Saudi Arabia OTC Artificial Tears Market to Reach US$ 79.09 Million by 2033 — Growing Eye Health Awareness and Screen Usage Drive Expansion

Saudi Arabia OTC Artificial Tears Market Overview

The Saudi Arabia OTC Artificial Tears Market is expected to reach US$ 79.09 million by 2033, rising from US$ 54.52 million in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 4.22% between 2025 and 2033, according to Renub Research.

The growth trajectory reflects the country’s increasing emphasis on accessible healthcare, growing awareness of eye health, and a strong retail infrastructure that supports non-prescription pharmaceutical sales.

OTC (over-the-counter) artificial tears—non-prescription eye drops—are designed to relieve dryness, burning, and irritation caused by insufficient tear production. By mimicking natural tears, these products are commonly used to treat dry eye syndrome, computer vision syndrome, contact lens irritation, and environmental dryness. With Saudi consumers becoming more proactive about self-care, OTC artificial tears have become an everyday solution, available across pharmacies, supermarkets, and online platforms.

Aging Population and Digital Lifestyle Drive Growth

Saudi Arabia’s aging population and increased screen time are two major contributors to rising cases of dry eye syndrome (DES).

A 2022 national study, the Twaiq Mountain Eye Study, found that 49.5% of Saudi adults experience dry eye symptoms, with 16.4% reporting severe forms of the condition. Environmental factors such as dry desert climate, air conditioning, and dust exposure further exacerbate ocular surface dryness.

Moreover, digital eye strain has become widespread, especially among younger Saudis. A PubMed study revealed that nearly 40% of health science students reported symptoms of dry eyes linked to extended screen use.

As smartphone and computer use continues to rise in both professional and personal life, the demand for convenient, non-prescription remedies like artificial tears is only expected to accelerate.

Growing Consumer Preference for Self-Care and OTC Solutions

A significant trend shaping this market is the shift toward self-care and OTC health management. Increasingly, consumers are choosing non-prescription solutions for mild-to-moderate eye conditions instead of consulting ophthalmologists for every instance of discomfort.

This trend is driven by greater health literacy, time efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. OTC artificial tears provide quick relief without the need for medical consultations, making them highly attractive to busy urban consumers.

E-commerce platforms and modern retail chains such as Nahdi Medical Company, Al-Dawaa Pharmacies, and White Pharmacies are further democratizing access. These outlets stock a wide range of local and international brands, often with competitive pricing and detailed product information online.

This shift reflects a broader transformation in Saudi consumer behavior—moving toward proactive wellness, preventive care, and digital convenience.

Expanding Retail and Online Distribution Channels

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 plan has catalyzed a major transformation in the retail and pharmaceutical landscape. Investment in modern pharmacies, healthcare logistics, and digital commerce is expanding access to consumer health products across both urban and rural regions.

Retail and online pharmacies are increasingly becoming primary purchase points for OTC eye care products. The rise of online pharmacies has been particularly impactful—allowing customers to order from home while exploring product comparisons, customer reviews, and value bundles.

The phygital (physical + digital) integration of pharmacy services has also enhanced consumer engagement. Some chains now offer consultation chat services and AI-based product recommendations, further supporting the OTC artificial tears category.

This retail modernization is essential in bridging healthcare accessibility gaps, ensuring that products for minor yet impactful conditions like dry eyes are within everyone’s reach.

Innovation in Formulations and Packaging

Product innovation is another strong growth enabler. Manufacturers are developing preservative-free, hypoallergenic, and biocompatible formulations suitable for long-term use, especially for those with sensitive eyes.

Packaging advancements—such as single-dose vials, sterile droppers, and spray-based solutions—enhance convenience and portability. These developments not only improve safety and hygiene but also attract repeat consumers seeking effective and easy-to-use solutions.

Additionally, new formulations incorporating electrolytes and lubricating polymers offer better moisture retention and longer-lasting relief, appealing to both chronic dry eye patients and general consumers.

Challenges Facing the Market

Regulatory Hurdles

While Saudi Arabia has a well-structured regulatory framework through the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA), the approval, packaging, and labeling requirements can be complex for manufacturers.

Frequent updates to regulatory standards and strict compliance processes often delay product launches or reformulations. Smaller local players, in particular, face difficulties meeting these standards due to cost and documentation requirements, which can limit market entry and innovation.

High Competition

The Saudi OTC artificial tears market is highly competitive, featuring both global pharmaceutical giants and regional manufacturers. Players such as Alcon, Johnson & Johnson, Bausch Health, and Santen Pharmaceutical dominate the premium segment, while local brands compete aggressively on price.

This saturation forces companies to differentiate through branding, innovation, and partnerships with leading pharmacies. However, price-sensitive consumers often base their choices on affordability rather than formulation quality, putting additional pressure on profit margins.

Market Segmentation Overview

By Product Type:

Solution

Ointment

Emulsion

Gel

Spray Solution

Suspensions

By Application:

Dry Eye Syndrome

Allergies

Infections

UV and Blue Light Protection

Contact Lens Moisture Retention

Others

By Distribution Channel:

Drugstores & Supermarkets

Online Pharmacies

Retail Pharmacies

Others

Key Players and Competitive Landscape

Leading players in the Saudi OTC Artificial Tears Market include:

AbbVie Inc.

Akorn Inc.

Alcon

Bausch Health Companies Inc.

Johnson & Johnson

Nicox S.A.

Novartis AG

Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.

Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

These companies compete through brand reputation, advanced R&D, and strong retail partnerships. Many are also exploring digital marketing campaigns and online product launches to engage directly with consumers in the region.

Partnerships with local distributors and pharmacy chains are key to maintaining shelf presence and visibility, particularly in a market where trust and accessibility drive purchase decisions.

Outlook: Vision 2030 to Elevate Eye Care Accessibility

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 blueprint, emphasizing healthcare modernization, digital transformation, and consumer well-being, will continue to strengthen the OTC artificial tears market.

With rising screen exposure, longer lifespans, and growing awareness of eye hygiene, the market is poised for sustained growth. Government efforts to expand eye health screening programs, along with private-sector innovation, will foster further expansion.

Moreover, online pharmacy integration, AI-driven recommendations, and personalized eye care solutions are likely to define the next phase of market evolution.

Final Thoughts

The Saudi Arabia OTC Artificial Tears Market stands at the intersection of healthcare modernization and consumer empowerment. As eye health becomes a mainstream wellness concern and digital lifestyles continue to shape daily routines, demand for convenient, effective, and safe OTC eye drops will remain robust.

While regulatory compliance and market saturation pose challenges, innovation, accessibility, and consumer education will ensure a steady upward trajectory through 2033.

In a nation reimagining its healthcare future, artificial tears are more than just eye drops—they’re a reflection of Saudi Arabia’s evolving approach to preventive, self-directed wellness.