GCC Ultrasound Market Outlook (2021-2031)

The ultrasound market in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region is poised for significant growth, with projections indicating it will reach approximately US$ 62.5 million by 2031, up from US$ 54.8 million in 2024. This growth trajectory reflects a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 1.9% from 2025 to 2031.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The GCC ultrasound market is currently experiencing a surge in demand, driven by several key factors including increased healthcare investments, a rising prevalence of chronic diseases, and a growing focus on early diagnosis and preventive healthcare. Among the GCC countries, Saudi Arabia emerges as the leading market, commanding the largest share of regional demand. This growth is significantly supported by the nation’s Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to transform the healthcare landscape by enhancing service efficiency and accessibility.

The market is witnessing advancements in imaging technologies, such as 3D/4D ultrasound and portable ultrasound systems, which are becoming increasingly prevalent in various medical fields including cardiology, obstetrics, and general imaging. Additionally, the GCC is evolving its outpatient and ambulatory care systems, with ultrasound technology being favored for its non-invasive, rapid, and versatile nature. The rise of medical tourism and the availability of quality private healthcare services are further propelling the demand for high-quality imaging solutions. With ongoing infrastructure improvements, digital health integration, and a diversification of clinical applications, the GCC ultrasound market presents a promising and dynamic opportunity for ultrasound technology providers.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The ultrasound market can be segmented based on product type, portability, application, and end user.

Product Type: The market is divided into diagnostic ultrasound systems and therapeutic ultrasound systems, with diagnostic systems dominating the market in 2024.
Portability: Ultrasound devices are categorized into portable/trolley-based devices and handheld devices, where portable/trolley-based systems held the largest market share in 2024.
Application: The market is segmented into various applications including general imaging, cardiology, oncology, gynecology, orthopedics, urology, gastroenterology, and others, with general imaging being the leading segment in 2024.
End User: The end-user segmentation includes hospitals, specialty clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, ambulatory surgical centers, and others, with hospitals accounting for the largest share in 2024.

Market Outlook

The GCC ultrasound market is undergoing a significant shift from traditional hospital-centric imaging systems to more decentralized and patient-centric models. This transition is bolstered by government healthcare reforms, increased investments in diagnostic technologies, and the growing presence of private clinics and specialized medical centers. Collectively, these factors are contributing to a more accessible and efficient healthcare delivery system across the region.

Saudi Arabia is particularly focused on digitalizing its healthcare system, with substantial funding allocated to initiatives such as AI-powered imaging platforms and mobile diagnostic units. The demand for ultrasound is expanding beyond radiology into specialties like emergency medicine, urology, and orthopedics. There is also a notable increase in the demand for compact, handheld devices that facilitate point-of-care testing in remote areas. Furthermore, the integration of ultrasound devices in telemedicine for real-time consultations is emerging as a significant trend. As GCC countries modernize their healthcare systems and prioritize early intervention, ultrasound is expected to remain a fundamental imaging modality, with substantial growth anticipated in both public and private sectors.

Country Insights

The GCC ultrasound market can be further analyzed by country, with segments including Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman. Saudi Arabia leads the market, attributed to its well-established healthcare system, ongoing reforms, and a strong demand for diagnostic imaging. The country’s Vision 2030 plan aims to modernize healthcare, resulting in rapid growth in hospitals, diagnostic centers, and clinics. Ultrasound technology is increasingly utilized across various medical fields, including elastography, contrast-enhanced ultrasound, and AI-assisted imaging. The rising incidence of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular and metabolic disorders, underscores the need for regular and non-invasive diagnostic testing.

Saudi Arabia is also fostering partnerships between the government and private sector, as well as with international organizations, to introduce innovative concepts and technologies into its healthcare ecosystem. Consequently, Saudi Arabia is a pivotal player in the GCC ultrasound market, shaping regional trends and driving market expansion.

Company Profiles

Key players in the GCC ultrasound market include GE HealthCare, Siemens Healthineers AG, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Canon Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., Esaote SPA, Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co., Ltd., Hologic Inc., Trivitron Healthcare, and Samsung Healthcare. These companies are employing strategies such as market expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness and deliver cutting-edge products to consumers. Show more