A new regional study reveals that voice assistants are becoming a common part of daily life in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, signaling a shift toward greater comfort with voice-driven technology across Arabic-speaking households. The research found that 85% of respondents in both countries have used a voice assistant, and 43% do so regularly.
The findings suggest a link between the growing use of voice technology and national AI strategies. About 74% of participants said they are aware of their country’s AI initiatives, showing how government-led digital agendas are shaping everyday adoption. Language remains a key factor: 65% of respondents prefer using Arabic as their main voice assistant language, with Khaleeji Arabic emerging as the most popular dialect. More than half (56%) said it was important that these systems understand local accents and expressions, emphasizing the need for culturally attuned technology.
The study also points to voice assistants’ role in strengthening family connections. Half of those surveyed believe Arabic-language assistants help younger family members maintain or improve their Arabic skills, while 48% said the technology encourages older relatives to engage more confidently with digital tools. This generational bridge reflects how localized technology can enhance both language preservation and digital participation.
According to Dr. Raf Fatani, Regional General Manager for Alexa MENA, the results highlight how quickly voice technology is integrating into everyday life in the Gulf. He noted that focusing on authentic dialects and regional context has helped make the experience feel natural and relevant to local users.
While searching for information remains the most common use case (42%), there is rising interest in Arabic-first features such as educational content (39%), integration with local services (33%), smart home management, and religious support.
Overall, the research underscores how the blend of language, culture, and accessibility is driving the next phase of smart technology adoption across the Gulf region.
