How ‘BookTok’ is redefining reading for a new generation of Saudis

Beyond social media hype, the growth of book fairs reflects the Ministry of Culture’s strategy and efforts to raise awareness about the importance reading has on the quality of life. (SPA)
Beyond social media hype, the growth of book fairs reflects the Ministry of Culture’s strategy and efforts to raise awareness about the importance reading has on the quality of life. (SPA)
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Updated 17 January 2025
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How ‘BookTok’ is redefining reading for a new generation of Saudis

How ‘BookTok’ is redefining reading for a new generation of Saudis
  • Popularity of books on social media app is driving publishing trends
  • Authors are adapting their work to get views, says one commenter

RIYADH: While TikTok is often criticized for minimizing attention spans with its fast-paced content, the social media platform’s “BookTok” community has sparked renewed interest in reading among young adults in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Described by The New York Times as a “best-seller machine,” BookTok has become a global phenomenon.

The platform has emerged as a virtual book club, where readers connect to share recommendations and discuss their favorite titles — especially in genres like romance, fiction, and thrillers.




Sales in this genre increased by 8.5 percent in 2022, followed by an additional 1 percent rise in 2023. (SPA)

Arab News spoke to a number of authors and content creators who described how the social media trend is driving book sales and reshaping the local publishing industry.

Mohammed Al-Ashaari is a young reader who regularly shares book recommendations and discussions on his TikTok account.

The platform’s fast-paced nature prioritizes aesthetically pleasing content that can be shared in bite-sized clips, and Al-Ashaari spoke about how this algorithm is changing reading habits.

BookTok has brought about significant changes in how people read novels, as the reading trends within the BookTok community are constantly evolving, and with each trend, a new way or habit of reading emerges

Mohammed Al-Ashaari, TikTok user

“BookTok has brought about significant changes in how people read novels, as the reading trends within the BookTok community are constantly evolving, and with each trend, a new way or habit of reading emerges,” he said.

Al-Ashaari explained that this impact was not only limited to readers on the platform but also extended to authors, influencing how they approach their writing and adapt their work to fit the tastes and interests of the platform’s active community.




The BookTok community emerged on TikTok during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and its impact on publishing is undeniable, with authors and publishers seeing remarkable sales growth. (SPA)

He added that the most trending genres on BookTok are fantasy, science fiction, and horror: “Books that gain the most engagement tend to be in these genres, which has led many authors to shift their focus on popular categories.”

The BookTok community emerged on TikTok during the COVID-19 lockdowns, and its impact on publishing is undeniable, with authors and publishers seeing remarkable sales growth.

This impact is especially notable in how it has affected book sales and author engagement.

A report by the US-based retail tracking service Circana revealed that TikTok has significantly influenced book sales in the US, particularly in the adult fiction category.

Sales in this genre increased by 8.5 percent in 2022, followed by an additional 1 percent rise in 2023. Other genres, such as dystopian, romance, and thriller, also witnessed notable growth during this period.

Yasmina Al-Mutabagani, the Saudi author of “Beyond the Surface,” said BookTok has played a significant role in boosting the sales of her latest novel, which explores the story of two strangers who form an unexpected connection during a pandemic.

“I did paid ads multiple times on a video I posted that talked about my book; however, at that time, I didn’t think it was going to be that effective. After a while, I went to Jarir Bookstore, and the man told me it was sold out in multiple branches,” she said.

Al-Mutabagani highlighted BookTok’s broader influence on the literary world. “There’s a positive impact on literature and publishing because BookTok offers advice on writing in general, how to publish your book, how to find a literary agent, and it can be useful in promoting your book if you’re an author,” she said.

Kendah Jambi, a Saudi author of the fantasy novel “Al-Rahala,” said that many attendees at Saudi book fairs recognized her from TikTok’s BookTok.

Her novel follows a group of people called Al-Rahala, or nomads, who possess the ability to shift realities and travel through the multiverse.

Jambi emphasized the importance of building a connection between authors and readers. “Interaction between author and reader is often underrated. It’s very important for readers to be genuinely interested in the author as a person to maintain their interest in the books,” she said.

She further elaborated on the impact of BookTok, adding, “BookTok definitely helped readers express their opinions, which is valuable to the author on both an emotional and constructive level.”

 


Saudi Interior Ministry establishes General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes

Saudi Interior Ministry establishes General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes
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Saudi Interior Ministry establishes General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes

Saudi Interior Ministry establishes General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes
  • Department was set up after a directive from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman
  • It aims to eliminate crimes by dismantling criminal networks in coordination with local and international authorities

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Interior established the General Department for Community Security and Combating Human Trafficking Crimes on Thursday to further ensure the public safety.

The newly established body will be linked to the General Directorate of Public Security, following a directive from Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The ministry said that the department aims to combat crimes that infringe on personal rights, violate fundamental freedoms under Islamic Shariah laws, or undermine individual dignity.

It also aims to eliminate crimes by dismantling criminal networks in coordination with local and international authorities, the SPA added.


Saudi counter-narcotics authorities thwart drug smuggling attempts in several regions

Saudi counter-narcotics authorities thwart drug smuggling attempts in several regions
Updated 37 min 2 sec ago
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Saudi counter-narcotics authorities thwart drug smuggling attempts in several regions

Saudi counter-narcotics authorities thwart drug smuggling attempts in several regions
  • Border Guard seized 100 kg of hallucinogenic khat leaves, valued at approximately $5,300
  • In Jizan, authorities arrested a gang of Yemeni nationals for smuggling khat

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s counter-narcotics authorities thwarted drug smuggling and dealing attempts, including of hashish, khat, and methamphetamine, in various cities on Thursday.

The General Directorate of Border Guard arrested an Ethiopian citizen for attempting to smuggle 49,350 tablets of unlicensed medical pills in the Red Sea region of Asir, located in southwest Saudi Arabia.

The Border Guard thwarted another smuggling attempt in Asir, which borders Yemen, where they seized 100 kg of hallucinogenic khat leaves, valued at approximately $5,300.

In Jizan, located in the southwest of the Kingdom, authorities arrested a gang of Yemeni nationals for smuggling 5.5 kg of hashish and 30 kg of khat; in another incident, they seized 108 kg of khat.

In Dammam in the eastern region, the General Directorate of Mujahideen arrested a Saudi citizen for selling the toxic methamphetamine drug known locally as Al-Shabu.

Drug smuggling is a serious crime in Saudi Arabia. It is punishable by up to 15 years in prison, along with 50 lashes and a fine for first-time offenders involved in smuggling, consuming or marketing drugs. However, individuals who repeatedly commit this crime may face the death penalty, according to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control.

Security authorities urged the public to report drug smuggling or selling by calling 911 in Makkah, Riyadh and the Eastern Province, or 999 in other regions.

Reports can also be made to the General Directorate of Narcotics Control at 995 or via email at [email protected]. All information will remain strictly confidential.


Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award established to strengthen Saudi-China cultural ties

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award established to strengthen Saudi-China cultural ties
Updated 13 February 2025
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Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award established to strengthen Saudi-China cultural ties

Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award established to strengthen Saudi-China cultural ties
  • Special launch, social event in Riyadh

RIYADH: The Prince Mohammed bin Salman Award for Cultural Cooperation between Saudi Arabia and China was launched at a special cultural and social event in Riyadh on Wednesday, the Saudi Press Agency reported.

The event was held with the support of Prince Badr bin Abdullah bin Farhan, the minister of culture and the chairman of the award’s board of trustees.

It highlighted the award’s objectives, categories, and various initiatives designed to enhance cultural collaboration between Riyadh and Beijing.

Faisal bin Abdulrahman bin Muaammar, the deputy chairman of the board of trustees, was also in attendance.

The deputy chairman emphasized the significance of the award — which bears the name of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman — as a symbol of the relationship between Saudi Arabia and China, one of cultural interaction, strengthening ties and enriching cross-cultural exchanges.

He added that Saudi Vision 2030 placed a strong emphasis on cultural openness — aligning seamlessly with China’s Belt and Road Initiative — which seeks to enhance global connectivity.

The award, he said, reflected a new era of cultural cooperation to drive mutual development and prosperity for both nations.


Saudi Arabia condemns two suicide attacks in Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia condemned and denounced on Thursday two separate suicide attacks that took place in Afghanistan recently. File/AFP)
Saudi Arabia condemned and denounced on Thursday two separate suicide attacks that took place in Afghanistan recently.(File/AFP)
Updated 13 February 2025
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Saudi Arabia condemns two suicide attacks in Afghanistan

Saudi Arabia condemned and denounced on Thursday two separate suicide attacks that took place in Afghanistan recently. File/AFP)
  • Foreign Ministry statement reiterated the Kingdom’s categorical rejection of the terrorist acts, and its support for the Afghan people against all forms of violence

RIYADH: Saudi Arabia condemned and denounced on Thursday two separate suicide attacks that took place in Afghanistan recently.

In the first attack, a suicide bomber attacked the front of a bank in the northern city of Kunduz on Tuesday, killing eight people. Daesh later claimed the bombing, saying it was targeting Taliban government employees collecting salaries.

In the second attack, a person was killed and at least three wounded in a suicide attack on the Afghan ministry of urban development and housing on Thursday.

A Foreign Ministry statement reiterated the Kingdom’s categorical rejection of the terrorist acts, and its support for the Afghan people against all forms of violence, terrorism and extremism.

The statement also expressed the Kingdom’s condolences to the families of the victims and the Afghan people, wishing the injured a speedy recovery.


Riyadh leads national tally with 21 mm of rainfall

Riyadh leads national tally with 21 mm of rainfall
Updated 13 February 2025
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Riyadh leads national tally with 21 mm of rainfall

Riyadh leads national tally with 21 mm of rainfall
  • Riyadh region records highest precipitation of 21 mm in Alqah, Zulfi governorate
  • Qassim region reported significant rainfall, with Dukhnah in Al-Rass measuring 11 mm

RIYADH: The Saudi Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture reported on Thursday that six regions across Saudi Arabia experienced rainfall, with Riyadh region recording the highest precipitation of 21 mm in Alqah, Zulfi governorate.

According to the ministry’s daily meteorological report, 52 hydrological and climate monitoring stations tracked precipitation across the Kingdom. Rainfall was recorded in Riyadh, Makkah, Madinah, Qassim, Eastern Region, and Al-Baha.

In the Riyadh region, Rawdat Al-Sabla in Zulfi recorded 7.5 mm, while Al-Rayyan district in Al-Dawadmi measured 7.1 mm. Other notable readings included Kharoub farms in Shaqra at 6 mm, Al-Majmaah train station at 4.8 mm, and Arja in Al-Dawadmi at 4.6 mm.

Qassim region reported significant rainfall, with Dukhnah in Al-Rass measuring 11 mm, Buraidah 8.6 mm, and Riyadh Al-Khabra 8 mm. The Eastern Region saw precipitation levels of 9.6 mm at Al-Olaya metro station, 9 mm in Khafji, 4.6 mm at the Naval Forces Airport in Jubail, and 3.8 mm at the Border Guard station in Ruqi, Hafar Al-Batin.

The Makkah region’s Saja Reserve in Al-Muwayh recorded 9.2 mm, while Raniah received 2.2 mm. Madinah region registered 1.4 mm in Al-Hisu, Al-Hinakiyah, and Al-Baha region’s Shada in Al-Makhwah recorded 0.6 mm.