Saudi Gen Z: Navigating Tradition and Modernity

Saudi Arabia’s Gen Z stands at the crossroads of tradition and modernity, redefining cultural norms and reshaping their nation's identity amid rapid societal change.

In a rapidly transforming Saudi Arabia, Gen Z navigates the delicate intersection of cultural heritage and modernity, reshaping societal norms and national identity with a blend of tradition and innovation. As someone who has observed Saudi society's evolution firsthand, I find the stories of young Saudis today especially compelling. This generation is not just adapting; they’re redefining what it means to be Saudi, balancing family expectations with aspirations shaped by the country’s evolving landscape. Their journey is deeply personal yet reflects a broader social transformation, combining resilience with a redefined sense of self. 

Family Values and Individual Ambitions

Family has always been the cornerstone of Saudi life, and for many young Saudis, respecting family values feels as natural as breathing. Yet, Gen Z faces a balance that previous generations never had to consider: how to stay true to tradition while pursuing dreams that may lead them in entirely new directions.

A 2023 report by PwC reflects this tension, showing how Saudi youth are prepared to drive sustainable development in the region while also staying mindful of their heritage. Layan, a 21-year-old art student, shared, “As much as I want to pursue something unique, like graphic design, I still have to consider my family’s expectations.” This delicate balancing act shows that it’s possible to honor tradition while venturing into uncharted territories.

Evolving Opportunities for Youth

Reform initiatives have opened doors to careers once considered unconventional, legitimizing fields like arts, technology, and entrepreneurship. For young Saudis, this is both progress and a daily balancing act between opportunity and the weight of cultural expectations.

Fares, a 19-year-old engineering student, described this sense of responsibility: “We’re expected to not only benefit from new opportunities but also be part of building our future.” This readiness to contribute underscores the resilience of today’s youth. As detailed in the Arab Youth Survey 2024, 76% of Saudi youth see themselves as key players in shaping a modern Saudi identity while remaining deeply proud of their heritage.

Lifestyle Choices: Redefining Identity

Lifestyle choices are another frontier where individualism meets the collective spirit. Modest fashion, for example, is growing at over 25% annually in Saudi Arabia, blending global trends with local norms. Ahmed, a 22-year-old street-style photographer, captures this perfectly. “You want to be unique but respectful,” he said. Seeing Ahmed pair a thobe with sneakers exemplifies how young Saudis merge individuality with tradition. On social platforms like TikTok and Instagram, this fusion is becoming a visual language that showcases their unique identity. As highlighted in Old MeetsNew in Saudi Arabia’s Cultural Evolution, social media is a powerful tool that young Saudis use to express and redefine their cultural norms.

Creative Expression and Social Change

Saudi Gen Z is also using creative energy to drive social change. Digital media and the arts are no longer hobbies; they are tools to redefine how Saudis are seen, both locally and globally. The gaming and esports sector, where youth make up 65% of the audience, is a prime example of this shift.

Jana, a 20-year-old filmmaker, shared her passion: “Filmmaking allows me to tell stories that reflect who we are today—strong, creative, and open-minded.” Saudi youth use creativity to bridge tradition and modernity, reshaping the country’s narrative. This theme of youth as stakeholders in Saudi Arabia’s future is discussed in more depth in Youth Is the BiggestStakeholder in Saudi Arabia’s Future.

Tradition as a Compass

Saudi Arabia’s Gen Z isn’t dismissing tradition. Instead, they use it as a guide, blending pride in their cultural heritage with modern aspirations. The 2024 Arab Youth Survey reveals that 83% of Saudi youth are proud of their heritage while also feeling a strong sense of responsibility to shape their nation’s future.

In the end, this generation stands as architects of a Saudi Arabia that honors its past while boldly embracing the future. Their journey is a story of resilience, transformation, and the unique richness they bring to society.

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