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Download Games - Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia
  • In Saudi Arabia, revenue in the Download Games market is projected to reach US$190.27m in 2025.
  • Revenue is expected to demonstrate an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 2.00%, leading to a projected market volume of US$205.94m by 2029.
  • Within the Download Games market in Saudi Arabia, the number of users is anticipated to amount to 4.9m users by 2029.
  • User penetration will be 12.5% in 2025 and is expected to decrease to 12.2% by 2029.
  • In a global context, the majority of revenue will be generated the United States, which is expected to reach US$5.35bn in 2025.
  • The average revenue per user (ARPU) in the Download Games market in Saudi Arabia is projected to amount to US$39.96 in 2025.
  • Saudi Arabia's Download Games market is experiencing a surge in popularity, driven by increased internet penetration and a youthful, tech-savvy population.

Definition:

Download games refer to video games that are purchased and downloaded digitally over the internet, rather than being obtained through physical copies. This method allows players to access games directly on their gaming devices, such as consoles, computers, or mobile devices, without the need for physical discs or cartridges. Download games often include a wide variety of genres and titles, ranging from indie games to blockbuster releases, and are distributed through various digital storefronts or platforms. Players can enjoy the convenience of instant access to their games and often benefit from additional content, updates, and online features provided by the publishers.

Additional Information:

The market comprises revenues, users, average revenue per user, and penetration rates. Revenues are generated through purchases. Key players in the market are companies, such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft.

In-Scope
  • Online sales of video games for gaming consoles or PCs/laptops via direct downloads such as Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, and Ubisoft
Out-Of-Scope
  • Physical video game sales
  • Demo/trial-versions of video games
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Market Insights report

Games: market data & analysis
Study Details

    Revenue

    Notes: Data was converted from local currencies using average exchange rates of the respective year.

    Most recent update:

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Notes: The chart “Comparable Estimates” shows the forecasted development of the selected market from different sources. Please see the additional information for methodology and publication date.

    Most recent update:

    Most recent update:

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Analyst Opinion

    The Download Games Market in Saudi Arabia is witnessing mild growth, influenced by factors such as increased smartphone penetration, a young population's gaming enthusiasm, and the expansion of internet access, which enhances the accessibility of gaming platforms.

    Customer preferences:
    In Saudi Arabia, consumer preferences within the Download Games Market are shifting towards immersive and socially engaging experiences, reflecting the young population's desire for community and interaction. There is a rising demand for locally developed games that incorporate cultural narratives and themes, appealing to national pride. Additionally, the popularity of multiplayer and online competitive formats is growing, driven by the increasing use of social media and streaming platforms, which enhance connectivity among gamers and foster a vibrant gaming culture.

    Trends in the market:
    In Saudi Arabia, the Download Games Market is experiencing a notable shift towards mobile and cloud gaming, driven by the widespread adoption of smartphones and improved internet infrastructure. The demand for games that foster social interaction and community engagement is on the rise, reflecting the preferences of a young and tech-savvy population. Additionally, there is an increasing interest in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) experiences, which provide immersive gameplay. This trend signifies a growing opportunity for local developers to create culturally relevant content, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape and attracting investment in the gaming sector.

    Local special circumstances:
    In Saudi Arabia, the Download Games Market is uniquely influenced by the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and foster a vibrant entertainment sector. Cultural factors play a significant role, as developers are encouraged to create games that resonate with local traditions and values, appealing to a predominantly young audience. The regulatory environment is also evolving, with increasing support for game development and investment in esports, further stimulating growth. This combination of factors is shaping a distinctive gaming landscape, setting Saudi Arabia apart from other markets.

    Underlying macroeconomic factors:
    The Download Games Market in Saudi Arabia is significantly shaped by macroeconomic factors including the nation’s economic diversification efforts under Vision 2030, which aims to reduce dependence on oil and promote digital innovation. The burgeoning youth population, with a high affinity for gaming, boosts demand for localized content. Additionally, fiscal policies supporting tech investments and the establishment of free zones encourage both local and foreign game developers. Global trends, such as the rise of mobile gaming and esports, further propel market growth, making Saudi Arabia a unique player in the global gaming landscape.

    Users

    Most recent update:

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Global Comparison

    Most recent update:

    Source: Statista Market Insights

    Methodology

    Data coverage:

    The data encompasses B2C enterprises. Figures are based on the Video Games market. Digital video games are defined as fee-based video games distributed over the internet. These include online games, download games, mobile games, and gaming networks. All monetary figures refer to consumer spending on digital goods or subscriptions in the respective market. This spending factors in discounts, margins, and taxes.

    Modeling approach / market size:

    The market size is determined through a bottom-up approach. We use annual financial reports of the market-leading companies and industry associations, third-party studies and reports, survey results from our primary research (e.g., Consumer Insights), as well as performance factors (e.g., user penetration, price per product, usage) to analyze the markets. To estimate the market size for each country individually, we use relevant key market indicators and data from country-specific industry associations, such as various macroeconomic indicators, historical developments, current trends, and reported performance indicators of key market players. In particular, we consider average prices and annual purchase frequencies.

    Forecasts:

    We apply a variety of forecasting techniques, depending on the behavior of the relevant market. For instance, the S-curve function and exponential trend smoothing are well suited for forecasting digital products and services due to the non-linear growth of technology adoption. The main drivers are GDP per capita, consumer spending per capita, and 4G coverage.

    Additional notes:

    The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The market is updated twice a year in case market dynamics change. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is considered at a country-specific level. The data is modeled using current exchange rates. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war are considered at a country-specific level. The market is updated twice a year. In some cases, the data is updated on an ad hoc basis (e.g., when new, relevant data has been released or significant changes within the market have an impact on the projected development). Consumer Insights data is reweighted for representativeness.

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    Key Market Indicators

    Notes: Based on data from IMF, World Bank, UN and Eurostat

    Most recent update:

    Source: Statista Market Insights

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