Gcc Subscription Video On Demand Svod Market Report Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025–2030

GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market Overview

• The GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market is valued at USD 1.4 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing penetration of high-speed internet, the proliferation of smart devices, and a growing preference for on-demand content among consumers. The rise in disposable income, rapid urbanization, and government-led digital transformation initiatives across GCC countries have also significantly contributed to the market's expansion, along with a shift toward premium quality displays, smart TVs, and multi-device streaming.
• Key players in this market include Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, which dominate due to their high internet penetration rates, substantial investments in digital infrastructure, and a young, tech-savvy population. The cultural diversity and strong demand for localized and Arabic-language content, together with the presence of major regional platforms such as Shahid and STARZPLAY alongside global services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video, further enhance the attractiveness of these markets for SVOD providers.
• In 2023, the Saudi Arabian government implemented regulations to further support local content production and distribution in the audiovisual and on-demand sector, in line with the Audiovisual Media Law and its Executive Regulations issued by the General Commission for Audiovisual Media (GCAM) in 2018. These rules set licensing and content classification requirements for on-demand and streaming platforms operating in the Kingdom, including obligations related to the promotion and visibility of local content and adherence to Saudi cultural, ethical, and language standards. While platform catalog quotas can vary by service model, operators are expected to maintain a meaningful share of Arabic and locally relevant works, and to invest in or acquire Saudi productions as part of their licensing and compliance framework.

GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market Segmentation

By Content Type:The content type segmentation includes various categories such as Movies, TV Series & Shows, Documentaries, Sports & Live Events, Kids & Family Content, Originals & Exclusive Content, and Others. Among these, TV Series & Shows have emerged as the leading sub-segment, driven by the increasing demand for binge-watching and the popularity of serialized storytelling, which is consistent with global SVOD consumption patterns where series account for a major share of viewing time. The rise of platforms producing exclusive series and originals, particularly Arabic-language dramas, comedies, and Ramadan-season series in the GCC, has further solidified this segment's dominance, appealing to diverse audience preferences and encouraging continuous subscription retention.

By Subscriber Type:The subscriber type segmentation encompasses Individual Subscribers, Household / Family Plans, Small & Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Large Enterprises, Educational Institutions, Hospitality & Public Venues, and Others. The Household / Family Plans sub-segment is currently leading the market, as families prefer shared subscriptions for cost-effectiveness, multiple user profiles, and access across several devices, which mirrors global SVOD subscription behavior dominated by multi-user plans. This trend is further supported by the increasing number of family-oriented and kids’ content offerings, multi-screen bundles with telecom operators, and integrated billing partnerships between SVOD platforms and GCC mobile and pay-TV operators.

GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market Competitive Landscape

The GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Netflix, OSN Streaming, Shahid VIP (MBC Group), STARZPLAY Arabia, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Apple TV+, YouTube Premium, beIN CONNECT (beIN Media Group), TOD (beIN Media Group), Jawwy TV (stc TV), Eros Now, ZEE5, Viu, STARZPLAY-powered Operator Platforms & White Labels contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Internet Penetration:The GCC region has witnessed a significant rise in internet penetration, reaching approximately 99% in future, according to the International Telecommunication Union. This surge facilitates access to SVOD platforms, enabling a broader audience to engage with streaming services. The World Bank reports that the region's digital economy is projected to contribute $20 billion to GDP in future, further driving demand for online content consumption and enhancing the viability of SVOD offerings.
• Rising Demand for Original Content:The appetite for original content in the GCC is escalating, with local productions increasing by 30% in future, as reported by the Arab Media Outlook. This trend is fueled by a growing preference for culturally relevant narratives, prompting SVOD providers to invest heavily in regional content. The GCC's media sector is expected to reach $25 billion in future, indicating a robust market for original programming that caters to diverse audiences across the region.
• Shift in Consumer Behavior Towards On-Demand Viewing:Consumer behavior in the GCC is increasingly favoring on-demand viewing, with a reported 60% of viewers preferring SVOD services over traditional cable in future. This shift is supported by the rise of mobile devices, with smartphone penetration at 90%, according to Statista. As consumers seek flexibility in viewing options, SVOD platforms are well-positioned to capture this demand, leading to a significant increase in subscriptions and engagement.

Market Challenges

• Intense Competition Among Providers:The GCC SVOD market is characterized by fierce competition, with over 15 major players vying for market share in future. This saturation leads to aggressive pricing strategies, which can erode profit margins. According to a report by PwC, the average revenue per user (ARPU) in the region is projected to decline by 10% as providers compete for subscribers, making it challenging for new entrants to establish a foothold.
• Regulatory Compliance Issues:SVOD providers in the GCC face stringent regulatory compliance challenges, particularly concerning content censorship and data protection laws. In future, the region's regulatory framework is expected to tighten, with new laws mandating stricter content guidelines. Compliance costs are projected to rise by 15%, impacting operational budgets and potentially limiting the diversity of content available on SVOD platforms, as reported by the Gulf Cooperation Council.

GCC Subscription Video on Demand (SVOD) Market Future Outlook

The future of the GCC SVOD market appears promising, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. As 5G technology becomes more widespread, streaming quality will improve, enhancing user experiences. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence for personalized content recommendations is expected to boost viewer engagement. With a growing focus on regional content production, SVOD platforms are likely to expand their offerings, catering to diverse audiences and solidifying their market presence in the coming years.

Market Opportunities

• Growth in Regional Content Production:The GCC is experiencing a surge in regional content production, with investments expected to exceed $1 billion in future. This growth presents SVOD platforms with the opportunity to diversify their content libraries, attracting local audiences and enhancing subscriber retention through culturally relevant programming.
• Partnerships with Telecom Operators:Collaborations between SVOD providers and telecom operators are on the rise, with over 30% of SVOD services in the region expected to bundle offerings with mobile plans in future. These partnerships can enhance market penetration, providing consumers with seamless access to streaming services while driving subscriber growth for both parties involved.