• According to a TikTok report, TikTok-enabled SMBs contributed SAR 3.9B to Saudi Arabia’s GDP in 2024.
• Over 25,000 jobs were linked to activity on the platform, with creators and businesses leveraging digital tools.
• The platform influenced SAR 110 billion in consumer spending and is helping users discover local brands and destinations.
  

TikTok

TikTok, in collaboration with Redseer Strategy Consultants, released a socio-economic impact report titled The TikTok Effect. The report examines the platform’s potential role in the Kingdom’s small business activity and digital economy. 

The report indicates that in 2024, TikTok-enabled SMB activity contributed approximately USD 1.04 billion  (SAR 3.9B) to Saudi’s GDP and supported more than 25,000 jobs. Furthemore, it indicates that it hosts over one million creators and more than 170 thousand small and medium-sized businesses on the platform.

This is in alignment with Saudi’s Vision 2030 of increasing the GDP contribution of SMBs to 35%. The platform aims to open new economic pathways for entrepreneurs, creators, and youth by helping businesses scale their reach, increase efficiency, marketing costs, and innovate.

According to the report, TikTok’s tools and advertising services generated an estimated SAR 3 billion in additional revenue for SMBs. Around 61% of businesses surveyed said their brand visibility improved, while nearly half said they launched new offerings in response to audience feedback. In addition, 42% of SMBs said the social media platform saves them significant time on marketing.

“TikTok’s impact in Saudi Arabia extends well beyond entertainment. The platform is fostering entrepreneurship, enabling job creation, and strengthening cultural identity.”

Dr. Hatem Samman, Executive Director, Government Relations & Public Policy for Saudi Arabia, TikTok

Over half of creators surveyed said the platform helped them reach their audience, potentially supporting income and new opportunities. Furthermore, it signals that this momentum is encouraging entrepreneurship  and broadening access to new career paths particularly among youth and women. In its survey, it reports that about 55% of SMBs indicated the platform motivates young people to start ventures, Meanwhile,  23% of female entrepreneurs said TikTok inspired them to launch businesses.

Consumers

TikTok plays a significant role in how Saudis discover brands, engage with content, and make purchasing decisions. The report estimates that TikTok influenced SAR 110 billion in consumer spending in 2024, with SAR 19 billion in potential consumer surplus.

The report also indicates that TikTok appears to impact cultural engagement as 88% of Saudi users surveyed said the platform fosters national pride. Meanwhile , 42% discovered new domestic travel destinations. Globally, 30% of users said Saudi content on TikTok inspired them to consider visiting the Kingdom.