Social Media in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia has one of the highest users of social media with various platforms vying for the attention of its tech-savvy population. In this post, we will focus on the most used social media channels in Saudi Arabia, shedding light on their significance and influence in shaping communication, culture, and commerce in the Kingdom. It is important to Master social Media as this is a key component for success. That’s why we offer bespoke 1:1 Social Media Training.

 

WhatsApp: The Communication Hub

WhatsApp reigns supreme as the most popular social media platform in Saudi Arabia. This messaging app has become an integral part of daily life, with millions of Saudis using it for both personal and business communication.

WhatsApp’s end-to-end encryption and user-friendly interface have made it the preferred choice for staying in touch with friends, family, and colleagues. (the only thing not working is calls on what’s app presently)

 

Twitter or X: More than 12 Million Users

Twitter is a powerhouse of news in Saudi Arabia. With a substantial user base of 12 million and growing, it serves as a virtual town square where Saudis discuss current events, share opinions, and engage in spirited debates.

PIF, Saudi’s Public Investment Fund also has substantial shares into the Company.

 

Instagram: Visual Storytelling

Instagram is the go-to platform for visual storytelling and personal expression. It has transformed how Saudis document their lives, interests, and travels. Instagram’s features, such as Stories, IGTV, and shoppable posts, have made it a hub for influencers, businesses, and content creators to share their passions and engage with a highly visual audience.

Be prepared for Saudis to know what is hot and what is not before you do!

 

Snapchat: Evolving Communication

Snapchat has captured the imagination of Saudi youth with its ephemeral content and interactive features. The platform’s Stories and AR filters are immensely popular, providing a playful and creative way for Saudis to connect with friends and explore augmented reality experiences.

Snapchat is also popular because stories disappear after 24 hours and private details are not shared – even screenshots are shown to users.

 

YouTube: Educational & Entertainment Hub

YouTube serves as an educational and entertainment hub in Saudi Arabia. The platform offers a vast array of content, from educational tutorials to entertainment channels, catering to a wide range of interests. Saudi YouTubers have gained popularity, attracting subscribers with their diverse content, including travel vlogs, tech reviews, and lifestyle tips.

 

TikTok: The Short-Form Sensation

TikTok has taken the Saudi social media scene by storm with its short-form videos and creative challenges. It has become a platform where Saudis showcase their talents, humour, and creativity. TikTok has rapidly evolved into a space where influencers collaborate with brands and share viral content.

 

Facebook: Connecting Communities

While Facebook remains a significant platform in Saudi Arabia, its popularity has somewhat waned compared to other platforms. Nonetheless, it still serves as a space for connecting communities, businesses, and groups. Facebook’s Marketplace and Pages feature prominently in the Kingdom’s e-commerce and business landscape.

 

LinkedIn: Building B2B Relationships

LinkedIn has gained significant traction in Saudi Arabia as a professional networking powerhouse. With its user-friendly interface and emphasis on career development and networking, LinkedIn has become a vital platform for Saudi professionals, job seekers, and businesses.

It serves as a hub for connecting with peers, industry leaders, and potential employers, making it an essential tool for career growth and business expansion. In Saudi Arabia’s evolving job market and business landscape, LinkedIn has emerged as a go-to platform for building and nurturing professional relationships, sharing industry insights, and discovering new opportunities.

A lot of the Giga projects from the Kingdom are on LinkedIn and share news, insights and jobs – as one of the Saudi Minister’s recently said: It is not rocket science – you can find us on LinkedIn.

We have several MasterClasses on how to use LinkedIn, where to find the Giga Projects and much more in our Middle East Resources or you can book a bespoke 1:1 Lesson here.

The prevalence of these social media channels has had a profound impact on Saudi society:

1. Influence on Culture: Social media platforms have played a role in shaping and redefining Saudi culture. They have provided a space for cultural expression and have allowed Saudis to share their heritage with the world.
2. Economic Growth: The rise of e-commerce and influencer marketing on social media has contributed to Saudi Arabia’s economic growth. Entrepreneurs and businesses have leveraged these platforms to reach larger audiences and drive sales.
3. Youth Empowerment: These platforms have empowered Saudi youth to become content creators, entrepreneurs, and influencers. They have enabled the younger generation to have a significant impact on societal trends and consumer behaviour.

Social media channels in Saudi Arabia have transcended mere platforms for communication; they have become catalysts for cultural expression, economic growth, and networking. It is imperative for doing business in the Kingdom that you can adapt your communication style to your Saudi counterparts. We are here to help you master this and and answer all your questions in the Middle East Consultation.

As Saudi Arabia continues its digital journey, the influence of these social media channels is expected to evolve further, impacting not only how Saudis communicate but also how they engage with the world and each other. The Kingdom’s dynamic social media landscape reflects the power of technology in shaping culture, commerce, and community in the 21st century.

We have collated all the Giga Projects and more from the Vision 2030 that you may not have heard of in the Kingdom, which you can download for FREE here.