TikTok unveiled its UAE Economic Impact Report on the sidelines of the 2026 World Government Summit, outlining the platform’s growing contribution to the country’s digital economy.

Titled The TikTok Effect: Enabling the UAE’s Dynamic Digital Economy, the report reveals that TikTok-enabled small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) added AED 1.1 billion ($299.5 million) to the UAE economy and supported more than 7,000 jobs. The study highlights the platform’s expanding role in entrepreneurship, creative industries, and human capital development.

Developed in partnership with Redseer Strategy Consultants, the report estimates that more than 10,000 SMBs launched their businesses through TikTok, while over 70,000 local SMBs are currently active on the platform.

The findings were announced in the presence of Omar Sultan Al Olama, Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, Digital Economy, and Remote Work Applications. He said the UAE has emerged as a global leader in the digital economy, driven by a forward-looking vision that prioritizes the development of its digital ecosystem and advanced technologies as key pillars of growth.

Al Olama noted that the UAE has built a strong digital and regulatory foundation while fostering a business-friendly entrepreneurial environment. This approach has enabled global platforms to expand their impact and contribute to the growth of the digital economy and creative industries. He added that advanced technologies are central to strengthening competitiveness and enhancing well-being, in line with national development objectives.

Jenan Mohamed Alhashili, Head of Public Policy for the GCC at TikTok, said, “TikTok has evolved from an entertainment platform into a functional layer of the UAE’s digital economy. This report shows that our impact extends beyond the screen, contributing more than AED 1 billion to the economy and supporting thousands of jobs.

“By lowering barriers for Emirati entrepreneurs and showcasing the UAE’s vibrant culture to the world, we are proud to support the nation’s future-ready, innovation-led vision. Whether it is a local brand finding its first customer or a creator building a global career, TikTok is helping drive the real-world economic outcomes that enable the UAE’s growth ambitions.”

The report also underscores TikTok’s influence on the UAE’s creative economy. One in four creators cited the platform as the primary reason they began creating content, with many transitioning from part-time activity into sustainable, income-generating careers across media, fashion, music, and entertainment.

Tourism is another area of impact. According to the report, an estimated 10% of tourist spending is influenced by TikTok. In priority inbound markets such as the UK and the United States, 50% of TikTok users say the platform increased their awareness of the UAE as a travel destination. Among domestic users, 39% report greater awareness of destinations within the country, which influences decisions about attractions, restaurants, and events.

Beyond economic indicators, the platform is also contributing to skills development and social cohesion. The report finds that 26% of users cite learning as their primary reason for using TikTok, while 75% report developing professional skills and 81% report building personal skills. In addition, 79% say the platform motivates them to express and share their cultural identity.

The study highlights TikTok’s focus on digital safety and well-being, combining AI-based detection systems with human moderation to enforce community guidelines. Reflecting these efforts, 71% of users say TikTok is taking meaningful steps to protect their privacy and safety.

As the UAE advances long-term strategies such as We the UAE 2031 and UAE Centennial 2071, the report positions TikTok as an increasingly integrated part of the country’s digital ecosystem, shaping both online engagement and measurable economic outcomes.