GCC Soft Contact Lenses Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Application (Corrective, Non-corrective), By Distribution Channel (E-commerce, Eye Clinics), By Usage, By Country, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2030

GCC Soft Contact Lenses Market Trends

The GCC soft contact lenses market size was estimated at USD 335.29 million in 2024 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 6.39% from 2025 to 2030. The industry is driven by the increasing prevalence of vision disorders, rising patient preference for contact lenses over traditional eyewear, and the growing geriatric population base in the region. For instance, according to the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), the elderly population in the UAE, aged 60 years and above, is expected to increase from 0.31 million in 2020 to around 0.99 million in 2030 and further reach 2.06 million in 2050. Furthermore, the increasing product innovation and advancements in technology are expected to fuel the market growth over the forecast period.

The rising number of individuals affected by refractive vision issues, such as myopia, hyperopia, presbyopia, and astigmatism, is significantly driving the growth of the soft contact lens market across GCC nations. Factors like urbanization, lifestyle shifts, and prolonged exposure to digital screens are contributing to a higher incidence of visual impairments throughout the region. In particular, the aging populations of countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are experiencing an uptick in presbyopia, which is fueling demand for multifocal and specialized soft lenses. As awareness improves and access to care services expands in urban areas, the use of soft contact lenses for correcting refractive errors is expected to rise steadily in the GCC.

Average Number of People with Sight Loss Each Year

Source: International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness

Moreover, in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region, both government and private organizations are actively enhancing eye care awareness and providing free eye screenings to address the rising prevalence of vision-related issues. For instance, in May 2024, Magrabi Hospitals and Centers in Dubai organized an awareness campaign on eye diseases, providing free consultations and medical advice on the prevention and reduction of various eye diseases. The event was part of their social responsibility initiatives, visiting companies, universities, and charities in Dubai.

Such initiatives by various organizations significantly increased awareness among patients about eye care, thereby increasing demand for contact lenses. Similarly, free eye screening campaigns organized by government bodies contribute to the identification of eye disorders in the region. For instance, in May 2023, the Dubai Health Authority (DHA) successfully completed its comprehensive vision screening program for school students across Dubai during the academic year 2023-2024. The program screened approximately 26,700 students in both public and private schools.

Market Concentration & Characteristics

The industry exhibits notable concentration, with key players focusing on innovation and product differentiation. Companies such as Johnson & Johnson Vision (Acuvue); Alcon; Bausch + Lomb; and CooperVision hold significant market share, leveraging advanced technologies to improve safety and user experience. Market growth is driven by rising patient preference toward contact lenses, technological advancements, high prevalence of vision disorders, and increasing healthcare expenditure in the region.

The industry in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is witnessing significant innovation driven by the increasing efforts by market players to offer a wide range of products and differentiate from competitors. Additionally, there is a growing trend toward customization, with options such as colored and multifocal lenses customized to individual vision needs, which further drives innovation. For instance, in March 2024, Bella contact lenses launched six new contact lens shades: Breeze and Nay in the Diamond Collection, Marengo in Natural Colors, and Garnet, Cove, and Star in One-Day disposables. Each lens blends fashion and comfort, enhancing brown eyes with natural, vibrant tones for daily or extended wear. 

The GCC soft contact lenses industry is witnessing significant mergers & collaborations, driven by the increasing demand for vision correction and the growing popularity of contact lenses as a convenient alternative to glasses. Moreover, the increasing focus on market players on expanding their product portfolio significantly contributes to M&A activities. For instance, in January 2023, CooperVision acquired SynergEyes, expanding its specialty contact lens offerings, including hybrid lenses, to enhance treatment for keratoconus and irregular cornea. The deal, handled by Carter Ledyard, strengthens CooperVision’s portfolio and reinforces its leadership in vision care and specialty eye health solutions worldwide. 

The regulatory landscape significantly shapes the GCC soft contact lenses industry. Stringent requirements for product registration, quality standards, and import licenses, often overseen by national health authorities such as the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) or the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) are crucial for market entrance. These regulations, aimed at ensuring patient safety and product efficacy, create significant market entry barriers for new or smaller international manufacturers. Compliance necessitates significant investment in testing, documentation, and local representation, impacting operational costs.

The soft contact lenses industry in the GCC faces significant threats from substitutes such as traditional eyeglasses, which may be convenient and often more cost-effective options for many consumers, particularly for intermittent use or specific vision needs. Similarly, advancements and increasing accessibility of refractive surgeries, such as LASIK and PRK, offer a significant threat as these procedures offer a permanent solution to vision correction. 

The regional expansion in the GCC soft contact lenses industry is driven by increasing consumer awareness and a growing demand for vision correction solutions. Market players are intensifying their efforts to enhance their presence across GCC countries by establishing specialized centers and clinics that address the local needs. For instance, in March 2025, Alcon opened its first Alcon Experience Center in Jeddah, marking a major step in enhancing ophthalmic education and surgical innovation in the Middle East and Africa. The center supports Saudi Vision 2030 by offering hands-on training, advanced technology, and partnerships with leading hospitals to elevate regional eye care standards. Such a strategic move allows better access to advanced eye care services and enhances brand loyalty among consumers.

Application Insights

The corrective segment accounted for the largest market share in 2024. This can be attributed to the region’s high and rising prevalence of refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Countries such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE report increasing cases of visual impairment among both youth and working-age populations, attributed to prolonged digital screen exposure and limited outdoor activities. This has resulted in increased demand for soft corrective lenses, especially daily and monthly disposables, which offer both vision correction and comfort in the region’s hot climate.

Average Daily Screen Time in GCC Countries, Ages 16-64

Source: Ooma, Inc.

The non-corrective segment is expected to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period, driven by rising cosmetic and aesthetic consciousness among the region’s youth and young adult population. Countries in the region are witnessing a rise in demand for colored and decorative lenses, fueled by beauty trends and a growing inclination toward enhancing physical appearance. Moreover, non-corrective lenses face variants face fewer compliance issues and are often perceived as fashion accessories, allowing for more casual, repeat purchases and easy access for the customers.

Usage Insights

The disposable segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024. This can be attributed to the high demand from a growing base of young, urban consumers in countries such as the UAE and Saudi Arabia who prioritize convenience, hygiene, and lifestyle compatibility. Moreover, the increasing regulatory preference toward high safety standards in personal care products has further increased the adoption of disposable contact lenses, as they are estimated to reduce infection risks compared to traditional lenses requiring regular cleaning and storage.

The traditional lenses segment is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period. Reusable lenses offer cost efficiency over time, which can be an important consideration in price-sensitive countries in the GCC, where out-of-pocket payments dominate optical purchases. Additionally, a growing base of experienced contact lens users in urban centers of the GCC increasingly prefer reusable lenses for their extended wear time, breathability, and suitability for correcting complex prescriptions such as astigmatism and presbyopia.

Distribution Channel Insights

The retail segment accounted for the largest market share in 2024 and is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR over the forecast period. This can be attributed to a preference toward in-person eye care services and prescription verification at point-of-sale in the region. Moreover, retail stores also enable customization and fittings, a crucial factor in consumer satisfaction, which increases the customer preference toward these facilities. Loyalty programs and in-store promotions additionally drive repeat purchases, further contributing to the dominance of retail stores as a major distribution channel in the market.

The E-commerce segment is expected to witness significant growth over the forecast period due to the region's increasing digital penetration, coupled with rising demand for cosmetic and daily disposable lenses among customers. Moreover, the increasing efforts by distributors of contact lenses to increase their digital presence is driving the segment growth. For instance, in Bahrain, online optical retailers such as Hassan's have developed a significant digital presence, providing a wide variety of contact lenses. This selection includes daily disposables, toric lenses designed for astigmatism, and colored lenses from well-known brands such as Johnson & Johnson, Bausch & Lomb, and Bella. Similarly, in Qatar, platforms such as Eyenk.com have become significant online hubs for purchasing contact lenses. They offer both daily and monthly disposable options, colored lenses, and specialized products.

Country Insights

Saudi Arabia Soft Contact Lenses Market Trends

Saudi Arabia soft contact lenses market is driven by rising demand among the country’s younger population, rising awareness about eye care, availability of advanced products, and technological advancements. Innovative offerings such as colored contact lenses and smart lenses equipped with integrated sensors are gaining popularity among consumers. Similarly, the rising incidence of ocular conditions such as diabetic retinopathy and dry eye syndrome, driven by lifestyle habits such as prolonged screen exposure, is increasing awareness and demand for vision care, further fueling the market growth.

UAE Soft Contact Lenses Market Trends

The soft contact lenses market in the UAE is driven by a combination of technological advancements, regional healthcare initiatives, and evolving consumer preferences. The UAE is witnessing significant development in the healthcare infrastructure, leading to increased adoption of advanced lenses. Optical retailers and eye clinics across the UAE, such as Al Jaber Optical and Magrabi Optical, offer an extensive selection of daily, monthly, and cosmetic lenses from top brands including Acuvue, Bausch + Lomb, and CooperVision. These outlets typically integrate physical store services with digital platforms, enabling customers to conveniently schedule eye exams and lens fittings online.

Key GCC Soft Contact Lenses Companies Insights

Key players operating in the GCC soft contact lenses market are undertaking various initiatives to strengthen their presence and increase the reach of their products and services. Strategies such as expansion activities and partnerships are key in propelling the market growth.

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, Alcon partnered with the Saudi Society of Optometry to raise vision correction awareness and train local talent, aligning with national healthcare goals and fostering innovation in the Kingdom’s eye care sector.

• In March 2024, Anesthesia Colored Lenses launched four new colored contact lenses Noor, Luna, Nova, and Sun, each inspired by celestial and natural elements. Known for style and comfort, these lenses enhance brown eyes with unique tones.

• In May 2023, EssilorLuxottica and Chalhoub Group signed a joint venture to expand direct eyewear retail in GCC. The partnership aimed to launch mono- and multi-brand stores for Ray-Ban, Persol, and others, blending EssilorLuxottica’s expertise with Chalhoub’s retail strength to elevate customer service and premium eyewear experiences in the region. 

GCC Soft Contact Lenses Market Report Scope

GCC Soft Contact Lenses Market Report Segmentation

This report forecasts revenue growth at the regional and country levels and provides an analysis of the latest industry trends and opportunities in each of the sub-segments from 2018 to 2030. For this study, Grand View Research has segmented the GCC soft contact lenses market report on the basis of application, distribution channel, usage, and region:

• Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Corrective (Prescription)

  • Non-Corrective (Cosmetic/Plano)

• Distribution Channel Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • E-commerce

  • Eye Clinics

  • Retail

• Usage Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Disposable

  • Traditional (Reusable) lenses

• Country Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2018 - 2030)

  • Saudi Arabia

  • UAE

  • Oman

  • Bahrain

  • Qatar

  • Kuwait