Saudi Arabia Esports Investment: Strategies, Impact, and Future Growth

Updated On: August 23, 2025 by     Aaron Connolly  

Saudi Arabia’s Vision for Esports Investment

Saudi Arabia has shaped its esports investment strategy around three big ideas: Vision 2030’s economic transformation, a focused National Gaming and Esports Strategy, and a push to move away from oil. The Kingdom wants esports to add SAR 50 billion to GDP by 2030.

Objectives of Vision 2030

Vision 2030 makes esports a central part of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy plans. The initiative aims to create nearly 39,000 jobs in gaming and turn Riyadh into the global esports capital.

Key targets include:

• 67% gaming penetration across the population
• Hosting huge international tournaments like the Esports World Cup
• Bringing the first Olympic Esports Games to Saudi Arabia in 2027

Saudi leaders see how esports appeals to the country’s young, tech-savvy crowd. With 23.5 million gamers already here, it’s clear there’s a ton of room to grow.

They’re pouring investment into infrastructure and talent acquisition. The plan? Build world-class facilities and attract top creators—chess Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura joining Team Falcons is just one example.

National Gaming and Esports Strategy

Saudi Arabia’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy acts as the game plan for becoming a global esports leader. This plan coordinates investments in infrastructure, talent, and ecosystem growth.

Strategic focus areas:

• Pro player development – Growing from 1,000 current pros
• International event hosting – Running tournaments that draw worldwide audiences
• Creator partnerships – Signing big-name gaming personalities and teams

This strategy favors building an integrated gaming ecosystem, not just scattered investments. Everything connects: tournaments, player development, and content creation all fit together.

Government support keeps funding and policy steady. The Saudi Esports Federation teams up with private partners to roll out these plans and track progress toward 2030 goals.

Economic Diversification Goals

Esports investment helps Saudi Arabia move away from oil and into new industries. The sector’s growth matches global entertainment trends and offers new economic power.

Economic impact projections:

Metric	2030 Target
GDP Contribution	$13.3 billion
Job Creation	39,000 positions
Market Size	SAR 50 billion

Saudi Arabia sees esports as both entertainment and a way to boost its image worldwide. Hosting major tournaments brings international attention and shows off the country’s modern side.

Digital services revenue adds to traditional telecom investments. Companies like stc now expand into gaming and esports, opening up fresh revenue streams and pushing the diversification agenda.

Key Stakeholders and Institutional Framework

Three main organizations drive Saudi Arabia’s esports transformation. The Saudi Esports Federation oversees competitive gaming, Savvy Games Group and the Public Investment Fund provide the big financial backing, and the Esports World Cup Foundation handles global tournaments.

Saudi Esports Federation’s Role

The Saudi Esports Federation acts as the official governing body for competitive gaming in the Kingdom. They work hand-in-hand with Vision 2030 to set standards and regulations.

The federation develops local talent with training and grassroots programs. They team up with international esports organizations so Saudi teams can compete on the world stage.

Key responsibilities:

• Setting gaming rules and standards
• Supporting amateur and pro player development
• Selecting national teams for global competitions
• Partnering with schools and universities on esports programs

They also handle licensing for events and venues across Saudi Arabia. This structure helps make competitive gaming a legitimate sport here, not just another form of entertainment.

Savvy Games Group and Public Investment Fund

Savvy Games Group leads Saudi Arabia’s £38 billion esports strategy. Backed by the Public Investment Fund, they have huge financial power for acquisitions and partnerships.

Investment breakdown:

• £19 billion for acquiring publishers
• £26 billion for minority stakes in gaming companies
• £7.5 billion for established gaming businesses
• £750 million for early-stage startups

The Public Investment Fund has already invested in big names like Activision Blizzard, Electronic Arts, and Nintendo. Savvy Games Group even bought the esports arm of Modern Times Group for £1.05 billion.

Brian Ward, once with Activision Blizzard, now leads Savvy Games Group as CEO. His industry experience shapes their investment strategy.

Esports World Cup Foundation

The Esports World Cup Foundation organizes Saudi Arabia’s flagship tournament series. These events grab global attention and showcase the Kingdom’s esports ambitions.

The foundation takes care of event logistics, prize distribution, and international partnerships. They attract top teams and players from across the globe.

Foundation activities:

• Running multi-game tournament formats
• Managing international broadcast rights
• Working with global esports publishers
• Developing event venues and infrastructure

They also highlight cultural exchange and tourism. Visitors experience Saudi Arabia as a modern, welcoming esports destination.

Their tournaments pull in major media coverage and help build Saudi Arabia’s reputation in the esports world.

Scale and Structure of Saudi Esports Investments

Saudi Arabia’s esports investment plan revolves around a massive £30 billion commitment through the Public Investment Fund and Savvy Games Group. They’ve spread these investments across acquisitions, startup funding, and infrastructure to build a complete esports ecosystem.

Major Investment Milestones

The Public Investment Fund launched Savvy Games Group in 2022 to lead esports investments. That move marked Saudi Arabia’s biggest step into competitive gaming so far.

Savvy’s largest deal was buying ESL, the world’s biggest esports operator. They merged ESL with FACEIT to form EFG, a global esports powerhouse. This gave Saudi Arabia real control over major tournaments worldwide.

Key acquisitions:

• ESL and FACEIT merger
• Scopely mobile gaming company
• Vindex data and tech provider
• Minority stake in VSPO tournament operator

Saudi Arabia also started new gaming studios. Steer Studios launched locally to focus on mobile games, and NEOM teamed up with MBC GROUP to create one of the region’s first AAA studios.

They’re building up infrastructure too, like an esports city in Riyadh. Qiddiya will feature gaming arenas, team facilities, and regional HQs for major companies.

Distribution of Funding

Saudi Arabia spreads its £30 billion investment across three areas. Most of the money goes to acquiring companies and esports operators.

Funding breakdown:

• 60% for acquisitions and partnerships
• 25% for infrastructure and venues
• 15% for local talent and startups

The Esports World Cup gets a big chunk each year. This flagship event features 22 championships over eight weeks and a £47 million prize pool. Riyadh will host the tournament every year starting in 2024.

Venue development takes up a major share of funding. The new 2,000-square-metre VOV facility shows Saudi Arabia’s commitment to top-tier gaming spaces. The planned esports district in Qiddiya will offer multiple arenas and training facilities.

Local talent programs get dedicated resources. The National Gaming and Esports Strategy aims to train 39,000 new workers by 2030.

Support for Startups and Established Companies

Saudi Arabia funds both new gaming startups and established international companies coming into the market. They offer different support depending on company size and stage.

Startup support:

• Direct funding via Savvy Games Group
• Incubation at new gaming hubs
• Access to advanced development facilities
• Connections to publishing networks abroad

Established companies get acquisition offers and partnership deals. Many global gaming firms have been invited to open regional offices in Saudi Arabia. The government offers tax breaks and infrastructure support for those relocating.

The Xsolla Academy partnership aims to train local game developers. This program hopes to create 3,600 new jobs by 2030 in development, marketing, and support.

International companies can tap into Saudi funding through joint ventures with local partners. This lets global expertise team up with Saudi investment and access the Middle East market.

Esports Tournaments and Events in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia now hosts some of the world’s biggest esports events. The Esports World Cup offers over £56 million in prize money, and Gamers8 pulls in millions of viewers. The Kingdom also set up national leagues to develop local talent all year.

Esports World Cup in Riyadh

The Esports World Cup takes place from July to August every year in Riyadh. It features 25 tournaments across 24 game titles at Boulevard City.

Prize Money Breakdown:

• Total prize pool: Over £56 million
• Individual tournaments: £800,000 to £5 million each
• Club Championship: Extra rewards for top-performing orgs

The event runs for eight weeks with both individual and Club Championship formats. Teams earn points across multiple games, and organizations like Team Falcons compete to keep the trophy in Saudi Arabia.

Boulevard City becomes a gaming hotspot during the tournament. There are esports arenas, fan zones, and entertainment areas. Over 1,500 pro players compete, while millions tune in online.

Gamers8 Festival

Gamers8 became part of the Esports World Cup in 2024. Before that, it was a separate eight-week festival with major titles like Fortnite, Rocket League, and PUBG Mobile.

The festival includes live concerts, gaming exhibitions, and community events alongside pro competitions. Local gaming cafes and universities often host qualifiers throughout the year.

Key Features:

• Free entry for spectators
• Interactive gaming zones
• Workshops and panels with pros
• Regional qualifier tournaments

Saudi teams regularly compete in these tournaments. The event connects international competition with local gaming communities.

National and Regional Leagues

Saudi Arabia runs domestic leagues year-round across several esports titles. The Saudi Esports Federation oversees these competitions, which feed talent into global events.

Major Domestic Competitions:

• Saudi eLeagues (football games)
• PUBG Mobile National Championship
• Valorant Regional Series
• CS2 Arabian League

These leagues use seasonal formats with £20,000 to £80,000 prize pools per title. Regional qualifiers happen in cities like Jeddah, Dammam, and Riyadh.

University esports programs play a big role too. Over 40 Saudi universities now have competitive teams, with the Saudi Universities Esports Championship drawing hundreds of student players every year.

Local gaming centers often host qualifier events. This grassroots approach helps spot new talent who can go pro or represent Saudi Arabia internationally.

Gaming Infrastructure Development

Saudi Arabia has built world-class gaming venues and upgraded its digital infrastructure to host massive esports events. The kingdom’s 5G networks and flashy new facilities now rival anything you’d find in top gaming destinations around the world.

State-of-the-Art Venues

Saudi Arabia put up purpose-built esports venues that can handle international tournaments. Each space comes with professional-grade gaming setups, broadcast equipment, and big spectator areas designed just for major competitions.

They’ve really focused on building spaces that meet global tournament standards. Every facility includes high-end gaming PCs, multiple tournament stages, and professional lighting systems for top-notch broadcasts.

Key venue features include:

• Tournament-ready gaming stations
• Professional broadcast studios
• Large audience seating areas
• Premium audio and visual equipment

These venues have already hosted the annual Esports World Cup in Riyadh. Riyadh will also host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2027, which says a lot about the quality of Saudi Arabia’s gaming infrastructure.

The venues don’t just support tournaments. Streamers and pro teams use them for training and content creation too.

Digital Connectivity and Technological Upgrades

Saudi telecom companies rolled out 5G networks to boost gaming and esports. The stc Group leads the way by providing high-speed internet and digital platforms all over the country.

The 5G setup cuts lag for competitive gaming. Pro players need stable, low-latency connections, and Saudi Arabia’s network upgrades deliver exactly that.

Network improvements include:

• Nationwide 5G coverage
• Low-latency gaming connections
• Enhanced cybersecurity systems
• Cloud gaming platform support

These upgrades back up Saudi Arabia’s goal to create 39,000 gaming jobs by 2030. Fast, reliable internet makes remote work and digital content creation possible.

The infrastructure lets people stream and broadcast tournaments live. High-quality video streaming needs a lot of bandwidth, and Saudi networks now provide it consistently.

Growth of Saudi Esports Teams and Talent

Saudi Arabia has built a lively ecosystem of pro esports teams and grassroots talent programs. The kingdom now supports almost 1,000 full-time esports players while pouring money into local leagues and women’s participation.

Team Falcons

Team Falcons stands out as Saudi Arabia’s top esports organization, competing in multiple games at the international level. The team really embodies the kingdom’s drive to showcase world-class talent on the global stage.

Saudi investors backed Team Falcons from the start, and now they’ve got squads in Dota 2, PUBG Mobile, and Rocket League. Their Dota 2 team has played in big tournaments worldwide, picking up prize money and recognition.

They run training facilities in Riyadh with high-end setups. Players get full-time salaries and have access to coaching staff and performance analysts, much like you’d see in traditional sports.

Key achievements include:

• Multiple regional championship titles
• International tournament appearances
• Development of local Saudi talent alongside international recruits

Team Falcons sets the standard for other Saudi esports organizations. Their focus on infrastructure and talent development shows the kingdom’s commitment to playing at the highest levels.

Development of Local Players

Saudi Arabia’s domestic leagues help local players grow through structured competition. The Saudi eLeague gives amateur players a shot at professional skills and real competition.

Now, nearly 1,000 players make a living from esports in the kingdom. That’s a massive shift from casual gaming to real careers with salaries and support.

Development initiatives include:

• Regional qualifying tournaments
• Coaching and training programs
• Partnerships with international teams for experience exchanges
• Academy systems that find and nurture young talent

The Saudi Esports Federation runs national tournaments in popular titles. These events give talented players a path to join pro teams or catch the eye of international scouts.

Local players get help from the government through the National Gaming and Esports Strategy. This support covers training facilities, equipment, and travel to global competitions.

Women in Esports

Women’s participation in Saudi esports has grown quickly as part of bigger social reforms. Female gamers now compete in dedicated tournaments and mixed-gender events.

The kingdom hosts women-only tournaments so female competitors can build skills in a supportive space. These events feature top titles like Valorant, League of Legends, and mobile games.

Recent developments include:

• All-female tournament circuits
• Mixed-gender team opportunities
• Streaming and content creation support
• Mentorship programs that connect experienced and new players

Saudi female streamers and content creators have become popular across the region. Their visibility helps normalize women’s roles in competitive gaming.

Training facilities now welcome female players with proper amenities and flexible schedules. Some organizations even recruit female talent specifically to create more diverse teams that match the kingdom’s gaming community.

Popular Game Titles and Saudi Participation

Saudi Arabia’s gaming scene revolves around top international titles like Call of Duty, Apex Legends, and League of Legends. Local players have gained global recognition, and homegrown communities compete in regional tournaments while supporting their own talent.

Apex Legends, Call of Duty, and International Titles

Call of Duty is still one of the top games in Saudi Arabia. Local teams jump into regional qualifiers for international tournaments.

A lot of Saudi players take part in Call of Duty: Warzone competitions. The game is popular because it’s accessible, especially with its mobile version.

Apex Legends has caught on among Saudi gamers. The battle royale vibe appeals to younger players, especially those streaming on Twitch and YouTube.

FIFA is where Saudi Arabia really shines internationally. Mosaad Al Dossary’s win at the FIFA eWorld Cup put Saudi esports on the map.

Popular international titles in Saudi Arabia:

• Counter-Strike 2
• Fortnite
• PUBG Mobile
• Rocket League

Mobile gaming is huge here, thanks to high smartphone use. PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile draw millions of Saudi players every month.

League of Legends and Valorant

League of Legends keeps a loyal Saudi playerbase, even with some regional server issues. Local tournaments sometimes offer prize pools as high as $50,000.

MENA regional competitions are getting more Saudi participation. Saudi teams regularly qualify for international events.

Valorant has taken off since 2020. The tactical shooter draws in both old Counter-Strike fans and new players.

Riot Games has invested in MENA infrastructure, including Arabic language support and regional tournaments that feature Saudi teams.

Key Valorant developments:

• Saudi teams in VCT MENA competitions
• Local bootcamps and training facilities
• Partnerships with international organizations

Team Falcons even signed Hikaru Nakamura for chess content. It’s interesting to see Saudi organizations branching out beyond traditional esports.

Growth of Local Gaming Communities

Gaming cafes in Riyadh and Jeddah run weekly tournaments. These places double as training grounds for would-be pros.

Local Discord servers connect thousands of Saudi gamers. They organize scrims, trade tips, and talk about international events.

Community growth indicators:

• 23.5 million gamers nationwide
• Regional tournament participation up 300%
• Local streaming content in Arabic

Universities now offer esports programs. King Saud University kicked off competitive gaming courses in 2024.

Saudi Gaming and Esports Federation helps organize national teams. They offer coaching, funding, and support for international tournaments.

Female participation keeps climbing. Women’s-only tournaments draw hundreds of players across different games.

Arabic-language streaming is booming. Local creators pull in audiences with strategy talk and tournament analysis.

Role of Gaming Companies and Partnerships

Gaming companies and strategic partnerships now drive Saudi Arabia’s esports transformation. These collaborations bring technical know-how, global talent, and proven business models to speed up the kingdom’s gaming ecosystem.

Saudi and International Publisher Involvement

Major international publishers have set up big operations in Saudi Arabia. Companies like EA Sports, Riot Games, and Activision Blizzard partner with local organizations to develop talent and infrastructure.

The Public Investment Fund (PIF) has pumped $38 billion into gaming. That includes buying stakes in top publishers and funding local studios.

Savvy Games Group, backed by the PIF, has made smart investments in global gaming. They’ve teamed up with international publishers to bring popular titles and tournaments to Saudi audiences.

Local Saudi gaming companies are growing fast, too. The top 10 game development companies in the kingdom have seen a surge after the government’s $488 million investment.

These partnerships drive technology transfer and knowledge sharing. International companies bring expertise, and Saudi partners offer market access and local insights.

Collaborations with Global Brands

Team Falcons leads the way in global partnerships. They’ve signed top international creators like chess Grandmaster Hikaru Nakamura, showing Saudi Arabia’s ability to attract world-class talent.

The Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) works with global gaming companies to build up the local esports scene. These partnerships focus on organizing tournaments, developing talent, and improving infrastructure.

stc Group has teamed up with the SEF and Savvy Games Group. Their partnership goes beyond telecom, weaving gaming and esports into Saudi Arabia’s economy.

Big brands now invest in Saudi esports events. The annual Esports World Cup in Riyadh attracts international sponsors, helping create a sustainable revenue model.

These partnerships aim to create 39,000 jobs and add $13.3 billion to GDP by 2030, according to the National Gaming and Esports Strategy.

Impact on the Saudi Economy

Saudi Arabia’s esports investments are paying off, with projections showing SAR 50 billion in GDP contributions by 2030. The sector is opening up thousands of jobs and supports the Kingdom’s Vision 2030 economic diversification plan.

Job Creation and Skills Development

The esports industry plans to create nearly 39,000 jobs across Saudi Arabia by 2030. These roles go beyond just pro gaming—they include event management, broadcasting, marketing, and plenty of technical positions.

Right now, about 1,000 players work full-time in esports. The Saudi Esports Federation keeps talent growing through structured programs and training.

Key employment areas include:

• Professional players and coaching staff
• Event production and tournament organization
• Content creation and streaming services
• Technical support and infrastructure management

The sector appeals to Saudi Arabia’s young, tech-savvy crowd. With 23.5 million gamers—about 67% of the population—it’s a huge talent pool for skills development.

Government investment in gaming zones and esports arenas brings even more jobs. Projects like Qiddiya City’s gaming district will need lots of staff across different areas.

Contribution to GDP and Economic Diversification

Esports could add $13.3 billion (SAR 50 billion) to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030, at least if the National Gaming and Esports Strategy pans out. That’s a big change for a country that’s long relied on oil.

The Kingdom rolled out its National Gaming and Esports Sector Strategy in 2022. They’re betting on a competitive ecosystem that fits Vision 2030’s big push for diversification.

Revenue streams fueling growth:

• Tournament prize pools and event hosting
• Sponsorship and advertising partnerships
• Merchandise and ticket sales
• Broadcasting rights and media content

Major infrastructure projects are in the works to back this transformation. The annual Esports World Cup in Riyadh pulls in global players and investors, putting Saudi Arabia on the map as a gaming hub.

Gaming revenues in the Middle East and Africa hit $7.2 billion in 2023. Saudi Arabia now leads the region. Their investments in facilities and talent are setting the stage for steady growth in this sector.

Government Policy and Future Outlook

Saudi Arabia’s government built its esports investment plan on two pillars. The National Gaming and Esports Strategy acts as the map to becoming a global gaming hub. Vision 2030 gives the economic framework for moving beyond oil.

Long-term Regulatory Strategies

Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman launched the National Gaming and Esports Strategy in 2022. This plan aims to make Saudi Arabia a global esports hub by 2030.

The strategy zeroes in on three main areas:

• Infrastructure development for major tournaments
• Talent cultivation with training programs
• International partnerships with gaming companies

Government investment has jumped fast. The National Development Fund bumped its support from SAR 300 million to billions more. This cash goes to esports venues, training centers, and education programs.

Regulatory frameworks now try to attract international gaming companies. The government offers incentives for esports organizations to set up regional HQs in Saudi Arabia. These policies aim to create jobs and build local expertise.

Youth engagement is a big focus. With 67% of Saudi Arabia’s 23.5 million people gaming, the government sees esports as a perfect fit for its young population.

Projections for 2030 and Beyond

Saudi Arabia’s esports sector could contribute $13.3 billion (SAR 50 billion) to GDP by 2030. That’s a huge economic shift for a country that’s always leaned on oil.

Here’s what the numbers look like:

• 39,000 new jobs expected across gaming
• 23.5 million active gamers fueling growth
• Global events like Gamers8 already drawing worldwide audiences

Key growth drivers:

• Hosting major tournaments
• Broadcasting and media partnerships
• Gaming companies relocating to Saudi Arabia
• Esports education and training academies

The government wants these investments to make Saudi Arabia the Middle East’s gaming capital. International broadcasters are already buying rights for Saudi-hosted events, which boosts global market value.

The Kingdom is betting big on esports to deliver sustainable, non-oil revenue streams and keep its young population engaged in the economy.

Saudi Arabia’s Place in the Global Esports Ecosystem

Saudi Arabia has quickly taken the lead in the Middle East and is making serious moves on the global stage with huge investments and top-tier events. The Kingdom now competes with esports giants like South Korea and China.

Regional Leadership in the Middle East

Saudi Arabia leads the Middle Eastern esports scene, with 23.5 million gamers making up 67% of its population. That’s a huge home base for regional growth.

The Kingdom hosts the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, now the world’s biggest esports event. This tournament brings in elite players from everywhere, making Saudi Arabia the regional hub for competitive gaming.

Key regional strengths:

• Biggest gaming population in the Gulf
• Strong government support through Vision 2030
• Modern infrastructure in cities like Riyadh
• Location that connects Europe, Asia, and Africa

The Saudi Esports Federation has built partnerships across the Middle East. They run cross-regional tournaments and help neighboring countries develop their own esports programs.

Other Gulf states like the UAE and Qatar are trying to catch up. Still, none match Saudi Arabia’s scale or its drive to become a global esports destination.

Global Comparisons and Influence

Saudi Arabia’s £38 billion investment through Savvy Games Group matches the spending of traditional esports powers. That puts the Kingdom up there with China and the U.S. in terms of money in the game.

How the Kingdom stacks up:

• South Korea: Established ecosystem, skilled player base
• China: Huge market, but tight government controls
• Saudi Arabia: Deep pockets, fast growth, strategic crossroads

Saudi Arabia’s approach stands out. Instead of slow, organic growth, they pour capital into infrastructure and acquisitions. You see this in their takeovers of global gaming companies and their push for local talent programs.

Hosting international tournaments has become their strongest global play. Events like Gamers8 drew 1.5 million visitors in 2023, with £45 million in prize money.

The National Gaming and Esports Strategy aims to create 39,000 jobs by 2030. This workforce could eventually export Saudi know-how, a bit like how South Korean esports spread worldwide.

Major global gaming companies are setting up Middle Eastern HQs in Saudi Arabia. That’s already sending ripples through the global esports industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

Saudi Arabia’s esports investment is massive, with over $38 billion from government and private players. The National Gaming and Esports Strategy is targeting 39,000 new jobs and a $13.3 billion GDP boost by 2030.

What initiatives has the Saudi Esports Federation taken to promote esports in the region?

The Saudi Esports Federation rolled out talent development programs across the country. They’ve set up gaming academies that train young players under 20.

The federation runs youth tournaments to spot and nurture local talent. These events give aspiring players a shot at international competition.

They’ve also teamed up with global gaming groups to bring world-class training to Saudi players. Saudi Rocket League teams have started winning big, which is no small feat.

How is Saudi Arabia preparing to host international esports events like the Esports World Cup?

Saudi Arabia is building high-tech gaming facilities as part of the NEOM megacity project. These include motion capture studios, game development centers, and dedicated esports arenas.

The Kingdom invested heavily in fast internet to support live streaming and big tournaments. Gaming campuses now feature pro-level equipment for top competitions.

Saudi Arabia will host the Olympic Esports Games in 2025, showing they’re ready for the big leagues. All this infrastructure also helps with preparing for the FIFA World Cup in 2034.

In what ways is the gaming industry influencing economic growth in Saudi Arabia?

The gaming sector could add $13.3 billion to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030. That’s a serious move away from the oil economy.

The industry plans to create 39,000 jobs in everything from game development to event management and content creation. These jobs open doors for young Saudis, with 89% of the population under 35.

Gaming cafés, esports zones, and entertainment districts are giving tourism and hospitality a boost. The goal is to launch 250 gaming companies by 2030, which will help export Saudi services worldwide.

What is the role of Savvy Games Group in the development of esports within Saudi Arabia?

Savvy Games Group leads the Kingdom’s big investment push in gaming. Their 2023 Annual Report says the market should hit $13.3 billion by 2030.

The group focuses on building partnerships with global game developers and publishers. They’re setting up AAA game studios through joint ventures with companies like MBC Group.

Savvy Games Group also puts money into gaming infrastructure and talent programs. Their work supports the bigger Vision 2030 diversification plans.

How does PwC view the expansion of the esports sector in Saudi Arabia’s economy?

PwC’s research calls Saudi Arabia’s $38 billion investment a game-changer for the region. Their reports see real potential for the Kingdom to become a global esports hub.

The consultancy points out the need to develop local talent and create steady revenue streams. They spot opportunities for small and medium businesses to become key players.

PwC also notes that gaming helps train the digital skills the workforce needs. With nearly half the global workforce needing reskilling by 2025, gaming education is more important than ever.

What impact is the inclusion of esports in the Olympic Games expected to have on the Middle East’s gaming scene?

With the Olympic Esports Games heading to Saudi Arabia in 2025, the global spotlight is definitely shifting toward the region’s gaming scene. Suddenly, local talent has a real shot at getting noticed on a massive stage.

We’ll probably see a big push for new infrastructure and fresh international partnerships all over the Middle East. Gaming communities here could finally get the kind of investment and recognition they’ve been hoping for.

Now that esports is joining the Olympics, a lot more people are going to see it as a real sport. That’s bound to inspire more young folks to chase gaming as a career—even in places where that idea used to seem far-fetched.