UAE Contact Lenses Market Analysis

UAE Contact Lenses Market Executive Summary

UAE Contact Lenses Market was valued at $85.70 Mn in 2023 and is predicted to grow at a CAGR of 9.9% from 2023 to 2030, to $165.95 Mn by 2030. 

Contact lenses are versatile medical devices placed directly on the eye, serving both functional and cosmetic purposes. They come in several types: soft lenses, made of flexible plastic allowing oxygen to the cornea; rigid gas permeable lenses for sharper vision; hybrid lenses combining features of both; and scleral lenses covering the cornea and sclera, useful for irregular corneas. They correct refractive errors like myopia and hyperopia and cater to cosmetic needs with colored variants. Fitting by an optometrist or ophthalmologist ensures proper selection based on individual eye health and lifestyle. Regular cleaning and adherence to wearing schedules are crucial for preventing infections and maintaining eye health. Risks include infections, dry eyes, and corneal abrasions if not used correctly. Regulated as medical devices, advancements like silicone hydrogel materials and UV-blocking capabilities enhance safety and comfort, making contact lenses a popular choice for vision correction and aesthetic enhancement globally.

In the UAE, diabetic retinopathy affects 19% of diabetic patients, with 13.8% having background retinopathy and 3.8% having proliferative retinopathy. The high prevalence of diabetes and other non-communicable diseases, which are major risk factors for eye conditions such as cataracts, glaucoma, and age-related macular degeneration, further contribute to the country's eye health burden. A population-based survey in Dubai found that among Emiratis, the prevalence of mild, moderate, and severe visual impairment was 4.7%, 1.8%, and 0%, respectively.

The market therefore is driven by significant factors like rising disposable income, high prevalence of myopia, and focus on appearance and active lifestyles. However, limited public insurance coverage, improper care and hygiene practices, and competition from refractive surgery restrict the growth and potential of the market.

Prominent players in this field are Bausch and Lomb, which emphasizes daily disposable contact lenses enhanced with comfort technologies and supports sustainability initiatives. On the other hand, CooperVision focuses on innovation through advanced materials, specialized solutions for myopia management, and convenient subscription services for contact lenses. Other contributors include Alcon Vision LLC, and Essilor International S.A. among others.

Market Dynamics

Market Growth Drivers

Rising Disposable Income: The UAE boasts a strong economy with a growing population enjoying increasing disposable income. The World Bank estimates the UAE's GDP per capita at $70,430 in 2023. This allows people to spend more on discretionary items like contact lenses.

High Prevalence of Myopia: Myopia is a prevalent concern in the UAE. A study published in the International Journal of Ophthalmology suggests a prevalence of myopia of around 33.3% among young adults in the UAE. This translates to a large demand for vision correction solutions.

Focus on Appearance and Active Lifestyles: There's a growing trend in the UAE, particularly among younger demographics, of prioritizing aesthetics and embracing active lifestyles. Coloured contact lenses and lenses designed for sports and activities offer solutions that appeal to these preferences.

Technological Advancements: The introduction of new materials and technologies like silicone hydrogel and daily disposable lenses has reached the UAE market. This offers improved comfort, wearability, and user experience, attracting more people to choose contact lenses.

Market Restraints

Limited Public Insurance Coverage: Public health insurance in the UAE generally does not cover contact lenses. This can be a barrier for some consumers, particularly those who rely on public health insurance for their vision care needs.

Improper Care and Hygiene Practices: Similar to other regions, there might be a gap in knowledge regarding proper contact lens hygiene and care. This could lead to complications and reduced wear time, discouraging potential users.

Competition from Refractive Surgery: Advancements in laser vision correction procedures like LASIK are becoming increasingly accessible in the UAE. While not suitable for everyone, these options present some competition for the contact lens market, particularly for specific demographics.

Regulatory Landscape and Reimbursement Scenario

The contact lens market in the UAE is regulated by the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) through its Department of Medical Supplies (DMS). All contact lenses, whether corrective or cosmetic, must be registered with MoHAP, requiring submission of technical documentation and compliance with safety and performance standards. Lenses are classified based on risk, with most falling under Class II (medium-risk) and requiring detailed registration, while Class III (high-risk) lenses, used for specific eye diseases, have stricter requirements. Manufacturers and distributors must also implement a Quality Management System (QMS) adhering to international standards (e.g., ISO 13485) to ensure consistent quality and patient safety, and they must conduct post-market surveillance to monitor product performance and report adverse events to MoHAP.

In terms of reimbursement, contact lenses are generally not covered by public health insurance in the UAE. Exceptions may occur for medically necessary lenses prescribed by an ophthalmologist for specific conditions, which might receive partial coverage depending on the health insurance plan. Some private health insurance plans may offer partial or full coverage for contact lenses, with coverage extent and eligibility varying significantly across different plans.

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Here are some of the major key players in the UAE Contact Lenses Market

• Abbott Medical Optics, Inc.
• Alcon Vision LLC
• Bausch & Lomb, Incorporated
• ZEISS International
• Contamac
• CooperVision, Inc.
• Essilor International S.A.
• Hoya Corporation
• Medennium
• Seed Co., Ltd.