Middle East and Africa Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Systems Market Outlook (2021-2031)

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems market in the Middle East and Africa (MEA) is projected to grow significantly, with an expected market size of approximately US$ 367.74 million by 2031, up from US$ 318.36 million in 2024. This growth translates to a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 2.1% from 2025 to 2031.

Executive Summary and Market Analysis

The MEA region showcases a diverse landscape for MRI systems, characterized by stark contrasts in healthcare infrastructure and investment levels. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, lead the way with substantial government investments in advanced healthcare facilities. In contrast, many African nations are still developing their healthcare systems, focusing on establishing fundamental diagnostic services. This disparity creates a market that accommodates both high-end, sophisticated MRI systems and more affordable or refurbished options.

The increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as cancer and neurological disorders, is a significant driver for the demand for precise diagnostic tools like MRI systems. Additionally, the region's growing medical tourism sector is propelling the adoption of advanced MRI technologies. Countries like the UAE and Saudi Arabia are positioning themselves as premier healthcare destinations, attracting patients seeking high-quality medical services. This emphasis on medical tourism necessitates the acquisition of cutting-edge imaging technologies, aligning with national strategies for economic diversification and the growth of high-field MRI systems.

Market Segmentation Analysis

The MRI systems market can be segmented based on various criteria, including type, field strength, mobility, application, and end user.

1. Type: The market is divided into closed MRI systems and open MRI systems. In 2024, closed MRI systems dominated the market due to their superior imaging capabilities.
2. Field Strength: MRI systems are categorized into low-field, mid-field, and high & ultra-high field systems. The mid-field segment led the market in 2024, offering a balance between cost and imaging quality.
3. Mobility: The market is segmented into fixed and portable MRI systems, with fixed systems holding the largest share in 2024, primarily due to their widespread use in hospitals.
4. Application: The applications of MRI systems include neurology, oncology, cardiology, orthopedics, gastroenterology, gynecology, and others. The neurology segment was the largest in 2024, reflecting the high demand for brain imaging.
5. End User: The end users of MRI systems include hospitals, specialty clinics, diagnostic imaging centers, academic and research institutes, among others. Hospitals accounted for the largest market share in 2024, driven by their need for comprehensive diagnostic capabilities.

Market Outlook

The MRI systems market in the MEA region is on a gradual growth trajectory, with significant potential fueled by government-led initiatives. National healthcare visions, such as Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and similar plans in the UAE, are pivotal in driving market growth. These initiatives involve substantial investments in healthcare infrastructure, including the construction of new hospitals and specialized diagnostic centers, which in turn creates a sustained demand for advanced medical equipment like MRI systems.

Moreover, there is a growing emphasis on preventive healthcare and early disease detection, shifting the focus from reactive to proactive care. The rising incidence of chronic illnesses, combined with increased public awareness, is leading to a heightened demand for advanced imaging technologies. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and hybrid imaging technologies is emerging as a significant trend, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency, which healthcare providers find increasingly valuable for improving patient outcomes and optimizing workflows.

Country Insights

The MRI systems market in the MEA region is further segmented by country, including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, Turkiye, South Africa, Egypt, Nigeria, Algeria, and the Rest of MEA. Saudi Arabia is expected to maintain the largest market share in 2024.

Saudi Arabia stands out as a key player in the MRI systems market, bolstered by a strong economic foundation and a comprehensive healthcare reform agenda under Vision 2030. This has led to consistent capital investments in medical infrastructure, including the establishment of advanced medical cities and increased public-private partnerships. The high prevalence of chronic diseases and a growing urban population contribute to a significant volume of diagnostic procedures, further driving the demand for high-field MRI scanners.

Company Profiles

Key players in the MEA MRI systems market include GE HealthCare, Siemens Healthineers AG, FUJIFILM Holdings Corporation, Canon Inc., Koninklijke Philips N.V., HYPERFINE, INC., Esaote SPA, Shanghai United Imaging Healthcare Co., LTD, FONAR Corp., and Neusoft Medical Systems. These companies are actively engaged in strategies such as market expansion, product innovation, and mergers and acquisitions to maintain competitiveness and deliver innovative solutions to their customers. Show more