Saudi Arabia’s TikTok Economy: 25,000 Jobs, $1bn Impact

TikTok’s revenue in Saudi Arabia has evolved beyond entertainment to become a most important economic force. The platform’s impact on small and medium-sized business activity added SAR 3.9 billion ($1.04 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP and created over 25,000 jobs nationwide in 2024.

A thriving ecosystem powers these impressive numbers. TikTok has reshaped the scene of the Kingdom’s creative and digital economy with its growing community of more than one million creators and roughly 170,000 small and medium-sized businesses. The platform’s advertising tools helped SMBs generate SAR 3 billion in additional revenue. Saudi businesses have seen positive results, as 61 percent reported better brand visibility through the platform. These achievements align with Saudi Arabia’s expanding media sector, which added SAR 14.5 billion ($3.86 billion) to GDP in 2023.

TikTok contributes $1bn to Saudi GDP and 25,000 jobs

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A groundbreaking socio-economic report shows how TikTok has become an economic powerhouse in Saudi Arabia’s digital world. The platform’s effect goes way beyond the reach and influence of social media entertainment. This becomes clear from a detailed analysis of its contributions throughout 2024.

TikTok-enabled small and medium-sized business activities are now a vital part of the Kingdom’s economy. The platform affected SAR 110 billion in consumer spending last year. These numbers prove TikTok’s role in reshaping Saudi consumer behavior.

On top of that, TikTok helped almost half of businesses launch new products. Saudi companies saved much time on marketing activities – about 42 percent. This boost in efficiency lets businesses focus more on growth and state-of-the-art solutions instead of traditional marketing.

The platform has sparked entrepreneurship across Saudi Arabia. About 55 percent of SMBs say TikTok promotes youth entrepreneurship. This shows how it shapes the next generation of Saudi business leaders. Nearly 25 percent of Saudi women entrepreneurs point to TikTok as their direct inspiration to start businesses. These numbers highlight how the platform helps broaden business ownership.

Saudi Arabia stands out as one of TikTok’s most dynamic markets based on country revenue analysis. The economic benefits reach into many sectors of the economy.

Saudi SMBs increase revenue and visibility via TikTok

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Saudi Arabia’s small and medium businesses see real results from TikTok. The platform’s advertising tools have helped these enterprises earn an extra SR3 billion in revenue. TikTok proves to be an effective marketing channel as 61% of Saudi businesses report better brand visibility through the platform.

These businesses get more than just visibility benefits. TikTok helps 42% of SMBs save valuable time on their marketing work. This allows them to use their resources elsewhere. About half of these businesses have launched new products based on direct feedback from their TikTok audience.

The delivery app Shgardi shows TikTok’s power to drive business growth. The company started its TikTok journey in 2021 and quickly grew to over 13,000 followers. Through partnerships with local content creators, Shgardi’s results soared. They got more than 25,000 app installs during their campaign. The cost per install was 75% lower compared to other digital platforms. Their iOS14+ campaign with creator content reduced install costs by 30% in just two days.

TikTok’s influence reaches beyond marketing. The platform helps develop new entrepreneurs, with 55% of Saudi SMBs saying it encourages young people to start businesses. This marks a fundamental change from old marketing methods. Many businesses now choose TikTok over platforms like Instagram and Snapchat.

TikTok boosts national pride and global image

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TikTok has grown beyond a revenue generator to become Saudi Arabia’s cultural ambassador. The platform’s influence reaches far beyond economic benefits and helps build national pride, cultural exchange, and global visibility.

Saudi users strongly support TikTok’s role in their culture. A striking 88% say it builds national pride, while 62% credit it for helping them learn new skills. Heritage-focused content grows popular, as 39% of users say the platform lets them share their cultural heritage.

TikTok has also raised Saudi Arabia’s global profile. The platform’s Saudi content has inspired 30% of worldwide users to consider visiting the Kingdom. Another 25% believe TikTok has improved Saudi Arabia’s global image in tourism, sports, and culture.

The Ministry of Culture recognized this cultural value and signed an agreement with TikTok to work together in many fields. This partnership wants to highlight Saudi creativity through digital content and support Vision 2030’s cultural goals. The program will create campaigns and creative challenges with Saudi content creators, cultural groups, and new artists.

TikTok has also changed how Saudis explore their country. The app helps 42% of users find new travel spots within Saudi Arabia. This trend fits perfectly with Vision 2030’s plan to broaden the economy by boosting tourism and encouraging locals to explore their country.

TikTok has grown from a social entertainment platform into a vital economic force in Saudi Arabia. The platform now contributes SAR 3.9 billion to GDP and has created 25,000 jobs in the Kingdom’s digital economy. Businesses of all sizes now enjoy better visibility, streamlined processes, and direct consumer engagement that traditional marketing channels couldn’t provide.

The digital ecosystem offers unprecedented opportunities to Saudi entrepreneurs, especially when you have women and youth at the helm. Business owners credit TikTok for inspiring them and providing practical support that turns creative ideas into successful ventures. The platform also acts as a cultural ambassador that deepens their commitment to national identity while reshaping global views of Saudi Arabia.

TikTok’s partnership with the Ministry of Culture proves its value beyond business applications. This joint effort shows how digital platforms can preserve traditions while accepting new ideas – a balance that aligns with Vision 2030’s goals. Saudi citizens now find new destinations in their homeland through engaging content, which helps domestic tourism thrive.

TikTok’s influence on Saudi Arabia tells a compelling digital transformation story. The mix of economic benefits, cultural importance, and business opportunities shows how technology platforms can support national development goals. While still growing, TikTok’s role in Saudi Arabia reveals the full potential of digital platforms to support economic diversity and celebrate cultural heritage.