ABU DHABI: In a rapidly evolving landscape of technological innovation, Abu Dhabi is asserting its position as a key player in the global gaming industry, which is proving to be a powerful driver of progress. As the emirate moves forward with its knowledge-based economy, gaming is emerging as a transformative force capable of reshaping sectors like entertainment, education, and technology.
According to Mohamed Khalifa Al-Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), gaming is not just the future; it’s a future that Abu Dhabi is ready to shape. The growing prominence of the gaming industry in the region presents a unique opportunity for the emirate to thrive in an increasingly interconnected and digital world.
“By staying ahead of the curve, we will attract global talent to the emirate and create new career paths for aspiring local talent to realize their dreams,” Al-Mubarak said.
The Rise of Gaming in Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi has been closely aligned with the mainstream growth of the gaming industry, which dates back to 2010 when Ubisoft established its presence in the UAE capital. As data revealed the rapid expansion of the Middle East’s gaming market, more companies began setting up operations in Abu Dhabi, further solidifying its position as a hub for gaming innovation.
The industry has continued to thrive, with the city seeing the creation of high-skilled jobs in areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, and game analytics. The gaming sector has now become a key component of the emirate’s knowledge economy, contributing to the region’s growth.
Driving Innovation Through Partnerships and Events
Abu Dhabi’s commitment to becoming a global gaming powerhouse was further demonstrated in 2025 with the hosting of the Global Game Jam, the world’s largest game jam event, held simultaneously across the globe. One of the key locations for the event was Berklee in Manarat Al Saadiyat, where developers and gaming enthusiasts were given 48 hours to develop and showcase their projects.
“We continue to push the boundaries of learning and development, taking every opportunity to foster talent in the gaming sector,” said Al-Mubarak.
Building a Talent Pipeline
A core pillar of Abu Dhabi’s strategy for success in gaming is talent development. The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi has made significant strides in forging partnerships aimed at enhancing the local talent pipeline. One of the notable collaborations has been with Unity Technologies, a leader in the gaming industry and the creator of the engine behind 80 percent of mobile games worldwide. This partnership has focused on enhancing the skill sets of the local workforce, offering training programs that improve employability and retain early-career talent in the emirate.
Attracting Game Developers and Industry Leaders
Abu Dhabi now boasts over 80 video game companies, making it the largest such community in the region. Major global players, including MY.Games, Sperasoft, and Ninjas in Pyjamas, are all part of the emirate’s growing gaming ecosystem.
Notably, in 2024, esports company NIP Group entered into a five-year gaming subsidy agreement with DCT Abu Dhabi to expand its regional presence. Through initiatives such as internship events and company match-making programs, Abu Dhabi Gaming plays a critical role in connecting companies with local talent.
The Growth of Esports
Esports has become a major part of Abu Dhabi’s gaming scene, drawing huge global audiences and increasing participation from local teams. The emirate has seen its own esports teams, such as Nigma Galaxy, rise to prominence on the global stage, exemplifying the professionalism and potential within Abu Dhabi’s esports ecosystem.
Local talent has also made a mark internationally, with gamers like Amjad Al Shalabi, known as AngryBird, winning the 2023 EVO world championship in Las Vegas. Esports academies are flourishing across Abu Dhabi, offering a training ground for future competitive players and helping to elevate the region’s status in the global esports scene.
Showcasing Regional Culture Through Gaming
Abu Dhabi’s vision extends beyond just industry growth – it aims to showcase the region’s rich cultural heritage through gaming. One notable collaboration is Ubisoft’s work with local museums and historians on Assassin’s Creed Mirage, which authentically portrayed medieval Baghdad and highlighted the city’s historical significance in science and mathematics.
Al-Mubarak expressed confidence that more local success stories will emerge, with companies like Kashkool Games, founded by three Emirati brothers, already making strides in the industry. Their game, Sheba: A New Dawn, was published successfully in 2024, with future projects focusing on Emirati culture and heritage.
AI and the Future of Gaming
Looking ahead, AI and machine learning will play an integral role in the future of gaming. These technologies have the potential to create dynamic gaming experiences, where every gameplay is unique. Developing games using AI is an area that is gaining momentum, and Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as a leader in this space.
“We are harnessing the power of creation and welcoming dreamers to build a world-class ecosystem for the gaming industry,” said Al-Mubarak.
As Abu Dhabi continues to invest in talent, innovation, and infrastructure, it is poised to become a global gaming hub, driving both technological advancements and creative breakthroughs in the industry. The future of gaming in the emirate is boundless, with opportunities for both local and global talent to flourish in a thriving, interconnected ecosystem.
