YouTube Reports Surge in Million-Dollar Creators in MENA
YouTube has released new data showing a strong rise in creators earning seven-figure revenues in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE. The announcement comes as the platform marks its 20th anniversary.
According to the report, as of December 2024, the number of channels making over 1 million SAR annually in Saudi Arabia grew by 40%. In Egypt, there was a 60% increase in channels earning 7 figures in EGP. Meanwhile, the UAE saw a 15% growth in channels crossing the same revenue milestone in AED.
This growth highlights YouTube's expanding role in supporting creators across the region. Over the last three years, the platform has paid out over $70 billion globally to creators, artists, and media companies.
Javid Aslanov, Head of YouTube in MENA, said the success of local creators reflects their ability to turn content into impactful businesses. He noted that YouTube's diverse tools help creators share their voices and reach international audiences.
New insights also show strong global engagement with MENA content. More than 95% of watch time for UAE-based channels came from outside the country. For Egyptian creators, that figure was over 60%.
YouTube first launched an Arabic-language interface in 2010. In 2012, the YouTube Partner Program expanded to MENA, allowing creators to earn from their content.
Since then, many creators have gained large audiences. These include Hatoon Kadi's comedy show, the animated series Masameer, and Mohamed Abdelhafez's agricultural tips, which have earned over 102 million views.
The platform has also hosted key moments, such as Queen Rania's Visionary Award, the Harlem Shake at the Pyramids, AboFlah's refugee fundraiser, and Thamanyah's Guinness World Record podcast.
In May 2024, YouTube reached 20 million adults in Saudi Arabia and 7.5 million in the UAE. In Qatar, it reached 1.7 million people aged 25–54.
The platform is also gaining ground on connected TVs. That same month, YouTube reached over 12 million viewers in Saudi Arabia, 2.5 million in the UAE, and 600,000 in Qatar.
With formats ranging from video on demand to live streams and podcasts, YouTube continues to evolve. The platform says it will keep investing in the region's creative economy and helping more voices be heard worldwide.
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