For the first time, creators from all over the region came together in Riyadh in September for the TikTok Creator Summit. The event provided a platform for creators to exchange insights on content strategy, explore new formats like longer videos, discuss emerging trends, and learn from their peers. Creators also had the opportunity to debunk common myths about the platform and explore TikTok’s monetization tools, all aimed at enhancing their success. The summit featured a dynamic lineup of panels, workshops, and performances designed to both inspire and educate participants.
Hosted by acclaimed Saudi actor and TV personality Faisal Alzahrani, the summit set the stage for the region’s creative talent to exchange ideas and build new connections. Attendees were treated to a live performance by renowned musical artist Eisa Abdulla, which served as an artistic highlight and celebration of the region’s diverse talent.
The summit’s sessions offered creators valuable insights on enhancing their content and expanding their audience. A standout panel featured popular creators Khalid Al Ameri one of the top content creators in the region, and Noel Robinson, a globally renowned dancer with 41 million followers. Together, they shared their experiences in content creation and audience engagement, offering practical advice on resonating with diverse viewers. TikTok’s Head of Creator, Haya Barghout, also weighed in, discussing strategies for building a strong presence and creating meaningful community connections.
The summit culminated with an exploration of TikTok’s monetization tools, showcasing how creators across the region have turned their passion into sustainable income streams. Programs like TikTok Creator Marketplace (TTCM) and TikTok Live not only offer immediate earning potential but also empower creators to build long-term careers, engaging their audience while creating lasting value through their content.
Kinda Ibrahim, TikTok’s Regional General Manager of Operations in the Middle East, Turkey, Africa, Pakistan and South Asia, said: “We are thrilled to host the TikTok MENA Creator Summit in Riyadh this year, where we celebrate the remarkable creativity that defines our community.” She adds “Being a content creator today is about so much more than just making videos; creators inspire, connect, and entertain across generations and borders, shaping culture and sparking trends. It’s also about enjoying the process and sharing your passions with the world which is why we remain dedicated to making TikTok a platform where creators have the support they need throughout their entire journey, empowering them to succeed in every aspect.”
Following the creator summit and showcasing how the platform supports the wider creative community, TikTok engaged with partners hosting sessions featuring a panel led by CAF’s Head of Communications alongside the TikTok team. The discussion explored the balance between creativity and guidelines from a partner’s perspective, highlighting practical tools for safeguarding assets and expanding reach. The session also covered discussed copyright content, protecting intellectual property, and leveraging key cultural moments to create content opportunities on the platform. Complementing these insights, presentation titled “The Evolution of #WhatToWatch” provided attendees with insights on how MBC Group, and WatchIt are using TikTok to successfully scale their influence internationally, with actionable strategies shared to help creators replicate this success.
The TikTok Summit in Riyadh marked an exciting milestone for the region’s creative community, fostering an environment where talent, innovation, and collaboration flourished. As TikTok continues to evolve, the platform remains dedicated to providing creators and the community with the tools, knowledge, and support needed to thrive in the ever-changing digital landscape. By empowering creators to connect, learn, and grow, TikTok is not only shaping the future of content creation but also strengthening the creative ecosystem across MENA.
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