Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a global leader in the games and esports sector is evident. The country’s strategy aims to invest in the industry and build a vibrant ecosystem. Saudi Arabia’s vision, led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, looks to establish the kingdom as a global hub for games and esports.
Over the past three years, this vision has materialized, bringing together stakeholders from all corners of the gaming world. By engaging with international companies and investors, Saudi Arabia has been able to position itself as an attractive partner for industry growth. Visits to countries like China, South Korea, and the U.S. have shown that the kingdom’s shared vision is its greatest asset.
One major aspect that stands out in these discussions is the importance of collaboration. Saudi Arabia’s approach to games and esports involves working closely with governments, brands, and other sectors to create a unified direction. This partnership mindset has helped steer the country’s strategy and ensured its place in the global gaming landscape. Notably, Saudi Arabia is the only country with a national strategy dedicated to games and esports, making it a unique player on the world stage.
In addition to collaboration, localization plays a critical role in Saudi Arabia’s strategy. The country’s large Arabic-speaking population is a key advantage. Studies show that Gulf gamers prefer Arabic-language content. By focusing on localized games and stories, Saudi Arabia aims to build deeper connections with local audiences. For instance, the recent Pokémon GO event in Saudi Arabia attracted over 5,000 fans, highlighting the importance of cultural relevance in gaming.
Saudi Arabia has also focused on creating a robust infrastructure to support the gaming industry. The country’s investment in cutting-edge technology, digital infrastructure, and grassroots development is laying the foundation for a thriving sector. The development of Qiddiya City, the world’s first urban district dedicated to gaming and esports, is a prime example of this investment.
Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia’s gaming market is expected to continue its rapid growth. With over 70 million gamers in the MENA region, Saudi Arabia is a driving force in this sector. By 2026, the market is projected to reach $1.36 billion, showcasing the country’s immense growth potential. The success of companies like Savvy Games Group and ESL FACEIT Group further emphasizes the kingdom’s increasing influence in the industry.
