Digital Marketing Across the Middle East
The Middle East market presents huge potential for growth in digital marketing due to a young, tech-savvy population and rapid increase in internet and smartphone usage. As more businesses recognize the importance of an online presence, demand for skilled digital marketers continues to rise across the region.
Therefore, Social Media Usage Levels Are Sky-High
The Middle East claims some of the highest social media penetration rates in the world, driven by a population where over half are under 25 years old. Social platforms like Instagram, Snapchat and WhatsApp enjoy enormous popularity that brands are tapping into for marketing purposes. Advertisers recognize the engagement and conversion opportunities offered by social media in the region. As such, job prospects for social media marketers focused on the Middle East appear bright.
In addition, Smartphone Adoption Is Surging Rapidly
Smartphone usage across the Middle East has skyrocketed in recent years, doubling or tripling within the past 5 years in many countries. Mobile first has swiftly become the norm for Arab consumers spending most of their online time on apps and mobile browsers. Accordingly, brands have rushed to optimize their offerings for the small screen in order to engage mobile-centric customers. Digital marketing professionals with expertise in mobile UX design, app development and cross-platform advertising will remain in high demand.
Next, Increased Consumption of Online Content
Middle Easterners now spend almost 4 hours per day on average consuming online content like news, videos and social media. Compared to more developed markets, Arab consumers demonstrate a voracious appetite for digital content across all platforms. However, Arabic language content remains limited relative to consumer demand. As content production and distribution ramp up across the region, opportunities will emerge for digital marketers specializing in Arabic and multi-lingual content strategies.
Furthermore, Rapid Growth of Ecommerce
Ecommerce continues to rise sharply in the Middle East due to favorable demographics and increasing internet usage. Online spending across the Middle East & North Africa surpassed $24 billion in 2018 and projections show further doubling by 2022. As physical retailers move online and ecommerce native brands proliferate, the demand intensifies for digital marketers with proficiency in areas like search engine marketing, online advertising and conversion optimization. For those with the right skills, the Middle East ecommerce landscape offers huge potential for career growth.
In summary, many favorable trends point to a rising need for digital marketing in the Middle East. Strong economic growth, a youthful population and rapid technology adoption continue to characterize the region. Meanwhile, supply has yet to match the intense demand from businesses seeking to engage customers in their digital worlds. For digital marketers who understand Middle Eastern culture and demands, the opportunities ahead appear plentiful.