A Critical Analysis of Netflix and Binge Watching in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

New digital technologies and the Internet have changed the television industry and how viewers experience watching, leading more people to watch streaming video. Netflix is among the world’s dominant streaming services and has played a significant role in transforming the concept of television and watching habits. Netflix uses binge watching to display its content and promote itself. The company releases whole seasons at once, which allows for binge watching. This study is aimed at finding to what extent Netflix and binge watching have affected Saudi young adults. Our argument has two main points. First, we argue that Netflix is one of the most consumed streaming services in Saudi Arabia but faces some challenges to understand the cultural differences and the tastes of Saudi viewers. Second, we argue that binge watching only Netflix can negatively affect Saudis’ entertainment culture and experience of time. We conclude that Netflix faces misunderstandings of the regional culture and needs, and binge watching might affect Saudis’ practice of worship and family gatherings. Future research should validate the conclusions drawn from this study.