Key Market Indicators
In 2023, Emirati exports of prescription glasses reached approximately $45,000, marking a 17.6% decline from the $55,000 recorded in 2022. Despite the drop, the country has seen a steady increase in its supply over the years, with an annual growth rate of 7.4% since 2012. This year, the United Arab Emirates ranked 13th globally in prescription glasses exports, with South Africa narrowly surpassing it at the same value of around $45,000. Leading the global market, China, France, and Malaysia held the second, third, and fourth positions, respectively. On the import side, the UAE's prescription glasses imports are projected to decrease significantly. By 2028, imports are expected to drop to approximately $8,000, down from $29,000 in 2023, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) decline of 19.9%. Since 2012, the demand for prescription glasses in the Emirates has shown a slight annual increase of 0.1%.
