Some of the emerging trends in Internet usage and behavior in the MENA region are:
1. The rise of social media and e-commerce:
Social media and e-commerce platforms have become increasingly popular and influential in the MENA region, as they offer users various ways to communicate, share, learn, shop and entertain online. According to a report by We Are Social and Hootsuite, the MENA region had 264 million active social media users in 2020, representing 64% of the total population. Some of the most popular social media platforms in the region include Facebook, YouTube, Instagram and Twitter. According to a report by Statista, the MENA region had 164 million e-commerce users in 2020, representing 40% of the total population. Some of the most popular e-commerce platforms in the region include Souq, Noon and Jumia.
2. The growth of digital entertainment and media:
Digital entertainment and media segments such as OTT video, gaming and digital music have grown rapidly in the MENA region, as they offer users more choice, convenience and personalization of content. According to a report by PwC, OTT video revenue in the MENA region is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 17% from 2019 to 2024, reaching $2.1 billion. Some of the most popular OTT video platforms in the region include Netflix, Shahid and Starzplay. Gaming revenue in the MENA region is expected to grow at a CAGR of 14% from 2019 to 2024, reaching $6 billion. Some of the most popular gaming platforms in the region include PUBG Mobile, Fortnite and FIFA. Digital music revenue in the MENA region is expected to grow at a CAGR of 18% from 2019 to 2024, reaching $0.5 billion. Some of the most popular digital music platforms in the region include Anghami, Spotify and Deezer.
3. The adoption of artificial intelligence and emerging technologies:
Artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies such as blockchain, cloud computing and biometrics have been adopted by various sectors and industries in the MENA region, as they offer solutions for innovation, efficiency and security. According to a report by IBM, AI could contribute more than $300 billion to MENA GDP by 2031. Some of the sectors and industries that are using AI in the region include healthcare, education, banking, retail and government. For example, Egypt and Turkey have published their first national AI strategies in 2020, while UAE has approved the use of facial recognition for accessing public and private sector services.
4. The need for digital infrastructure and regulation:
Digital infrastructure and regulation are essential for enabling and governing Internet access and delivery in the MENA region. However, some countries in the region face challenges in terms of digital infrastructure and regulation that may limit or restrict Internet usage and behavior. For example, some countries such as Yemen, Syria and Iraq have limited or underdeveloped digital infrastructure that hinders Internet access and delivery. Some countries such as Iran, Saudi Arabia and Egypt have strict or unclear regulations that may limit or restrict Internet activities and conduct. Therefore, there is a need for more investment, development and collaboration in terms of digital infrastructure and regulation in the region.
