According to our recent survey conducted among Saudi residents, Saudi Arabia's consumers have a strong appetite for shopping, as 8 out of 10 people claim that they are into shopping (77%), with half (50%) being ’very interested’ in shopping.

Women, particularly those with children, are driving the trend, indicating that family life is a key factor influencing consumer behavior. However, young men living outside major cities appear less inclined towards shopping.

Shopping decisions in Saudi: Planned or Impulsive?

Data reveals a blend of planned and spontaneous buying behaviors among shoppers during White Friday sales, as 78% of consumers plan their shopping ahead of this major sales event, yet nearly half make impulsive purchases (53%).

Mothers are more inclined to plan their shopping, which explains their tendency towards careful and organized purchasing decisions.

Consumers in Saudi show a strong preference for the online shopping experience, which underscores the growing dominance of e-commerce in the Kingdom.

According to the survey’s results, 9 in 10 people in Saudi Arabia say they shop online during the week of White Friday, with nearly half of the sample (47%) exclusively shopping online.

Top 3 Most-shopped Categories on White Friday

Fashion items like clothes, accessories and shoes are the most popular category with 74% interested in these purchases during White Friday sales, followed by tech devices like smartphones, tablets and laptops (53%).

Data also reveals a budget-conscious trend. The majority (36%) of consumers in Saudi spend between SAR 300 and SAR 500 during White Friday sales.

*SAR 300 – 500
Within this price range, apparel, shoes, and accessories appear to be the most popular purchases

** SAR 500 – 1,000
*** More than SAR 1,000
High-spending consumers during White Friday sales prioritize luxury items such as watches, bags, and jewelry, as well as strategic purchase like kids & baby products

Women generally spend more money than men during White Friday sales. Also, residents of major cities like Riyadh and Jeddah tend to spend more on shopping (over SAR 1,000) compared to those living outside these urban centers (spending less than SAR 500).

67% of the respondents expect their shopping and spending for the upcoming White Friday to increase compared to previous years, with the majority being females.

Consumers of luxury items and kids & baby products are more likely to say their spending will significantly increase.

However,
10% of the respondents believe their spending will decrease. Gen Z males not only find shopping less enjoyable, but they also expect to spend less during the upcoming White Friday week compared to previous years.

People who shop for home items (décor, furniture, kitchen and more) are more likely to anticipate reduced spending.