According to USDA-FAS GAIN report 2020-0013 released on September 10th, Saudi Arabia produced 5.2 billion table eggs in 2018.  Assuming an average flock production of 75 percent on a hen-day saleable basis, the national flock averages 19 million hens in production.

In February 2020, producers in Saudi Arabia were impacted by an outbreak of H5N8 that reduced output by 30 percent.  The decrease in production coincided with increased demand associated with a COVID-19 lockdown.  Accordingly, egg prices soared in response. The Saudi Agricultural and Livestock Investment Company, a state entity, imported table eggs from the Ukraine, the EU and Turkey in addition to some shipments from the U.S.  Flocks were replenished by the third quarter and market stability has returned.  Traditionally Saudi Arabia is more than self-sufficient in eggs although it is estimated that per capita consumption is at 150 eggs suggesting a potential for increased demand.  Surplus eggs are exported to other GCC nations with Bahrain predominating and the UAE representing the second largest importer.