YouTube or YouTube is the largest video platform in the world and the second most visited site after Google. It was founded in 2005 and acquired by Google in 2006 for $1.65 billion. Today, more than 2.5 billion users visit it every month. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything about YouTube, its features, and how to get started.

What is YouTube?

YouTube is a video-sharing platform where you can upload your own videos, watch others, and engage with them. Backed by Google, it’s available in almost every country worldwide. Over 500 hours of video are uploaded every minute!

YouTube isn’t just for entertainment—it’s an educational, commercial, and media platform. You can learn programming, watch product reviews, follow news, and even stream full-length documentaries.

Key Features

1. Uploading Videos

Anyone can upload videos from their computer or phone. Supported formats include MP4, MOV, and AVI. The maximum size is 256 GB or 12 hours.

2. YouTube Shorts

Short, vertical videos—like TikTok. You can create them from your phone, add music, text, and effects. Shorts are highly popular and help you reach new audiences quickly.

3. Channels and Subscriptions

You can create a free channel, and people can subscribe to get notified of new uploads. A single channel includes videos, playlists, Shorts, live streams, and even a store.

4. Live Streaming

Broadcast live to your audience—whether it’s gaming, conferences, or panel discussions.

5. YouTube Music

A music and podcast app. Ad-free with Premium.

6. YouTube Kids

Designed for kids under 13. Content is filtered and safe, with parental controls.

How to Get Started

Step 1: Create a Google account (Gmail).

Step 2: Create a channel—from your account icon, select “Create a channel.”

Step 3: Prepare your videos. Your phone is enough to start—the content matters most.

Step 4: Upload your first video—a clear title, useful description, and an eye-catching thumbnail.

Step 5: Promote on social media.

Tips for Beginners

  • Consistency: Post at least once a week
  • Thumbnail: Invest in it—it’s the first thing viewers see
  • Titles: Clear and engaging—but don’t mislead
  • SEO: Use keywords in titles, descriptions, and tags
  • Engagement: Reply to comments and ask your audience questions

YouTube Premium

A monthly subscription that gives you: ad-free viewing, video downloads, background play, and YouTube Music. The price in Saudi Arabia is around 19.99 SAR.

Making Money on YouTube

You need 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours to join the Partner Program. Ways to earn: ads, memberships, Super Chat, affiliate marketing, sponsorships.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is YouTube free?

Yes, watching is free. Premium is optional to remove ads.

What’s the maximum video size?

256 GB or 12 hours. For longer videos, you need to verify your identity.

How do I download a YouTube video?

You need a Premium subscription for official downloads. Third-party sites risk copyright issues.

What’s the difference between YouTube and YouTube Kids?

Regular YouTube is for all ages. YouTube Kids is for children under 13, with filtered and safe content.

Does YouTube need a VPN?

No. YouTube works normally in Saudi Arabia and is used by millions daily.

How do I delete a video from my channel?

YouTube Studio > Content > Select video > Three dots > Delete permanently.

Does YouTube pay beginners?

You must reach 1,000 subscribers and 4,000 watch hours to start earning.

How many YouTube users are there in Saudi Arabia?

Over 27 million monthly users.