Have you ever wondered how Arab influencers are faring in the Chinese market? With the increasing popularity of social media platforms, Arab influencers in China have a unique opportunity to tap into a new and unexplored audience.
The current landscape shows that few Arab influencers have gained a significant following in China.
If you match the current need, you can meet ample room for growth and success.
So, what topics and locations can Arab influencers focus on to capture the interest of Chinese audiences?
Let’s dive in.
How Are Arab Influencers Doing in China
Given the rich cultural exchange between China and the Arab world, one might expect a thriving community of Arab influencers in China. However, the reality is quite different.
An analysis of popular social media platforms in China reveals that only a handful of Arab influencers have managed to gain a sizeable following. Those who have managed to gain a following often focus on sharing their daily lives in Arab countries, offering glimpses into the local culture, and introducing various attractions, restaurants, and shopping experiences.
However, many of these influencers have not yet fully grasped the preferences and interests of their Chinese audience. Such a gap has limited their reach and impact in China.
Despite these limitations, the few Arab influencers who have managed to establish a following in China have demonstrated the potential for success in this market. The key to this success lies in understanding Chinese consumers’ unique interests and preferences. The key is to tailor content to cater to those needs.
Fun Fact: China Loves Qatar with the “Dumpling Prince”
During the World Cup in Qatar, the 16-year old Qatari Prince made viral on Chinese social media.
When he appeared on television with his traditional Qatari headdress, Chinese soccer fans loved his expression. They compared him with the World Cup mascot and affectionately called him “dumpling wrapper prince”. Some fans even said on Weibo: “We love him because he is so cute”.
The prince Abdulrahman Fahad al-Thani was surprised and amused by this novel. Right after, he launched a Douyin account saying to his Chinese fans “Ni hao. Hello. This is my message for all of my Chinese friends. Thank you so much for all your support”. His account gained 15 million followers in less than a week.
The Arab world is most interesting than ever in China. Especially after the Qatari royal family shared video saying that Chinese travellers are welcomed anytime to Qatar and the country will make sure to welcome them as an excellent host. A gesture highly appreciated by Chinese netizens.
Arab influencers can make a meaningful impact on the Chinese social media landscape today.
They can carve out a niche for themselves among the myriad of content creators.
Top Social Media for Arab Influencers in China
To succeed in China’s dynamic social media landscape, Arab influencers must select the right platforms that cater to their target audience and content.
Here is what you can dive into:
- Weibo. This social media similar to Twitter is an excellent choice for celebrities or public figures looking to build their reputation and engage with Chinese fans on a more official way.
- Bilibili. The YouTube equivalent is a popular platform for content creators who produce high-quality videos, making it a perfect choice for Arab YouTubers and vlog creators.
- Xiaohongshu or Little Red Book. This social media, often compared to Instagram and Pinterest, is a leading platform for fashion and lifestyle influencers, targeting a wide range of female audiences.
- Douyin. This is the Chinese version of TikTok, which offers a wide range of possibilities for short video content creators and viral video content to capitalize on.
However, it is crucial to note that WeChat, China’s most extensive social media platform, may not be the best choice for personal branding. Its primary function is daily communication, and launching an account on WeChat may not yield the desired results for influencers looking to build their online reputation.
If you want more tips about personal branding and crisis management, you can read our definitive guide here.
Top Strategies for Arab Influencers in China
It’s no secret that content localization is the key to succeed in China.
Here are the 5 tips to localize your content and attract the right audience to meet success in China:
- The “Local Guide” Marketing Technique
- The Arabic Culture Viral Content
- The Special Events Display
- The Right Audience Analysis
- The Local Knowledge Value
1. Be Their Local Guide on Social Media
With over 1.75 million Chinese tourists visiting Dubai in 2019 and a projected increase to 2 million by 2023, Arab influencers can capitalize on this growing interest by showcasing various aspects of life in different Arab cities. They can explore popular attractions such as:
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Dubai Mall
- And many more…
They are the most viral locations on Chinese social media at the moment.
If you use the “Local Guide” marketing technique at its best, you should also recommend lesser-known places that Chinese tourists may see as a treasure. You do not only act as a regular influencer posting regular content but as a friend and a guide for all your local fans.
2. The Arabic Culture is a Gold Mine
Another area to consider is the unique culture and lifestyle of the Arab world.
Influencers can introduce Chinese audiences to authentic Arab cuisine, traditional clothing, and local customs that are not commonly known in China. The example mentioned earlier with the Qatari prince shows how curious the Chinese people were to discover the history behind the Qatari headdress.
Additionally, influencers can provide valuable insights into the luxury lifestyle and experiences available in Arab cities like Dubai, from sky restaurants to seven-star hotels like the Burj Al Arab.
3. Special Events That are Not Common in China
Arab influencers can discuss various activities that are either unique to the region or not easily accessible in China.
The most viral content about the Arab world also includes unique activities and surprising spots. The most common examples of this type of content on Xiaohongshu and on Douyin is:
- Skydiving
- Desert Surfing
- Camel Riding
- And many more…
Offering insights into these activities and sharing their experiences can help Arab influencers connect with their Chinese audience on a deeper level. They do not only promote their personal branding but also their country’s richness.
4. Identify Your Right Audience with What They Care
Those who want to enter Chinese social media should also be aware of the different types of Chinese tourists who travel to Dubai, as their preferences and travel patterns vary.
There are three primary groups of Chinese tourists:
- The Wealthy
- The Middle Class
- The Budget-conscious
For example, wealthy Chinese tourists may be interested in luxury shopping experiences, exclusive dining at high-end restaurants, and extravagant accommodations at prestigious hotels. Middle-class tourists might prioritize unique cultural experiences and sightseeing opportunities, while budget-conscious travelers could be searching for affordable yet memorable experiences in Dubai and other Arab cities.
Catering to the specific interests and needs of each group can enable Arab influencers create content that resonates with a broader audience.
5. Useful Knowledge of Local Value
Arab influencers should also consider discussing practical information that would be useful for Chinese tourists, such as the cost of living in Dubai, local customs and traditions, and even suggested gifts to buy. This kind of content can prove invaluable for Chinese tourists planning their visit and can help establish the influencer as a trusted source of information.
The most viral Arab-related content on Little Red Book right now includes Arab influencers and Chinese influencers living in Dubai. Both are sharing their daily life and practical tips, whether they come as tourists or workers to get a new life. The value behind the content shared is making the most having a longer time existence.
BONUS TIP
Seizing Opportunities in a Blue Ocean Market
The Chinese market offers a vast, untapped potential for Arab influencers, particularly given the current lack of competition on Chinese social media platforms. By strategically selecting the right platform and focusing on topics that are attractive to Chinese audiences, Arab influencers can successfully establish a strong presence in China and enjoy the benefits of the “Blue Ocean” market.
To achieve success in the Chinese market, here are the tips on your progress:
- Analyze the current landscape and identify gaps in the market, as there are very few Arab influencers with a significant fan base on Chinese social media platforms.
- Choose the right social media platform based on your target audience and the type of content you produce.
- Focus on topics and locations that Chinese audiences are interested in, such as popular attractions in Dubai, unique cultural experiences, luxury lifestyle options, and practical information for tourists.
Let ECHO Walk You Into the Chinese Market
Collaborate with ECHO, the influencer marketing agency in China. With 5+ years of experience in China and offices located in Paris and Shenzhen, we help you break into the dynamic Chinese social media landscape.
Our comprehensive knowledge of the Chinese market equips us to guide you in navigating cultural nuances and building a strong online presence. With our 360° services, we’ll develop tailored strategies focused on maximizing your reach and impact.