Snapchat Launches Key Phase in Saudi Market Following Riyadh Office Opening
Snapchat has opened a new office and content creator hub in Riyadh, attended by Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, Abdullah Al-Sawaha, and Minister of Investment, Khalid Al-Falih, highlighting the Kingdom’s importance to Snapchat’s future strategy.
Snapchat’s Expansion
Minister Al-Sawaha stated at the opening, “We are proud to have Snapchat in Saudi Arabia. We are delighted to be with some of the brightest minds. The platform’s presence in Riyadh is significant, given the 25 million active users in Saudi Arabia, and we look forward to growing that number together.” He noted Snapchat’s positive impact on science and technology, particularly in empowering women, with a 35% increase in female participation exceeding Silicon Valley and the G20 average.
Minister Al-Falih, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Investment, described Snapchat’s Saudi center as “the most vibrant and creative in the world,” adding that it’s powered by Vision 2030-motivated young people in partnership with leading companies like Snapchat.
The Saudi Arabian Market
Abdullah Al-Hamadi, Snapchat’s General Manager in Saudi Arabia, stated that the platform’s significant growth necessitates expansion in the Saudi market. He noted a 300% increase in advertisers over three years, attributing this to Saudi Arabia’s economic development and the growth of the private sector. This advertiser growth reflects the value Snapchat offers both private and public sectors, which utilize the platform for promoting tourism, entertainment, news, and Vision 2030 awareness initiatives.
User Privacy
Al-Hamadi emphasized that Snapchat’s appeal in Saudi Arabia stems from its focus on user privacy and self-expression, resonating well with Saudi and Gulf communities.
He highlighted the opening of a new office and creator studio in Riyadh as the launch of a new phase in the Saudi market, involving new initiatives and partnerships to be announced soon. He expressed enthusiasm about launching the Riyadh office and content creator hub, detailing upcoming initiatives, including a program for training outstanding graduates and partnerships engaging various segments of Saudi society, from entrepreneurs and content creators to advertisers and businesses.
New Initiatives
Al-Hamadi further stated that Snapchat is committed to enriching the platform with Saudi content, contributions, and innovations. The Riyadh office opening in JAX District, Ad Diriyah, and the content creator hub reflect this commitment.
He emphasized Snapchat’s leading role in innovation and technology development, including investments in augmented reality and artificial intelligence, enriching user experiences. He concluded by mentioning the launch of new Snapchat Spectacles and plans to announce further partnerships involving this technology and training Saudi developers in its use.
