Saudi Arabia Metaverse E Commerce Market Report Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025–2030

Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market is valued at USD 135 million, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing adoption of digital technologies, a surge in online shopping, and the integration of immersive experiences in retail, supported by near-universal internet penetration and very high smartphone usage in the Kingdom. The market is witnessing a shift towards virtual environments where consumers can interact with products in a more engaging manner, with retailers experimenting with augmented reality (AR), virtual try-ons, and 3D product visualization to enhance the overall shopping experience.
• Key cities dominating this market include Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam. Riyadh, as the capital, serves as a hub for technological innovation and investment, underpinned by national digital transformation programs and major e-commerce and fintech activity centered in the city. Jeddah's vibrant retail scene and large, diverse consumer base make it a focal point for omnichannel and experiential retail initiatives, while Dammam, with its strategic location in the Eastern Province, facilitates logistics and distribution, supporting e-commerce fulfillment networks across the country.
• The regulatory environment for digital commerce and immersive online services in Saudi Arabia is shaped by instruments such as the E-Commerce Law, issued by the Ministry of Commerce in 2019, which sets out obligations related to merchant registration, disclosure, consumer protection, electronic contracts, and dispute resolution for online transactions. In parallel, national initiatives under Vision 2030 and the National Digital Strategy are enhancing cloud, 5G, and data infrastructure to support advanced applications including AR/VR and metaverse-style experiences in retail and entertainment, while requiring platforms to comply with data protection, cybersecurity, and payment security standards.

Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market Segmentation

By Type:The market is segmented into various types, including Metaverse-native Marketplaces (Virtual-Only Stores), Omnichannel Retailers with Metaverse Experiences, Direct-to-Avatar (D2A) Commerce, Social & Live Shopping in the Metaverse, and Others. Each of these segments caters to different consumer preferences and shopping behaviors, with Metaverse-native Marketplaces and mobile-first immersive experiences gaining traction as brands test virtual stores, digital twins of malls, and gamified shopping environments to increase engagement and conversion.

By End-User:The end-user segmentation includes Individual Consumers (B2C), Enterprises & Brands (B2B), Creators & Developers, Retail & Mall Operators, and Others. Individual Consumers dominate the market, driven by the growing trend of online shopping, high social media usage, and the desire for personalized and interactive experiences such as virtual try-ons, live shopping, and gamified loyalty in metaverse-like environments.

Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Amazon.sa (Amazon KSA), Noon.com, Jarir Marketing Company (Jarir Bookstore), Cenomi Retail (formerly Fawaz Alhokair Group), Majid Al Futtaim (Carrefour Saudi Arabia & Mall Metaverse Initiatives), stc Group (including stc pay & stc play / XR initiatives), Zain KSA (metaverse & immersive experience partnerships), Savvy Games Group, Gamers8 / Esports World Cup Foundation (EWC) – Saudi Esports Federation ecosystem, NEOM (XR & metaverse experience zones for retail and tourism), The Sandbox (regional partnerships including Saudi retail & mall activations), Roblox (brand-led commerce experiences targeting Saudi users), Binance & Other Web3/NFT Marketplaces Active in KSA (e.g., OKX, Bybit regional), Local Web3 / Metaverse Studios (e.g., Spoilz Games, Manga Productions), Apparel Group (Sandbox VR & immersive retail initiatives in KSA) contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Internet Penetration:As of future, Saudi Arabia boasts an internet penetration rate of approximately 99%, with over 40 million active internet users. This widespread connectivity facilitates access to metaverse platforms, enabling consumers to engage in immersive e-commerce experiences. The country's investment in digital infrastructure, including 5G technology, further enhances online shopping capabilities, making it easier for businesses to reach a broader audience and for consumers to explore virtual marketplaces.
• Rising Adoption of Virtual Reality Technologies:The virtual reality (VR) market in Saudi Arabia is projected to reach $2 billion by future, driven by increasing consumer interest in immersive experiences. Major tech companies are investing in VR hardware and software, which enhances the shopping experience in the metaverse. This trend is supported by the growing availability of affordable VR devices, making it easier for consumers to participate in virtual shopping environments and engage with brands in innovative ways.
• Growing Consumer Demand for Immersive Shopping Experiences:A significant shift in consumer behavior is evident, with 70% of Saudi consumers expressing interest in immersive shopping experiences. This demand is fueled by the desire for personalized and interactive retail environments. Retailers are increasingly leveraging metaverse technologies to create engaging shopping experiences, which not only attract customers but also enhance brand loyalty. The integration of gamification elements in shopping further drives this trend, making the metaverse a compelling platform for e-commerce.

Market Challenges

• Limited Consumer Awareness of Metaverse Platforms:Despite the rapid growth of the metaverse, consumer awareness remains a challenge, with only 35% of the population familiar with metaverse concepts. This lack of understanding hinders adoption rates and limits the potential customer base for businesses venturing into metaverse e-commerce. Educational initiatives and marketing strategies are essential to bridge this knowledge gap and encourage consumer engagement with virtual shopping platforms.
• High Initial Investment Costs for Businesses:Entering the metaverse requires substantial initial investments, with costs for developing virtual storefronts and integrating advanced technologies often exceeding $600,000. This financial barrier poses a significant challenge, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) that may lack the resources to invest in metaverse infrastructure. As a result, many businesses may hesitate to explore this innovative channel, limiting overall market growth.

Saudi Arabia Metaverse E-Commerce Market Future Outlook

The future of the Saudi Arabia metaverse e-commerce market appears promising, driven by technological advancements and evolving consumer preferences. As businesses increasingly adopt virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, the shopping experience will become more interactive and personalized. Additionally, the government's commitment to digital transformation will likely foster a conducive environment for innovation. With the rise of social commerce and virtual events, brands will have new avenues to engage consumers, enhancing their market presence and driving growth in this dynamic sector.

Market Opportunities

• Expansion of E-Commerce Platforms into the Metaverse:E-commerce giants are exploring opportunities to establish virtual storefronts, tapping into the growing consumer interest in immersive shopping. This expansion can significantly enhance brand visibility and customer engagement, potentially increasing sales and market share in the competitive retail landscape.
• Collaborations with Tech Companies for Enhanced Experiences:Partnerships between retailers and technology firms can lead to innovative solutions that improve the metaverse shopping experience. By leveraging cutting-edge technologies, businesses can create unique, engaging environments that attract consumers and differentiate themselves in the market, driving growth and customer loyalty.