A recent YouGov survey reveals that an overwhelming majority of UAE residents plan to follow the Paris 2024 Olympics through online streaming channels and social media, highlighting a shift in viewing preferences for major sporting events.
Survey Insights:
- Online Streaming and Social Media: Nearly half (49%) of UAE residents intend to watch the Olympics on online streaming channels, while 48% will follow updates on social media.
- Traditional TV: Slightly fewer, at 46%, plan to watch the games on TV.
- Public Venues and News Outlets: A quarter of respondents plan to watch at sports bars or other broadcasting venues, 21% will stay updated through newspapers or news sites, and 11% intend to catch the action live in Paris.
Demographic Preferences:
- Gender Differences: Men are more likely to use online streaming (53% of men vs. 39% of women), while women prefer social media updates (55% of women vs. 46% of men).
- Age Groups: Adults aged 35-44 are most likely to follow on social media (55%), whereas those above 55 prefer watching on TV (73%).
Reasons for Watching:
- Event Excitement: The primary reason for watching is the excitement of the event, followed by the desire to support the country’s athletes and national pride.
- Athletic Feats: One-third of respondents (34%) tune in to witness the performances of participating athletes.
- Avoiding FOMO: About 30% watch to avoid missing out on a global event, and nearly 23% do so because their friends and family are watching.
This shift in viewing preferences underscores the growing importance of digital platforms in consuming live sporting events and highlights the diverse ways in which audiences engage with global spectacles.
