Research has revealed differing language preferences for apps in the Middle East.
The study, by On Device Research, found that 81% of Saudi Arabian smartphone users downloaded apps written in Arabic.
In contrast, just 39% of smartphone users in the UAE said they downloaded Arabic language apps, with many expressing a preference for international apps.
This shows that while an English language app may be the best approach when targeting the UAE, an Arabic language app is essential for success in Saudi Arabia.
The Middle East has a strong smartphone penetration, with smartphone owners being very active on apps.
Over half of smartphone owners in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, Jordan and Lebanon said they had downloaded at least 5 apps in the last month, with 40% saying they were prepared to pay to download an app.Â
