Technology and Security are Key Drivers of Saudi Arabian Small Business Success, reveals GoDaddy’s 2024 Global Entrepreneurship Survey
GoDaddy data shows that technology adoption and enhanced security measures are essential for small businesses’ growth and competitiveness.
JEDDAH — As small business owners continue to adapt to digital demands, GoDaddy’s 2024 Global Entrepreneurship Survey highlights the growing importance of digital tools for small businesses and the need for stronger cybersecurity measures to help ensure long-term sustainability and competitiveness.
Technology as an Enabler of Growth
The survey results underscored the critical role that technology plays in enabling small businesses to grow and compete. Ninety-nine percent of Saudi entrepreneurs reported that digitization is a key competitive advantage.
Furthermore, 97% of respondents reported that digitization has significantly improved their work processes, and 98% recognized that combining online and offline sales is crucial for business success.
These statistics illustrate a widespread adoption of digital solutions to improve customer interaction and operational efficiency as they become increasingly integrated into everyday operations. Saudi entrepreneurs reported they most frequently use digital invoicing (96%), customer service tools (96%), and email notifications (93%) to communicate with customers and operate their businesses.
Additionally, with more small businesses adopting digital solutions, 61% of Saudi small business owners currently use customer relationship management (CRM) systems to track and manage customer interactions, representing a significant opportunity to enhance customer engagement further.
Digital Investments for the Future
Looking ahead, small business owners are preparing to further invest in digital solutions to drive growth. In 2024, 96% of Saudi entrepreneurs planned to increase their investment in online sales and marketing, reflecting a clear trend toward leveraging digital channels for business expansion.
“GoDaddy continues to serve as a champion of small businesses in the ever-evolving digital ecosystem, providing digital solutions and expert guides to entrepreneurs to start and grow a business, build a professional website, attract customers, and sell their products or services. With its robust suite of online tools, GoDaddy is making opportunity more inclusive for all and supporting small businesses on their digital journeys,” said Selina Bieber, Vice President for International Markets at GoDaddy.
Security: Accelerating Awareness for Small Businesses
As Saudi entrepreneurs continue to adopt digital solutions, cybersecurity has also become an area of increased awareness. The survey found that Saudi entrepreneurs recognize the importance of having online security protections in place. 92% of small business owners report they feel they are appropriately prepared to face a cyberattack, most commonly taking preventative measures, such as installing antivirus software (69%) and regularly backing up data (63%). Additionally, 19% of those who have suffered a cyberattack believe it significantly impacted their small business.
However, there are still further steps that small business owners can take to help decrease their vulnerability to a cyberattack—43% implement firewalls, and 35% use encryption software. These additional protections can help protect a business’s digital assets further.
As small businesses embrace digitalization, GoDaddy’s survey shows that Saudi Arabian entrepreneurs are confident in adopting new digital solutions to improve customer interaction and operational efficiency. GoDaddy empowers small businesses by providing the necessary technology, resources, and support to grow and compete in the digital landscape.
