Saudi Arabia’s Internet Penetration reached 99.6 percent in 2026, highlighting the widespread adoption of digital services nationwide. The figure covers individuals aged 15 to 74, according to the General Authority for Statistics. GASTAT published the findings through its annual survey examining household and individual access to information technology. The results also highlight differences in usage across age groups, genders and online activities.
Among Saudi nationals, internet usage reached 99.8 percent for males and 99.5 percent for females. However, the figures remained consistently high across both groups, reflecting broad access throughout the population. Young people recorded the highest participation, with internet usage reaching 99.9 percent among individuals aged 15 to 24. This result highlights how strongly digital connectivity features in everyday activities among younger generations.
Internet Access and Devices
Home connectivity remains widespread, as 99.3 percent of individuals reported accessing the internet from their residences. Furthermore, 98 percent said they went online at least once every day. These figures indicate that internet access has become a regular part of daily routines. They also demonstrate the importance of reliable connectivity for communication, information and essential services.
Mobile phones dominated internet access, with 98.4 percent of individuals using them to connect. By comparison, laptops accounted for 13.9 percent, while tablets represented 12.3 percent. Therefore, mobile devices remain the principal gateway to online platforms and digital services. Their widespread use also reflects the convenience of accessing information through portable technology.
Social Media Leads Online Activities
Social networking emerged as the most popular online activity, attracting 99.7 percent of internet users. Participation stood at equal levels among males and females, according to the survey. Meanwhile, searching for information about products and services ranked second, reaching 65.4 percent. This activity demonstrates how people increasingly rely on online platforms when researching potential purchases.
Video consumption also featured prominently, with 87.8 percent watching content through internet platforms. Additionally, 55.2 percent listened to audio content, including digitally available programmes and recordings. Online gaming attracted 19.4 percent of users, making it less common than other activities. Overall, the findings illustrate the variety of ways residents use internet connectivity.
Digital Government Services Record High Usage
Digital government services also recorded extensive participation, reaching 98.4 percent among individuals. Saudi nationals registered a slightly higher figure of 98.6 percent overall. Within this group, usage reached 98.9 percent among males and 98.4 percent among females. Electronic government forms represented the most frequently accessed service, accounting for 89 percent of online government service users.
Consequently, the findings underline the important role of digital platforms in interactions with public institutions. Online services provide residents with access to administrative procedures through connected devices. Their widespread adoption also demonstrates the growing integration of technology into government service delivery.
Online Shopping Expands Consumer Activity
E-commerce participation reached 74.5 percent among internet users, indicating substantial engagement with online purchasing. Among Saudi nationals, the figure increased to 84.9 percent, according to GASTAT. Female Saudi nationals recorded an 86.8 percent participation rate, compared with 83.1 percent among males. These figures show higher reported online shopping participation among women within the national population.
Clothing, footwear, sports goods and household products represented the largest purchasing category. Together, these items accounted for 85.2 percent of reported online purchases. Food, groceries and tobacco products followed with a combined share of 54.4 percent. Meanwhile, books, magazines and newspapers represented 22.8 percent of online purchases.
GASTAT explained that its statistical work follows a unified methodology aligned with international standards. This approach supports comparisons between countries and helps measure progress towards Sustainable Development Goals. The survey therefore provides an overview of how individuals access technology and use digital services. Its findings also offer insight into changing consumer behaviour and the country’s expanding digital environment.
Internet Penetration figures reflect the extensive role connectivity now plays across Saudi society. High usage rates extend beyond communication into shopping, entertainment and public service access. Together, these findings illustrate the country’s broad adoption of digital technology during 2026.
