RIYADH – Internet penetration in Saudi Arabia is exceptionally high, with nearly all residents actively using the web, according to a recent survey released by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). The 2025 survey on access to and use of information and communication technology among households and individuals found that 99.3% of Saudi citizens and 98.6% of non-Saudis are internet users. This widespread adoption has significant implications for the Kingdom’s digital economy and ongoing Vision 2030 initiatives.
The GASTAT report, published Tuesday, details usage patterns across demographics and locations within Saudi Arabia. Approximately 99% of individuals aged 15 to 74 utilize the internet, a figure nearly evenly split between men and women. This high level of connectivity underscores the Kingdom’s commitment to bridging the digital divide and fostering a technologically advanced society.
Dominance of Internet Usage in Saudi Arabia
The survey reveals that accessing the internet at home is almost universal, with 98.7% of individuals doing so. However, a substantial 48.7% also report using the internet while traveling or commuting, indicating a reliance on mobile connectivity. This suggests the importance of robust mobile infrastructure in supporting the nation’s digital habits.
Frequency of use is also remarkably consistent. A vast majority, 96.8%, access the internet daily, while a small percentage, 2.4%, use it at least weekly. Only 0.8% reported monthly or less frequent usage, demonstrating the internet’s integration into daily life for most Saudi residents.
Mobile is the Primary Access Point
Mobile phones are overwhelmingly the preferred method for getting online, with 98.4% of individuals utilizing them for internet access. Tablets account for 9.9% of usage, while laptops are used by 8.6% of the population. Other mobile devices represent a minimal 1.3% share. This reliance on smartphones highlights the need for affordable data plans and widespread mobile network coverage.
Beyond basic connectivity, the survey details specific online activities. Watching online video content is popular, with 79.4% of respondents engaging in this activity. Listening to audio content follows at 32%, and online gaming attracts 11.5% of users. These figures point to a growing demand for digital entertainment options within the Kingdom.
Social networking sites are the most prevalent online destination, used by 96.2% of all internet users. Usage is slightly higher among women (97.1%) than men (95.7%). Following closely is the practice of researching goods and services online, accounting for 57.2% of users, with similar rates for both genders.
E-Government Services and Online Commerce
The Saudi government has made significant strides in digitizing its services, and the survey reflects this effort. An impressive 98.2% of individuals now access government services online, including 98.6% of men and 97.9% of women. The most frequently used service is general access to government information, utilized by 92.7% of online users.
Furthermore, the report indicates a growing trend towards online shopping. 71% of individuals in Saudi Arabia make purchases online, with Saudis comprising the majority of these consumers (80.2%). Notably, online purchasing is more common among women (82.8%) than men (77.6%).
Clothing, footwear, and sporting goods are the most popular online purchases, representing 88.8% of all e-commerce transactions. Cosmetics are also frequently bought online, accounting for 40.2% of purchases. This data provides valuable insights for businesses looking to expand their digital marketing strategies within the Saudi market.
The high rates of internet adoption and usage are closely aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a strategic framework aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil. Increased digital literacy and connectivity are seen as crucial components of this transformation, fostering innovation and creating new economic opportunities.
GASTAT plans to continue monitoring internet penetration and usage patterns through regular surveys. Future reports will likely delve deeper into specific demographics and emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and the Internet of Things. The next comprehensive survey is anticipated in late 2026, and stakeholders will be watching for any shifts in these already remarkably high connectivity rates and their impact on the Kingdom’s economic and social development.
