Social Sciences and Humanities Open (Jan 2024)
Exploring uses and gratifications of podcasts among young arab audiences
Abstract
This study analyzes podcast consumption patterns among young audiences in the United Arab Emirates, exploring the motivations and engagement of Emirati youth with this burgeoning media form. Utilizing a survey of 400 young participants, this research examines the various gratifications of podcasts, including entertainment, information acquisition, and community interaction. It assesses the use and impact of podcasts across different genres. The findings indicate that podcasts entertain, educate, and foster personal growth among listeners, who appreciate the medium's ability to allow multitasking and its accessibility for content creation. The study extends existing literature on media consumption in the Arab region, particularly among the youth and within the technologically advanced societies of the Gulf. It highlights the dynamic and interactive nature of podcasting that transcends traditional media boundaries, providing a platform for audio-visual content integration and audience feedback.
