Vinyl and cassette demand rises as physical music formats see a global comeback

Physical music formats, including vinyl records and cassette tapes, are experiencing a significant resurgence. In the UAE, demand for these formats and their players has increased by as much as 20 per cent over the past year. This trend is driven by both older collectors revisiting nostalgic media and younger generations seeking a tactile, physical connection to music through artwork and packaging.

This movement aligns with global trends reported by the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI), which noted an 8 per cent rise in physical music revenue in 2025. Vinyl specifically saw a 13.7 per cent revenue increase, marking 19 consecutive years of growth. Similar patterns are observed in the United States and the United Kingdom, where vinyl revenue has seen substantial climbs.

As interest in retro aesthetics grows, consumer options for vinyl players are expanding, with various models ranging from budget-friendly vintage designs to high-end audiophile equipment available through major retailers like Amazon.