تأثير تقنيات الواقع المعزز AR والواقع الافتراضي VR على تجربة التسوق في السعودية

Sahl Monday,06 Oct 2025

Online shopping in Saudi Arabia is no longer just a matter of "adding a product to the cart and paying." Today, thanks to augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies, customers can experience a shopping experience closer to reality than ever before. They can try on a product, see it in their environment, and even imagine it in their home before purchasing it. These technologies have completely changed the concept of digital shopping, ushering Saudi e-stores into a new era of creativity and interaction.
1. What is meant by augmented reality and virtual reality?
Augmented reality (AR) is the integration of digital elements with a real environment—such as seeing a product displayed on a mobile phone as if it were actually in your room.
Virtual reality (VR) is a fully digital environment that the user enters through special glasses, experiencing the shopping experience as if they were in a physical store.
The two combined have opened new horizons for e-commerce in the Kingdom.
2. The shopping experience has become closer to reality
Before these technologies, customers relied on images and written descriptions. Today, using AR, customers can view furniture in their home in 3D before purchasing it, or try on sunglasses using a camera. This type of interaction gives customers greater confidence in their purchasing decision and reduces the hesitation many online shoppers face.
3. Saudi Stores' Interest in New Technologies
Many Saudi stores have already begun implementing augmented reality technologies on their websites and apps. For example, some furniture and decor stores offer the "Try the Product in Your Room" feature, and fashion stores allow virtual try-on of clothes. All of this aims to improve the customer experience and reduce return rates, as customers see exactly what they are buying before paying.
4. Supporting Vision 2030 for Digital Transformation
The Kingdom's Vision 2030 encourages the adoption of modern technologies and the development of digital experiences. With the expansion of the e-commerce market in Saudi Arabia, augmented and virtual reality have become part of future plans to improve the quality of the shopping experience and raise consumer satisfaction. The government has supported digital transformation by improving the technical infrastructure and encouraging local companies to innovate in this field.
5. Increased Customer-Store Interaction
Imagine entering a Saudi online store that uses VR. You walk through the departments, glimpse the products, and hear the salesperson's voice welcoming you. This is a completely different experience than traditional shopping. The customer feels as if they are in a real world, resulting in greater interaction and a longer time spent in the store—precisely what any brand wants.
6. Challenges Facing the Implementation of Technology
Despite all the advantages, implementing AR and VR technologies requires high costs and advanced technologies. Some small stores face difficulties in implementing these systems due to their high cost. However, with time and lower prices, the technology will become available to everyone. This is where Saudi software companies come in, offering innovative solutions at reasonable prices that help stores transform smarter without huge costs.
7. The Future of Shopping in Saudi Arabia
The coming years will witness a revolution in the online shopping experience. We will see stores offering virtual tours, 3D interactive experiences, and live demonstrations using augmented reality. These technologies not only attract customers, but also build long-term loyalty because the experience has become enjoyable and full of realistic details.
In short, augmented and virtual reality technologies have transformed e-commerce in Saudi Arabia, transforming it from a "digital shopping" experience to a "real-life" one. With the support of Vision 2030, the Saudi market is rapidly moving toward a smarter and more interactive shopping future. Those who begin adopting these technologies today will be future leaders in the world of e-commerce.