An Exploratory Study of the Effects of Social Media in Everyday Life and Consumer Behavior in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Objectives/Methods: The study attempts to describe the effects of social networking in Saudi everyday life and consumer behavior. The data were gathered from a peer-moderated and pre-tested questionnaire (appendix) that was, then, made available on- and off-line. Findings: The results suggest that Saudis are making very heavy use of the Social Media Networks mainly because they want or need (or both) to socialize and enrich their cultural life as much as possible given the general lack of other opportunities available especially in non-central cities. They don’t seem to care or understand the possible negative issues associated with the extensive use of social networking. Conclusions: These suggestions are meant to lead to more systematically organized studies in the near future from the local authorities in an effort to better facilitate the organization of the online social community in the country and form policies aiming to mitigate possible threats from over- engagement.