Bahraini youth are increasingly turning to quick-service dining options, both local and international, as reported by Mordor Intelligence. This sector is expected to experience a 5.98% compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2017 to 2029, showing a preference for fast and convenient dining among younger consumers. QSRs are leading Bahrain’s food service industry, with over a hundred American franchises now available in the kingdom. The rise of cloud kitchens, with a projected 4.91% CAGR, is driven by increased internet access and demand for online food delivery.
Advancements in point-of-sale (POS) systems and kitchen display systems (KDS) are helping streamline operations and reduce delays in the industry. The café and beverage sector is thriving, with cafés and juice bars making up a significant portion of outlets in Bahrain. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for ready-to-eat meals, with leading chains like Starbucks and Costa Coffee taking advantage of this trend. The average number of orders from cafés in Bahrain has risen by 11.24% from 2019 to 2022, indicating a surge in coffee consumption.
Upscale cafés have responded by expanding their menus to include specialty drinks and international pastries, increasing the average order value. Cloud kitchens are offering competitively priced dishes like harees and kebabs to cater to evolving consumer preferences. Quick-service restaurants continue to be a favourite among Bahraini consumers for their convenience and value. Recent trends suggest a growing interest in mid-range quick-service options that provide a diverse range of dining experiences at reasonable prices.
