Artificial Intelligence Becomes the First Choice for the Saudi Consumer
The Deloitte Digital Consumer Trends 2026 Report – KSA Edition revealed a significant shift in the way Saudis use technology, with generative artificial intelligence becoming an essential part of their daily lives, not just a technical experience or curiosity.
Report Details: What Do the Numbers Say?
The report was based on a national survey of 1,000 Saudi consumers aged between 18 and 50. The results were clear: 66% of Saudis regularly use artificial intelligence tools, a massive increase of 17% compared to last year, which recorded 49%. This means that artificial intelligence is no longer a luxury or an experience – but has become a daily tool that the Saudi consumer relies on.
How Do Saudis Use Artificial Intelligence?
The report revealed that the use of AI in work tasks jumped to 45% of consumers. The most common uses are:
- Searching for Information: 51% of users use AI as a primary search tool
- Generating Ideas: 44% rely on AI to help them with creativity and planning
- Language Translation: 42% use instant translation with artificial intelligence
This indicates a radical change in digital behavior, where artificial intelligence has become the first step to gaining knowledge and solving problems, rather than traditional search engines.
The Most Digitally Aware Saudi Consumer
Alongside this enthusiasm for technology, the report showed that the Saudi consumer has become more aware and cautious about digital safety. 41% of Saudis believe that access to social media should be restricted to those over 16 years old. And surprisingly, 66% of Gen Z (youth) are the most supportive of this idea, breaking the stereotype of young people’s attachment to open and unregulated internet.
Infrastructure: Speed and Trust
The report also indicated that 65% of Saudi consumers associate internet services with broadband packages, and the most requested add-ons are:
- Wi-Fi boosters (29%)
- Landline phone services (21%)
- Mobile connectivity (15%)
This means that the Saudi consumer does not just want a connection – but wants high performance and a reliable network that meets their increasing needs for streaming, remote work, and smart devices.
What Does This Mean for the Saudi Market?
Saudi Arabia is entering a new phase of digital adoption. Emmanuel Durou, Partner and Leader of the Technology, Media, and Telecommunications sector at Deloitte Middle East, said: “The speed at which generative artificial intelligence has moved to daily use is astonishing, and it is radically changing how consumers interact with technology in personal and professional contexts.”
The message is clear: Saudi companies and institutions that want to succeed must innovate quickly, but most importantly, build trust and provide real value to the digitally aware consumer.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs artificial intelligence as a daily tool?
Anyone who uses the internet – from employees and students to small business owners. The report shows that AI has become a tool for everyone, not just a few.
For technology specialists.
Where can Artificial Intelligence be used in Saudi Arabia?
Everywhere: work, study, translation, research, marketing, and even personal planning. Free applications like ChatGPT and Google Gemini and Microsoft Copilot are available to everyone.
How much does it cost to use Artificial Intelligence?
Most basic tools are free. There are paid plans (around 50-100 riyals per month) that offer advanced features, but 66% of Saudis currently use free tools.
How long does it take to learn how to use AI?
Modern tools are very easy – anyone can start in minutes. The report shows that daily use has become a habit, not a complex skill that requires months of learning.
How do I start using Artificial Intelligence?
Try ChatGPT or Google Gemini or Microsoft Copilot – all are free applications. Start by asking simple questions, then use them for translation and idea generation, and you will notice the difference yourself.
