The Impact of Social Media on Saudi Cultural Identity: Applied Study on the Population of the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This dissertation examined the influence of social media on Saudi cultural identity. It used a descriptive methodology by surveying 242 people in the Eastern Province of Saudi Arabia and interviewing ten specialists. The main objective was to examine how social media affects Saudi cultural values and traditions. According to other studies, social media helps preserve culture and promotes foreign values that could conflict with regional rules. Most participants in this study agreed that social media had influenced Saudi cultural identity by disseminating novel habits and rituals. The main positive results were promoting tourism and eliminating cultural stereotypes about Saudi Arabia. Social media has brought unfamiliar events like Halloween and New Year parties and new phenomena such as imitating social media celebrities. The ease of social media's reach and use, lack of control, and social engagement in social media applications are crucial elements that make it possible to have cultural consequences. The recommendations emphasised heritage advocacy, cultural education for youth, parental supervision of children's media use, and government actions to police inappropriate online content. Although social media has affected Saudi culture, this dissertation showed that efforts made in unison between individuals, schools, and governments can reduce dangers and maximise the advantages of the impact of social media on Saudi cultural identity.