The Communications, Space, and Technology Commission of Saudi Arabia recently published its 2024 Internet Report, which presents essential and credible statistics regarding the internet ecosystem and its uses within the Kingdom. The report aims to assess the quality of internet services and highlight advancements in digital offerings. It serves a dual purpose: enhancing the digital service landscape while empowering investors and entrepreneurs, thereby contributing to the establishment of a robust digital economy.
This comprehensive report outlines various indicators and insights into user behavior and preferences regarding internet usage in Saudi Arabia throughout 2024. Notably, it indicated that internet penetration in the Kingdom has soared to an impressive 99%. Peak internet usage hours are identified between 9 PM and 11 PM, with Saturdays designated as the most internet-active day of the week. Furthermore, mobile devices account for a striking 99.4% of internet usage, overshadowing all other types of devices.
In addition, the report delves into user behaviors related to online shopping and the use of applications across various categories. Local e-commerce transactions make up a significant portion, with 93.1% of users opting to shop from Saudi websites. The data also highlights the rising trend of artificial intelligence (AI) utilization, revealing that 21.5% of internet users in the Kingdom engage with various AI applications.
On a global scale, the report provides detailed insights about Saudi Arabia’s position in internet metrics. The per capita monthly consumption of mobile data reaches an extraordinary 48 gigabytes, which is three times higher than the global average. Moreover, the annual growth rate for Saudi domain names has surged to 25%, representing a staggering eightfold increase compared to the global rate. As a result, Saudi Arabia ranks among the top five nations in the G20 regarding mobile internet speeds, reflecting substantial advancements in the country’s digital infrastructure. This progress is integral to enhancing internet accessibility and expanding the reach of digital services.
In summary, the 2024 Internet Report by the Communications, Space, and Technology Commission serves as a vital resource for understanding the current landscape of internet usage in Saudi Arabia. It illustrates the overwhelming adoption of internet services, particularly through mobile devices, along with the significant engagement in online shopping and AI applications. The impressive statistics not only underscore the Kingdom’s progress in digital infrastructure but also signal an encouraging trajectory for the future of its economy. By fostering a conducive environment for digital innovation and investment, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a leader in the global digital arena.
