal approved alternatives than not have the product at all.
-
MaleSensitive1 mo. agoInfluencers like Dania Mohamed seem way more trusted than Western celebs. Local voices matter
-
FemaleCombination18 days agoThe 13.5?GR to 2033 is huge this isn’t a micro-trend; it’s infrastructure.
-
FemaleSensitive18 days agoHalal standards are clearer than most “clean” seals—exclude lists make compliance binary.
-
FemaleCombination18 days agoNoon’s local logistics wins checkouts
FemaleCombination18 days agofast, COD options matter more than hype
-
FemaleDry18 days agoIf K-beauty wants in, fix alcohol content and carmine issues before launch—don’t test on customers.
-
FemaleSensitive18 days agoLabeling should state “no ethanol” not just “no alcohol”—precision prevents confusion.
FemaleNormal18 days agoThat’s super important
-
FemaleSensitive18 days agoK-beauty’s base is strong; halal-compliant color is the true challenge.
-
FemaleDry18 days agoPlease release SPF tests in Gulf conditions 42°C/UV index realities differ from lab benches.
-
FemaleDry18 days agoSwapping ethanol isn’t trivial texture and preservation shift.
FemaleSensitive18 days agoTrue. micro tests + alternative solvents needed.
FemaleNormal18 days agoConsumers will accept feel changes if claims are honest.
FemaleOily18 days agoLabel “reformulated for halal” with Q&A.
FemaleDry18 days agoAdd mini sizes for trial—low risk, high insight.
-
FemaleSensitive18 days agoWho certifies, local councils or global bodies?
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoA 13.5 percent CAGR to 2033 sounds like real infrastructure, not a fad.
-
FemaleOily15 days agoDesert proof is not a slogan here, textures must resist melt.
-
FemaleCombination15 days agoClear exclude lists make halal easier to trust than vague clean labels.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoLocal logistics and COD options push checkouts, speed beats hype.
-
FemaleSensitive15 days agoIf brands want in, address ethanol and carmine up front.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoLabel no ethanol explicitly, clarity prevents confusion at shelf.
-
FemaleDry15 days agoHomegrown luxury can lead if performance is strong, proud to see it.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoBase skincare travels well, color needs careful pigment choices.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoWomen’s income is rising, build price ladders that respect that.
-
FemaleOily15 days agoPlease publish SPF wear tests in Gulf heat and sun.
-
FemaleSensitive15 days agoTrust starts in the INCI, influencers come after.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoTikTok helps discovery, official stores prevent counterfeits.
-
FemaleCombination15 days agoOud and amber lean popular here, scent profiles deserve attention.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoEthical does not mean boring, great textures still possible.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoTrain retail staff on halal basics, counter myths ruin launches.
-
FemaleOily15 days agoBundle tinted SPF with heat proof setting mists, longevity wins.
-
FemaleNormal15 days agoPlease license visuals properly, hire local creatives with fair pay.
-
FemaleDry15 days agoA simple halal roadmap with dates would help planning.
-
FemaleNormal11 days agoLove the momentum, but I’m worried about counterfeits. Official stores only, please.
-
MaleSensitive11 days agoInfluencers help, but I trust INCI lists more than any reel. Please share full lists.
-
MaleNormal11 days agoIf testers are shared, please sanitise visibly. Hygiene sells.
-
FemaleNormal11 days agoLocal creatives deserve proper credit. Pay them, then I’ll buy.
-
MaleNormal11 days agoI’m hyped, but please stop greenwashing with vague “clean” badges. Full stop.
-
FemaleNormal10 days agoWomen’s incomes are rising. Build fair loyalty perks, not just flash sales.
-
MaleNormal10 days agoAny data on melasma improvement with TXA serums in this climate?
-
FemaleNormal10 days agoThis feels like the next big stage. Ready to support local and K beauty both.
-
MaleNormal10 days agoPlease train BA staff on halal standards. Misinformation spreads fast.
-
MaleOily10 days agoPlease publish UVA PF, not just SPF. We’re in strong sun daily.
-
MaleCombination9 days agoNoon’s returns are smooth. That builds trust more than ads.
-
FemaleNormal9 days agoCarmine free reds are tough. Show swatch comparisons without filters, cheers.
-
FemaleSensitive9 days agoWhere can I find iron oxide tinted SPF that doesn’t go grey on me?
-
MaleSensitive8 days agoHold brands to their claims. Be transparent or I’m out, full stop.
-
FemaleSensitive8 days agoNo ethanol means even denat alcohol, right? Clarity on labels helps a ton.
-
MaleNormal8 days agoPlease add Arabic INCI sheets at shelf, not just tiny English print.
-
MaleNormal7 days agoHope pricing doesn’t punish locals while tourists get promos. Be fair.
-
MaleNormal7 days agoRelieved to see “no blood” and “no insect pigments” called out directly.
-
FemaleNormal7 days agoI love seeing Asteri rise. Local luxury with purpose feels right, proper proud.
-
FemaleNormal7 days agoGreat write up. I want refill systems next, waste is not a flex.
-
MaleCombination7 days agoHeat stable emulsions save me, and silicones are fine if clearly labelled.
-
FemaleDry7 days agoEthical and exciting can coexist. I want buttery textures without compromise.
-
FemaleSensitive6 days agoMy skin hates alcohol. Glad the rules make it clear, less irritation already.
-
FemaleNormal6 days agoNiceOne’s UI is addictive. The discovery flow makes me try new brands too much.
-
MaleNormal6 days agoVegan does not automatically equal halal. Ingredient sourcing still counts, right?
-
FemaleNormal6 days agoGen Z here shops on live streams. Are there moderation rules for claims?
-
FemaleOily6 days agoI’m excited and impatient. Announce a halal verified cushion already, please.
-
MaleNormal5 days agoThis is big, but packaging must hold up in hot cars. Please test adhesives.
-
MaleNormal5 days agoMassive CAGR here, but which subcategories lead, skincare or colour?
-
FemaleNormal5 days agoAsteri stores in Riyadh look premium. Pricing per ml still matters to me, be fair.
-
FemaleCombination3 days agoWhere do tinted mineral SPFs sit shade wise? Olive and deep tones need attention.
-
MaleNormal3 days agoRetailers, add halal filters on sites. Search is painful now.
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoK beauty can align well here if formulas avoid pork derived stearic acid and gelatin.
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoNiceOne’s K beauty section keeps growing. Any plans for shade finders soon?
-
FemaleOily3 days agoTransparency wins.
-
FemaleSensitive3 days agoIngredient transparency is everything here love this.
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoCould you list cert bodies and timelines? wanna learn.
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoHalal beauty rising is huge clear certs , ingredient transparency trust.
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoI got burned by fake listings once. Now I only buy from brand stores.
-
FemaleCombination3 days agoAny standout case studies from the region?
-
MaleNormal3 days agoQuestion, are alcohol free fragrances performing well, or do they fade too fast?
-
FemaleNormal3 days agoAny standout case studies yet?
-
MaleSensitive3 days agoIf a product uses carmine, just say it. I’d rather pass than be misled.
-
FemaleOily3 days agoFragrance preferences by market would help a ton.
-
FemaleNormal2 days agoAvoid carmine and alcohol for halal friendly lines, clarity first on the box.
-
FemaleSensitive2 days agoPlease list cert bodies and typical timelines.
-
MaleOily2 days ago“Desert proof” claims are bold. Share sweat and heat endurance protocols at 42 °C.
-
MaleNormal2 days agoNoon COD is clutch for gifts. Fast delivery saved me last Eid.
-
FemaleCombination2 days agoHalal + clean packaging design is such a vibe.
-
FemaleOily2 days agoHalal beauty rising makes me so happy clear certs trust 💚
-
MaleNormal2 days agoNoon delivery is fast, I would like sample packs for new K beauty lines.
-
FemaleCombination2 days agoHalal + ingredient transparency = instant trust.
-
FemaleNormal2 days agoFragrance preferences by market would be helpful.
-
FemaleNormal1 day agoYoung shoppers here learn by short video, brands should add Arabic captions.
-
FemaleDry1 day agoRefill kiosks in malls would match the sustainability message well.
-
FemaleSensitive1 day agoFragrance load by market would be a great add super actionable.
-
FemaleNormal1 day agoHalal standards require clear sourcing, I want suppliers listed so trust can grow.
-
MaleNormal1 day agoLocal payment options reduce cart drop, Cash on Delivery still matters for first buys.
-
MaleCombination1 day agoTravel minis let people try without regret, bundle cleanser toner SPF.
-
FemaleCombination22 hr. agoDesert proof claims should include humidity swings at night, not only daytime heat.
-
FemaleSensitive20 hr. agoNiceOne makes discovery simple, filters for fragrance free and SPF would help more.
-
FemaleOily20 hr. agoList cert bodies + timelines pls!
-
FemaleSensitive17 hr. agoExcited to see more options hit mainstream shelves.
-
MaleNormal16 hr. agoCash on Delivery and local wallets lower cart drop, smart for first orders.
-
FemaleSensitive14 hr. agoCert bodies + timelines!?
-
FemaleOily13 hr. agoFragrance prefs by market would help brands.
-
FemaleOily9 hr. agoTinted SPF must use iron oxides that serve deeper tones, please show shade grids.
-
MaleNormal9 hr. agoPremium positioning makes sense, minis help entry without regret.
-
FemaleNormal8 hr. agoRetail staff training on halal checks would cut confusion, simple checklists help.
-
MaleNormal4 hr. agoDesert proof claims should include sweat and sand tests at forty two Celsius.
-
FemaleNormal3 hr. agoHalal alignment needs supplier transparency and clear audits, that is how trust grows.