In a world where distractions are only a tap away, nurturing the habit of reading can feel like an uphill battle. Yet, one app born in Saudi Arabia is quietly reshaping this challenge into an opportunity. Nadeem, founded by Dr. Obaid Aldhahery, is not just a tool but a cultural platform that transforms reading into a shared experience. With thousands of readers already on board, it is fast becoming a beacon for those who want to reclaim focus and rediscover the joy of books.
In this interview, Dr. Aldhahery shares the inspiration behind Nadeem, the milestones it has achieved so far, and his vision for its future within the region’s digital and cultural landscape.
The birth of Nadeem: A passion project
What led you to establish Nadeem?
My passion for reading took root more than a decade ago, when I participated in a virtual book club. It was eye-opening, but it also made me aware of challenges that many readers face: distraction, lack of motivation, and the sense of isolation that sometimes accompanies solitary reading. Nadeem was born from the desire to tackle these issues head-on. I wanted to build a platform that encourages consistent habits, revives focus, and brings joy back into daily reading.
Remarkable growth and key achievements
The app has been growing rapidly. Could you share some of its achievements so far?
The growth has truly been encouraging. In just five months, we gained more than 23,000 downloads and over 20,000 active users. Collectively, readers on Nadeem have completed over 50,000 books, which translates into more than 5 million pages turned. On average, they log over 16,000 minutes of daily reading time. These are not just numbers, they’re evidence of a community that is engaged, motivated, and finding value in making reading part of their daily lives.
What makes Nadeem unique?
At its heart, Nadeem is more than a tracker. We designed it as a cultural platform that blends productivity features with the social dynamics of a community. For example, our Focus Sessions help readers immerse themselves without distraction, while Consistency Streaks reward steady progress. Users can follow friends, celebrate milestones, and add a light element of competition. And through the Personal Library, readers organize their journeys, track progress, and curate lists for what comes next.
What makes Nadeem different is that it transforms reading from a solitary pursuit into a communal experience, one that is motivating, engaging, and rewarding.
Vision for the future
What is your long-term vision for the Nadeem app over the next five years?
We hope it becomes the primary reading companion for every reader in the Arab world.
A lasting impact: Building habits and community
Ultimately, what do you hope readers gain from using Nadeem?
We hope it helps readers maintain a consistent reading habit and connects them with reading communities and relationships that enhance and develop the reading experience.
How to join Nadeem journey
And how can people be part of this growing journey?
They can join us by visiting nadeemapp.com and downloading the app. Whether you’re starting your first reading habit or you’re already a lifelong book lover, Nadeem is here to be your companion along the way.
Final thoughts
Nadeem is more than a digital tool, it is a reflection of how culture and technology can align to shape meaningful habits. By making reading both personal and social, it has created an ecosystem where turning a page is no longer a private act, but part of a shared journey toward knowledge and growth. And with Dr. Obaid Aldhahery’s vision driving it forward, the movement has only just begun.
Finding inspiration in Jeddah’s bookstores
If you feel like you’ve forgotten the joy of reading, a visit to Jeddah’s bookstores can be truly inspiring. Rediscover your love for books and explore our guide to the best bookstores in the city.
