A ban worth billions: you won't believe how much Saudis spend on energy drinks every year

People in Saudi Arabia consume energy drinks worth about SR6 billion ($1.599 billion) a year, a member of the Jeddah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI) was quoted as saying.

Fahd Al Tayar, a member of the Food and Beverage Committee at JCCI said in the Arab News report that initial estimates indicate that 5 million young men consume more than 5 million energy drink cans daily, worth SR15 million. This translates to an average monthly expenditure of SR450 million.

Saudi cabinet last week banned the sale of energy drinks at government, educational and health facilities. They also prohibited companies advertising these products and sponsoring social, cultural and sports events.

Al Tayar said following the curbs, energy drinks will progressively disappear from the market.

A single can contains about 30 tablespoons of sugar, according to preliminary investigation, in addition to high levels of caffeine compared to other beverages, the report said.