Market Facts

Saudi Arabia

  • Population: Over 35 million (2024)
  • Urbanization: Highly urbanized, with over 85% of the population living in cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.
  • Gender Distribution: 57% male, 43% female
  • Age Distribution: Approximately 65% of the population is under 35, reflecting a young demographic profile. The median age is around 30 years.
  • Expats vs Locals: About 30% of the population are expats, mainly from South Asia, Africa, and other Arab countries. The rest are Saudi nationals.
  • Literacy Rate: High, with a literacy rate of approximately 97%. Education is compulsory for both genders, contributing to the high literacy rate.
  • Languages: Arabic (official), English is widely spoken in business.
  • Key Sectors: Telecom, Retail, Financial Services, Healthcare, E-commerce.
  • Digital Penetration: High smartphone penetration (over 90%); strong internet usage, with mobile broadband leading the way. The demand for 5G services and mobile banking is rapidly increasing.
  • Consumer Behavior: High spending power with a strong inclination toward luxury goods, digital services, and e-commerce. Saudi consumers are tech-savvy, with growing demand for online shopping and digital content.
  • Cultural Nuances: Family-centric society with a strong preference for personalized and exclusive services. High levels of government regulation, with emphasis on Vision 2030 goals to diversify the economy.