The Story Every Young Influencer in Saudi Arabia Should Know

If you're a young content creator, aspiring influencer, or storyteller trying to build your voice in Saudi Arabia, the journey of Tareq Al-Harbi is more than entertainment—it's a masterclass in impact.

Born in Riyadh on June 12, 1990, Tareq began his career hosting the program Salamtak and later appeared on No Big Deal S15 in 2007. His journey from a university graduate in agriculture to one of the Kingdom’s most beloved comedians and presenters is a testament to authenticity, wit, and timing.

What makes Tareq's story especially unique is that he had no formal training in entertainment. He learned by doing—failing, improvising, and adapting in real time. Before he ever stepped onto a studio set, he was already studying the Saudi streets, listening to how people talked, laughed, and lived. That gave his content a raw, relatable edge that even the best producers couldn’t script.

Today, Tareq is one of the most influential entertainers in the Kingdom, with over 11 million Instagram followers, a hit TV show, and global exposure on Netflix. How did he do it? Let’s break it down.

Interview with Tareq Al Harbi

The Power of Finding Your Voice

Tareq Show: Turning Satire Into Influence

Tareq didn’t follow trends. He built his own.

His breakthrough came with “Tareq Show”, a late-night satire program on Rotana Khalijia that used humor to spark real conversations about Saudi life. It wasn’t just funny—it was fearless. He interviewed celebrities, tackled social issues, and did it all in his own voice.

💡 Don’t copy others. Find your format, own your message, and speak like you.

From Local to Global

Netflix’s The Fastest and Going International

In 2021, Tareq became the host of Netflix’s Arabic reality show “The Fastest”, the platform's first Arabic-language unscripted series. The show featured drivers from across the Middle East competing in thrilling races, with Tareq guiding viewers through the action.

The series was available in 190 countries with 31 subtitles, showcasing Tareq's ability to connect with a global audience while staying true to his Saudi roots.

💡You can go global by staying local. The world wants to hear authentic stories.

11 Million Followers—and Still Grounded

Building a Community, Not Just a Following

Tareq isn’t just “posting”—he’s creating conversations.

His Instagram account, @6ar8o, boasts over 11 million followers, where he shares comedic sketches, personal moments, and promotional content. He is also active on Snapchat under the handle o6ar8o.

Every piece of content is a reflection of who he is—relatable, real, and relevant.

💡  Numbers don’t matter as much as connection. Stay honest, and your audience will grow with you.

Behind the Comedy: Purpose, Passion, and Pain

What He Revealed on ABtalks

In his 2022 appearance on ABtalks, one of the region’s most intimate interview shows, Tareq revealed the personal side behind the humor. He spoke about family, failure, childhood dreams, and what it really means to represent a new wave of Saudi identity.

He admitted that he never saw himself as a celebrity—instead, he always saw himself as "a guy trying to make people smile." That humility continues to set him apart.

💡 Vulnerability is a superpower. Your story is your strength.

Why Tareq’s Story Matters Now

A New Generation of Creators is Rising in Saudi

Tareq Al-Harbi didn’t just become famous. He became a voice for a generation.

And if you're reading this, your voice could be next. The digital platforms are open. The audience is listening. The Kingdom is transforming—and it’s looking for storytellers who can shape the next chapter.

Take this with you:

  • Be original.
  • Be proud of your roots.
  • Be consistent.
  • And most importantly, be you.

Tareq Al-Harbi’s Legacy: Make Them Laugh. Make Them Think. Make It Matter.

You don’t need a perfect setup, a fancy background, or a script. What you need is the courage to speak up and the persistence to keep going.

Tareq’s story is proof:
If you create with heart, the world will listen.

Written by Bold Saudi Editorial Team
Bold Saudi is a platform that celebrates the changemakers of the Kingdom. Discover more inspiring stories at boldsaudi.com