Saudi Arabia’s Internet Penetration Hits 99% Among 15–74-Year-Olds, GASTAT Survey Reveals

Saudi Arabia Achieves Near-Universal Internet Usage Among 15–74-Year-Olds, GASTAT Survey Shows

Saudi Arabia has reached an exceptional milestone in digital connectivity, with 99% of individuals aged 15–74 reporting regular internet use, according to the 2025 ICT Access and Usage survey by the General Authority for Statistics (GASTAT). This near-universal adoption reflects one of the highest internet penetration rates globally and underscores the Kingdom’s rapid digital transformation.

Demographic Breakdown

The survey reveals balanced adoption across demographics:

• Saudi citizens: 99.3%

• Non-Saudis: 98.6%

• Men: 99.0%

• Women: 98.9%

This parity highlights widespread digital inclusion, aligning with national efforts under Saudi Vision 2030 to foster an inclusive digital society.

Access Patterns and Device Usage

• Household Access: 98.7% of respondents use the internet at home.

• Mobile Connectivity: 48.7% access the internet while traveling, emphasizing the prevalence of mobile connectivity.

• Daily Usage: 96.8% of users go online at least once per day.

• Preferred Device: Mobile phones dominate with 98.4% usage, followed by tablets (9.9%) and laptops (8.6%).

Popular Online Activities

• Social Media: 96.2% of users engage with platforms like WhatsApp, YouTube, Snapchat, and TikTok.

• Content Consumption: 79.4% watch online videos, 32% listen to audio content, and 11.5% participate in online gaming.

• Product Research: 57.2% use the internet to explore goods and services, highlighting digital influence on consumer behavior.

E-Government and E-Commerce Adoption

• E-Government: 98.2% of users access government services online, with 92.7% utilizing general government platforms—a testament to Saudi Arabia’s advanced digital governance.

• E-Commerce: 71% of individuals make online purchases, with Saudis (80.2%) more active than non-Saudis. Clothing and footwear (88.8%) and cosmetics (40.2%) are top categories, and women slightly outpace men in online shopping participation.

Global Context

Saudi Arabia’s 99% internet penetration places it among global leaders like South Korea and Singapore, showcasing the success of national investments in digital infrastructure and inclusion policies.

Also Read: Saudi-Led Coalition Strikes Yemen After STC Leader Flees Peace Talks

Implications and Future Outlook

This survey underscores the internet’s integral role in Saudi daily life—from communication and entertainment to governance and commerce. As digital technologies evolve, Saudi Arabia is well-positioned to sustain high connectivity while expanding its digital ecosystem, supporting economic diversification and enhancing quality of life under Vision 2030.

The GASTAT findings not only highlight current achievements but also set a benchmark for future digital initiatives, reinforcing Saudi Arabia’s status as a digitally advanced and forward-looking nation.