A Decade of Growth: Platinumlist’s Journey in Saudi Arabia’s Entertainment Scene
The Saudi entertainment market has transformed beyond recognition over the past decade, and Platinumlist has been privileged to be part of this incredible journey. Since establishing a presence in the Kingdom 10 years ago, we have witnessed and actively contributed to the dynamic evolution of live events in Saudi Arabia. From pioneering mobile ticketing solutions to supporting some of the largest cultural and entertainment initiatives, Platinumlist’s commitment to the Kingdom’s vision has remained steadfast and purposeful.
Reflecting on this journey, Moayad Al-Tayeb, Senior Business Development Manager at Platinumlist, shares his perspective: “The Saudi entertainment market is one of the most dynamic and promising in the region, and Platinumlist is incredibly proud to have been part of this vibrant journey for over a decade. Since entering the Kingdom 10 years ago, we have invested over SAR 105 million in human capital and technology, a testament to our deep belief in the potential of Saudi Arabia’s vision and people.”
Being part of this transformative era goes beyond business for Platinumlist—it’s a commitment to the growth of a nation we proudly call home. As Moayad Al-Tayeb emphasizes, “Being part of this transformative era is not just a business opportunity—it’s a privilege and a patriotic commitment to the growth of a nation we proudly call home.”
By combining local insights with cutting-edge solutions, Platinumlist has actively supported Saudi Arabia’s rapid evolution into a global entertainment hub. Our commitment to the market goes beyond business—it’s about being an integral part of a transformative vision and building lasting partnerships that shape the Kingdom’s cultural and economic future.
Building a Legacy in Saudi Arabia
Our story in Saudi Arabia began with a bold vision: to make live event experiences more accessible, engaging, and dynamic. Over the past decade, we’ve grown from a local operation into a nationwide presence, powered by two strategic offices and a continually expanding Saudi team. This progress reflects our unwavering commitment to innovation, growth, and partnership.
Since our first ticket sale in the Kingdom, we have collaborated with 300+ organizers and managed ticketing for over 1,500 events. From international mega-festivals to grassroots community initiatives, we’ve played a vital role in supporting Saudi Arabia’s diverse live entertainment scene. Our partnerships with key stakeholders such as the Ministry of Culture, General Entertainment Authority (GEA), and the Royal Commission for Riyadh City underscore our dedication to fostering long-term relationships built on mutual trust and shared ambitions.
Driving Innovation: Setting the Standard in Ticketing
Saudi Arabia wasn’t just a new market for us—it was the birthplace of our most impactful innovations. As the first to launch mobile ticketing and ticket exchange features in the GCC, we set a new standard for event accessibility and convenience. These pioneering solutions were developed with the local market in mind and have since become integral to how audiences engage with live events across the region.
Our proactive approach didn’t stop there. As the entertainment market grew, so did our commitment to meeting new demands. Whether adapting to spontaneous booking trends or implementing mobile-first solutions, we’ve consistently evolved to enhance both the organizer and audience experience. Today, Platinumlist remains at the forefront of event technology, continuously driving progress to meet the needs of a fast-paced, ever-evolving market.
Adapting to a New Era: Saudi Arabia’s Diverse Entertainment Landscape
The Saudi entertainment scene has transformed from a budding market into one of the region’s most dynamic ecosystems. Driven by a young, experience-focused population and the ambitious goals of Vision 2030, the Kingdom has positioned itself as a global hub for live experiences.
In the early days, Arabic pop concerts dominated nearly 100% of public events, reflecting cultural norms and logistical limitations. Today, the landscape is significantly more diverse. Experiential formats like immersive zones and seasonal festivals now make up around 24% of the market, while Arabic music and concerts account for about 23%. Family and cultural events represent 13%, as do youth-focused formats like EDM, anime, and gaming. Business and conferences also make up around 3%.
This shift is more than just a change in genres—it’s a cultural transformation where live entertainment has become part of everyday life rather than an occasional treat. Platinumlist has scaled alongside this momentum. In 2016, we supported just a handful of events, but by 2025, we are on track to surpass 600 events and experiences—an average annual growth rate of 61%.
As audiences continue to seek variety, relevance, and excitement, Platinumlist remains at the forefront by offering versatile ticketing solutions and tailored support, empowering organizers to thrive in a rapidly evolving market.
Understanding Audience Evolution: A Shift in Ticketing Trends
As the entertainment market matured, we noticed a significant change in how audiences buy tickets. Previously, most purchases were made well in advance. Today, spontaneity drives decisions—many attendees buy tickets just days or even hours before an event. This shift reflects a deeper cultural change where live entertainment has become part of the daily routine rather than a rare treat.
To accommodate this new reality, Platinumlist has developed agile, mobile-first ticketing solutions that make last-minute purchases effortless. At the same time, we continue to support ultra-early bookings, catering to superfans and corporate groups eager to secure their spots well in advance. Balancing these trends has been crucial in maintaining audience satisfaction and meeting organizer expectations.
Making Live Events More Accessible
One of the most significant transformations in the Saudi entertainment market is the move from luxury-only experiences to everyday accessibility. Back in 2018, the average ticket price was around 1,400 SAR. Today, it’s closer to 250 SAR. This dramatic shift reflects an industry that has evolved to serve diverse demographics, including families, students, and young professionals.
At Platinumlist, we’ve embraced this change by simplifying ticket discovery, enabling flexible payment options, and supporting organizers of all sizes. Live entertainment in Saudi Arabia is no longer an occasional luxury—it’s part of everyday life. We’re proud to have contributed to making events more accessible and inclusive for everyone.
The Road Ahead: Committed to Saudi Arabia’s Vision
As Saudi Arabia continues its transformative journey toward Vision 2030, Platinumlist remains dedicated to supporting and leading the entertainment sector’s growth. Our commitment goes beyond just offering ticketing solutions—we aim to be a strategic partner in shaping the future of live experiences in the Kingdom.
Looking ahead, we will continue investing in local talent, developing new technologies, and fostering long-term relationships that reflect our belief in the potential of Saudi Arabia. Our goal is clear: to empower organizers, enhance audience experiences, and contribute meaningfully to the Kingdom’s cultural renaissance.
Let’s shape the future of Saudi entertainment together.
For more information on how Platinumlist can support your next event, visit Platinumlist for Organisers
