OTC Pharmaceuticals - United Arab Emirates

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in the United Arab Emirates is projected to generate a revenue of US$651.60m in 2024.
With an expected annual growth rate of 4.58% (CAGR 2024-2029), the market shows promising potential.
Among the various markets, the largest one is Other OTC Pharmaceuticals, which is estimated to reach a market volume of US$177.80m in 2024.
When considering global comparisons, the United States leads the way in terms of revenue generation, with a staggering US$41.24bn in 2024.
However, when looking at revenue per capita, in the United Arab Emirates performs well, with per person revenues reaching US$67.94 in 2024.
The increasing prominence of online sales is also evident in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market.
By 2024, approximately 22.85% of the total revenue is expected to be generated through online channels.
This highlights the growing influence of e-commerce in the industry.
The United Arab Emirates has seen a rise in demand for OTC Pharmaceuticals due to the increasing focus on self-medication and the availability of a wide range of over-the-counter products.

Definition:
The Over-the-Counter Pharmaceuticals market includes non-prescription medications, treatments, and healthcare products that are available directly to consumers without a prescription from a licensed healthcare professional. It includes both products which are exclusively sold in pharmacies and products which can be purchased elsewhere such as supermarkets, and online retailers. Sales by hospitals are not included.

Structure:
The market is subdivided into Analgesics, Cold and Cough Remedies, Digestives and Intestinal Remedies, Skin Treatment, Vitamins and Minerals, Hand Sanitizer, Eye care, Sleep aids, Wound care, and Other OTC Pharmaceuticals. The Analgesics market covers non-prescription pain-relief medications which help to relief aches, pains and fevers. Cold & Cough market covers non-prescription remedies aimed at relieving nasal congestion, coughing, sore throat, and related cold discomforts. The Digestives and Intestinal Remedies market encompasses non-prescription products designed to alleviate symptoms related to digestive discomfort and intestinal issues. The Skin Treatment market includes non-prescription medications formulated to address various dermatological concerns such as acne, eczema and dryness. The Vitamins and Minerals market comprises non-prescription dietary supplements containing essential nutrients such as vitamins and minerals. The Hand sanitizer market covers sanitizing products which are applied on hands to effectively reduce the presence of bacteria and viruses. The Eye Care market covers non-prescription products to address common eye-related discomforts such as dryness, irritation or redness. The Sleep Aids market covers non-prescription products designed to promote relaxation, alleviate insomnia, and improve sleep quality. The Wound Care market includes non-prescription products designed to facilitate wound healing and prevent infection.

Additional information:
OTC Pharmaceuticals comprises revenues, average revenue per capita. Sales channels show online and offline revenue. Revenues include VAT. The market only displays B2C revenues, hence B2B and B2G revenues are not included.
For more information on the data displayed, use the info button next to the boxes.

Natural and synthetic agents
Analgesics (e.g. Asprin, Paracetamol)
Cough & Cold remedies (e.g. Vicks VapoRub)
Vitamins and Minerals
Skin treatment products

Prescription medicines
Homeopathic remedies

The OTC Pharmaceuticals market in United Arab Emirates is experiencing steady growth due to a combination of factors.

Customer preferences: Customers in the United Arab Emirates have shown a growing preference for over-the-counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals. This can be attributed to several factors, including the convenience of purchasing medications without a prescription, the increasing awareness and acceptance of self-medication, and the availability of a wide range of OTC products in pharmacies and retail outlets. Additionally, customers in the United Arab Emirates are becoming more health-conscious and are taking proactive measures to manage their health, leading to an increased demand for OTC pharmaceuticals.

Trends in the market: One of the key trends in the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in the United Arab Emirates is the growing demand for vitamins and dietary supplements. As consumers become more health-conscious, they are seeking products that can support their overall well-being. Vitamins and dietary supplements are seen as a way to fill nutritional gaps and promote good health. This trend is further fueled by the rising prevalence of chronic diseases and the aging population, who are increasingly turning to OTC pharmaceuticals to manage their health conditions.Another trend in the market is the increasing popularity of herbal and natural remedies. Customers in the United Arab Emirates are showing a preference for products that are perceived to be more natural and have fewer side effects. This has led to a surge in demand for herbal and natural OTC pharmaceuticals, such as herbal supplements, traditional medicines, and homeopathic remedies.

Local special circumstances: The United Arab Emirates has a rapidly growing population, which is driving the demand for healthcare products, including OTC pharmaceuticals. The country has also witnessed an increase in disposable income, allowing consumers to spend more on healthcare and wellness products. Additionally, the government of the United Arab Emirates has been actively promoting the use of OTC pharmaceuticals as a means to reduce the burden on the healthcare system and improve access to medications.

Underlying macroeconomic factors: The United Arab Emirates has a strong economy, which has been a key driver of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market. The country has a high per capita income and a growing middle class, which has led to increased consumer spending on healthcare products. Furthermore, the government has implemented favorable policies to attract foreign investments and encourage the growth of the pharmaceutical industry. These factors, combined with a favorable regulatory environment, have created a conducive market for OTC pharmaceuticals in the United Arab Emirates.In conclusion, the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in the United Arab Emirates is experiencing growth due to customer preferences for convenience and self-medication, as well as the increasing demand for vitamins, dietary supplements, and herbal remedies. The local special circumstances, such as a growing population and rising disposable income, further contribute to the market's development. The underlying macroeconomic factors, including a strong economy and favorable government policies, also play a significant role in driving the growth of the OTC Pharmaceuticals market in the United Arab Emirates.

Data coverage:

Data encompasses B2C spend. Figures are based on the OTC Pharmaceuticals market values, representing revenues generated by both product sales which take place exclusively in pharmacies and products which can be purchased elsewhere. Sales by hospitals are not included.

Modeling approach / Market size:

Market sizes are determined by a combined top-down and bottom-up approach, based on a specific rationale for each market market. As a basis for evaluating markets, we use data from national statistical offices, international institutions, trade associations, and self-medication associations. Next, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific associations, such as consumer healthcare spending, out-of-pocket healthcare expenditure, health system accessibilities, and GDP. This data helps us estimate the market size for each country individually.

Forecasts:

In our forecasts, we apply diverse forecasting techniques. The selection of forecasting techniques is based on the behavior of the particular market. For example, forecasts are based on historical developments, current trends, and key market indicators, using advanced statistical methods.

Additional notes:

Data is modeled in US$ using current exchange rates. The market is updated twice per year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is considered at a country-specific level. Whereas this market covers only OTC drugs, the Statista Pharmaceuticals market covers both OTC and prescription drugs.

This report presents a comprehensive analysis and additional information on the Health market, in a PDF format.

The pharmaceutical industry is responsible for the research, development, production, and distribution of medications. The market has experienced significant growth during the past two decades, and pharma revenues worldwide totaled 1.48 trillion U.S. dollars in 2022.