Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market SIZE AND SHARE ANALYSIS - GROWTH TRENDS AND FORECASTS (2023 - 2030)

Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market Analysis

The Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy market size is expected to be valued at US$ 229.5 million in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 1,275.0 million by 2030, grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 21.3% from 2023 to 2030.

Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market Analysis

The creator economy refers to the class of entrepreneurs, content creators, influencers, bloggers, videographers, and artists who monetize their content online across social media platforms. It is a fast-growing movement driven by the proliferation of social media, smartphone penetration, younger demographics, and the COVID-19 pandemic which has accelerated digital content creation and consumption.

Key drivers include rising internet and smartphone adoption, young populations increasingly seeking creative careers, growth of social media, and desire for localized content. The Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market is segmented by content type, revenue source, platform, and end-user age group. By content type, the videos segment accounted for the largest share. Video creation has exploded thanks to platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Likee. The short-video format resonates with younger audiences and is easy to produce and consume on mobile devices.

• Rising Internet and Smartphone Penetration: The rapid growth in internet and smartphone penetration across the Middle East and Central Asia region is a major driver for the creator economy. Smartphone adoption has exceeded 90% in Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia and UAE. This provides a wider reach for creators to find and engage audiences. As connectivity improves, more people are consuming digital content, providing an incentive for content creation.
• Young, Tech-Savvy Population Seeking Creative Careers: This generation is highly active online and on social media. Many are interested in pursuing creative careers as opposed to traditional options. The creator economy provides a way for them to showcase talent, express themselves, build connections, and generate income. The desire for flexible, project-based freelance work is increasing. All this expands the pool of potential creators in the region.
• Accelerated Shift Towards Digital Media Consumption: Entertainment and media consumption patterns are changing rapidly, with viewership moving from traditional mediums like television to online platforms. Broadcasters and advertisers are increasing digital investments to engage youth audiences. This benefits creators as brands sponsor digital content for better reach and engagement. Music streaming has risen as youth prefer personalized on-demand content. Podcasts and branded content are also gaining popularity.
• Localized Content and Rise of Regional Platforms: There is a growing appetite for content created by and for audiences in the Middle East and Central Asia - be it comedy, news commentary, or lifestyle. Global platforms are prioritizing localization - YouTube launched a Middle East Creators initiative and TikTok added support for Arabic. Homegrown platforms like Anghami, Starzplay and VMate are providing monetization opportunities. As localization increases, it incentivizes more region-specific creators and content.

Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market Trends

• Short-form Video Content Creation: Short-form videos under 60 seconds have become hugely popular thanks to apps like TikTok and Likee. YouTube and Instagram also added support for short videos. The short format allows for easy content creation via smartphones. The length caters to dwindling attention spans of GenZ audiences. Fun challenges, lip-syncing, comedy, and influencer/brand collaborations make the content interactive. The low barriers to entry and playful creativity of short videos make it the fastest growing content segment.
• Live Streaming Taking Off: Live streaming is gaining substantial traction both for entertainment and conversations. Gaming live streams attract huge young audiences. Instagram lives enable direct creator-fan interactions. Conversational live audio apps like Clubhouse are ideal for knowledge sharing. Live shopping featuring product demos is also an emerging format. The raw, unfiltered nature of live content and the ability to directly interact with audiences adds to its appeal. Big tech platforms as well as startups are prioritizing live broadcasts.
• Regionalization of Platforms: Global platforms are localizing their operations to cater to Arab youth. Regional platforms like Starzplay, Anghami, and Fetchr are also gaining prominence. Their local teams, content libraries, and payment/logistics infrastructure gives them an edge in tier-2 cities. Localization also means supporting Arabic interfaces, hashtags, and search. Platforms are recruiting regional creator managers and training programs to guide local talent. All this provides better discoverability and reach for creators based in the region.
• Emergence of Specialized Local Platforms: A range of niche apps targeting specific segments within the creator economy are emerging. These include LittleThinkers for children's content, EgyPreneur for startup advice, and FitnessOriginals for health content. By focusing on a niche, they help creators reach relevant audiences more efficiently. They also enable specialized monetization models like subscriptions for knowledge verticals. Investment in these startups indicates a maturing ecosystem catering to unique local demands beyond the broad global platforms.

Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market Share (%)

Recent Developments in Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market

Middle East and Central Asia Creator Economy Market Segmentation