Twitch connects Arabic-speaking communities with new feature
''Launching Arabic RTL reflects our commitment to building a service where streamers from every background can thrive,'' said Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch. 'By delivering Arabic RTL, we're enabling access, and supporting streamers to build vibrant communities in their own language. Our long-term vision is to localise with purpose and invest in the people behind the content. We've seen incredible growth across the Arabic-speaking world, and we're excited to continue investing in the tools that support community, creativity, and connection across the region.'
Streamers across MENA are welcoming the update as a meaningful step toward recognition and inclusion. Saudi Arabia–based Twitch Partner Meshael MR said, 'This update makes Twitch feel more like home. It removes barriers for new streamers and shows that Twitch sees our community and is building with us.'
The Arabic RTL interface enables full right-to-left navigation across Twitch's desktop and mobile services. Arabic language settings are now available to users globally and can be activated via account settings or by adjusting device language preferences. Further localisation – notifications and emails – is expected to roll out in Q3 and Q4 of this year.
The update comes at a time of strong momentum for Twitch across the MENA region. In 2024 alone, viewers in MENA spent more than 209 million hours watching content on Twitch – a testament to its growing relevance among Arabic-speaking audiences. The top categories in the region include Just Chatting, Valorant, League of Legends, Counter-Strike, and Overwatch 2.
As esports viewership continues to grow across the region, Twitch remains a key service for fans and players alike. The Arabic RTL experience also aligns with the region's rapidly expanding gaming economy, which is forecast to surpass $6 billion by 2027, driven by national digital strategies and youth-led innovation.
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