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In a survey conducted during the third quarter of 2024, respondents in Saudi Arabia reported visual digital media accounted for most of their internet usage. On the other hand, respondents spent the least amount of time per day engaging with printed press and radio broadcasts.

Media consumption in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has a growing digital media market. This is aided by strong internet penetration, modern and reliable telecommunication infrastructure, and a large young tech-savvy population. Social media usage, which survey respondents said occupied around hours of their time each day, was topped by Meta-owned companies. The number of YouTube users in the country has also risen significantly in recent years. Such online ad-based social media platforms provide a significant opportunity for advertisers and companies to engage with potential customers. Saudi Arabia has also invested heavily in media and entertainment. In 2014, the state-owned MBC Group launched an ad-free version of its streaming service called Shahid Plus . The total digital revenue of the Shahid platform has consistently increased each year since its launch and has been well-received in other Gulf Cooperation Countries like Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, and the wider MENA region.

Gaming in Saudi Arabia

Gaming is widely popular among Saudis; Saudi Arabia has one of the highest shares of internet users who play video games worldwide.The country is home to both professional and non-professional gamers, who generate revenue through streaming on platforms such as Twitch, participating in competitions, and monetizing their gameplay. In recent years, the industry has witnessed drastic growth. As part of its larger quest to expand the media and entertainment landscape, Saudi Arabia has injected *** of dollars into the gaming industry. Investments are primarily managed through Savvy Games Group, which is a subsidiary of the country’s Public Investment Fund (PIF).