10 Feb 2023Read of the weekRead of the week: Saudi streamers want more services
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In contrast to the majority of global streamers, people in Saudi Arabia are looking to access more streaming services not less. As people globally trim their discretionary spending, growth in the region suggests an opportunity for content that caters to those less likely to feel inflation pressure.

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J’Nae PhillipsJ'Nae Phillips is a Senior Insights Editor at Canvas8. After an early career working in fashion and media, her passion for culture and journalism grew and she made the transition to writing and editing full-time. She specialises in fashion, trends, cultural shifts and all of the good stuff that gets people talking.

Consumers in Saudi Arabia have a high appetite for streaming media and entertainment services, with a survey by Oliver Wyman Global finding that 80% of people in the region are likely to increase the number of video streaming services that they access. Findings also indicated that Gen Zers are most likely to increase their access to subscriptions despite being the lowest earners.

Research from YouGov shows that Generation Z are the most regular users of streaming services in Saudi Arabia, with 72% using catch-up or streaming services on a regular basis. Gen Y are the second most regular consumers of streaming services (69%), followed by Generation X (6%) and Baby Boomers (45%).

While some markets are cutting back on streaming services, these findings show that streaming hugely impacts how audiences in Saudi Arabia consume TV with a preference for on-demand content ringing clear. As the pay-TV sector in the region is now expected to reach $436 million by 2026, considerate and authentic content is key to keeping and securing new subscribers.