YouTube is one of the most popular social media platforms in the Middle East, with a large and growing user base. Here’s a breakdown of YouTube’s rank and popularity in the region:

1. User numbers:
According to a 2020 report by We Are Social and Hootsuite, YouTube is the second most popular social media platform in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, after Facebook. The report estimates that there are over 168 million YouTube users in the MENA region, with the highest numbers in Egypt, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

2. Engagement:
YouTube is also one of the most engaging social media platforms in the region, with users spending an average of 63 minutes per day on the platform, according to the same report. This high level of engagement makes YouTube a valuable platform for businesses looking to reach new audiences and build brand awareness.

3. Content consumption:
YouTube is particularly popular among younger age groups in the Middle East, with a 2020 survey by Google finding that 92% of internet users aged 18-24 in Saudi Arabia and the UAE use the platform. YouTube’s popularity among younger audiences makes it a valuable tool for businesses looking to target this demographic with their marketing and advertising efforts.

4. Content creation:
YouTube is also a popular platform for content creators in the Middle East, with a growing number of influencers and YouTubers building large followings and monetizing their content. This presents opportunities for brands to collaborate with influencers and leverage their audiences to reach new customers.

Overall, YouTube’s popularity and engagement in the Middle East make it a valuable platform for businesses looking to build their online presence and reach new audiences. However, as with any social media platform, it’s important to understand the unique preferences and behaviours of the platform’s users in order to create effective and engaging content.