GCC Rigid Endoscopes Market Outlook (2021-2031)

The GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) rigid endoscopes market is projected to grow significantly, reaching an estimated US$ 120.6 million by 2031, up from US$ 94.8 million in 2024. This growth represents a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.5% from 2025 to 2031.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The rigid endoscopes market in the GCC is experiencing steady development, primarily driven by an increase in surgical demand, modernization of healthcare systems, and a regional shift towards minimally invasive procedures. The GCC comprises six countries: Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman, all of which have high per capita healthcare spending and substantial investments in medical infrastructure.

Rigid endoscopes are becoming increasingly prevalent in various medical fields, including orthopedics, gynecology, and ENT (ear, nose, and throat) practices. Hospitals are increasingly investing in precision instruments that enhance surgical outcomes and reduce recovery times. Private healthcare organizations are at the forefront of adopting rigid endoscopes, while public hospitals are gradually upgrading their equipment in line with national health strategies. Saudi Arabia is leading the way, leveraging its Vision 2030 initiative to innovate surgical practices and attract global MedTech partnerships. The region's emphasis on digital health, medical education, and clinical excellence is fostering an environment conducive to endoscopic innovation. As outpatient surgery and personalized medicine gain traction, the rigid endoscopy market is expected to expand further in the GCC.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The rigid endoscopes market can be segmented based on product type, usability, application, and end user.

Product Type: The market is divided into several categories, including laparoscopes, arthroscopes, uroscopes, gynecology endoscopes, ENT endoscopes, bronchoscopes, neuroendoscopes, and others. In 2024, the laparoscopes segment was the market leader.
Usability: The market is also segmented into reusable and disposable endoscopes, with reusable endoscopes dominating in 2024.
Application: The applications of rigid endoscopes are categorized into diagnostic and therapeutic uses, with the diagnostic segment holding the largest share in 2024.
End User: The end users of rigid endoscopes include hospitals, specialty clinics, ambulatory surgical centers, and diagnostic centers, with hospitals accounting for the largest market share in 2024.

Market Outlook

Rigid endoscopes are gaining popularity across the GCC due to their reliability and ability to produce high-quality images, making them suitable for reuse. In medical specialties such as orthopedics, urology, and ENT, where clear visibility and durable tools are essential, rigid endoscopes play a crucial role in ensuring precise surgical procedures.

A significant factor contributing to market growth is the increasing investment in building new hospitals and upgrading medical instruments throughout the region. Additionally, GCC countries are collaborating with global medical technology companies to manufacture products locally and enhance training, thereby making these tools more accessible and user-friendly.

There is also a growing trend towards the use of reusable endoscopes that can be sterilized, which aids in infection control and aligns with environmental sustainability goals. Many medical universities in the region are offering endoscopic training programs as part of their surgical education, which has helped to cultivate a skilled workforce. With the integration of digital tools and artificial intelligence in diagnostics, rigid endoscopy is evolving into a platform for precise surgical interventions, improving patient outcomes and operational efficiency in healthcare facilities across the region.

Country Insights

The GCC rigid endoscopes market can be analyzed by country, with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman being the key players. Saudi Arabia holds the largest market share as of 2024, driven by the educational healthcare initiatives outlined in Vision 2030 and significant investments in surgical modernization. The country is developing new medical cities and upgrading hospitals with advanced rigid endoscopic technologies, particularly in major cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

Public hospitals in Saudi Arabia are increasingly familiar with using rigid endoscopes for high-volume orthopedic procedures, supported by government funding and centralized purchasing. Strong private healthcare institutions are also innovating by incorporating robotic-assisted surgical systems and AI into their imaging and tools. Furthermore, medical universities and research centers are actively engaged in clinical trials and device evaluations, contributing to a well-educated surgical workforce that positions Saudi Arabia as a leader in the GCC rigid endoscopes market.

Company Profiles

Key players in the GCC rigid endoscopes market include Olympus Corporation, Fujifilm Holdings Corporation, Boston Scientific, Karl Storz SE & Co. KG, Stryker Corporation, B. Braun SE, HOYA Corporation, Ambu A/S, Johnson & Johnson, and Medtronic. These companies employ strategies such as expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness and deliver innovative products to their customers. Show more