TikTok supports 7,000 jobs in UAE, SMBs contribute AED 1.1bn to the economy: Report

TikTok-enabled small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) contributed AED 1.1 billion to the UAE economy and supported more than 7,000 jobs, according to a new economic impact report unveiled at the World Government Summit 2026.

The report, titled The TikTok Effect: Enabling the UAE’s Dynamic Digital Economy, was launched during the summit, which brought together over 6,250 government leaders and experts under the theme “Shaping the Governments of the Future.” It was announced in the presence of His Excellency Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy and Remote Work Applications.

Developed in partnership with Redseer Strategy Consultants, the report examines TikTok’s contribution to the UAE’s economic, creative, and social development. It estimates that more than 10,000 SMBs in the UAE started their businesses because of TikTok, while over 70,000 local SMBs are currently active on the platform.

Boost to Entrepreneurship and the Creative Economy

The findings highlight TikTok’s expanding role in supporting entrepreneurship and enabling income generation within the creative economy. One in four creators surveyed cited TikTok as the primary reason they began creating content, with many transitioning from part-time content creation to sustainable careers across sectors such as media, fashion, music, and entertainment.

The platform’s influence aligns with the UAE’s broader economic diversification strategy by supporting emerging digital professions and expanding monetisation opportunities for creators and small businesses.

Commenting on the report, Al Olama said the UAE has positioned itself as a global leader in the digital economy through a forward-looking strategy that prioritises advanced technologies and innovation-driven growth. He noted that the country’s regulatory and business environment enables global platforms to expand their impact while contributing to national economic competitiveness and wellbeing.

Jenan Mohamed Alhashili, Head of Public Policy, GCC at TikTok, said the platform has evolved beyond entertainment, contributing over AED 1 billion to the economy and supporting thousands of jobs. She added that lowering barriers for entrepreneurs and amplifying local culture supports the UAE’s innovation-led vision.

Tourism and Destination Discovery

The report also highlights TikTok’s role in tourism and destination discovery. An estimated 10% of tourist spending in the UAE is influenced by TikTok, according to the findings.

In key inbound markets such as the United Kingdom and the United States, 50% of TikTok users report becoming aware of the UAE as a travel destination through content on the platform. Domestically, 39% of users say TikTok increased their awareness of attractions, restaurants, events, and experiences within the country.

Through creator-led storytelling and short-form video content, the platform contributes to how the UAE is perceived globally as a modern and culturally diverse destination.

Skills Development and Social Connection

Beyond its economic impact, the report underscores TikTok’s contribution to skills development and social engagement. Around 26% of users cite learning as their primary reason for using the platform. 

Additionally, 75% report developing professional skills, while 81% say they have built personal skills through content consumed on TikTok. Nearly 94% of users consider the platform relevant for staying informed and accessing useful knowledge.

In a country home to more than 200 nationalities, TikTok also plays a role in cultural expression and community building. About 79% of users say the platform motivates them to share their cultural identity. National hashtags such as #UAENationalDay and #UAEFlagDay have generated over 200,000 posts and more than 2 billion views, reflecting widespread digital participation.

Focus on Safety and Wellbeing

The report further outlines TikTok’s approach to digital safety and user wellbeing. The platform combines AI-based detection systems with human moderation to enforce community guidelines and limit harmful content. It also invests in digital literacy and wellbeing initiatives tailored to local audiences.

According to the findings, 71% of users believe TikTok is taking meaningful steps to protect their privacy and safety.

As the UAE advances initiatives such as “We the UAE 2031” and the UAE Centennial 2071, the report positions TikTok as an increasingly embedded part of the country’s digital ecosystem, supporting entrepreneurship, creative industries, and inclusive growth ambitions.