GameExpo Summit 2025 Draws Global Gaming Leaders to Dubai for Innovation and Investment
GameExpo Summit 2025 kicked off this week at Dubai World Trade Centre, uniting over 1,500 global gaming professionals for two days of high-level networking, innovation showcases, and strategic dialogue.
Held on 7–8 May, the premier B2B gaming conference returned as a key part of the citywide Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF), now in its fourth edition.
Powered by Pocket Gamer Connects in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the summit continues to position Dubai as a central hub in the MENA region's rapidly growing gaming economy. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the event offers a vital platform for developers, publishers, investors, and tech innovators.
More than 70 leading voices from across the global gaming industry are headlining the event, leading discussions across nine themed tracks. These include hot-button topics like AI, web3, metaverse technology, user acquisition strategies, monetisation models, and game publishing trends.
A key highlight of this year's agenda is the debut of the Investment Summit, designed to spotlight emerging investment opportunities in gaming. The programme features expert panels on market growth, funding strategies, and the advantages of investing in Dubai's thriving digital sector.
Also making its first appearance is PitchPlay, an investment-focused contest hosted with DMCC. It gives game entrepreneurs and startups a chance to win prizes worth AED 55,000, including a DMCC Gaming Centre Package and promotional support.
Returning favourites include The Very Big Indie Pitch and the Connector SpeedMatch sessions, offering developers fast-track access to investors and publishers. Meanwhile, the Futura Advice Pitstop provides one-on-one consultations with legal and tax specialists, underscoring the summit's comprehensive approach to empowering the gaming ecosystem.
News Source: Emirates News Agency
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Hi Dubai
29-05-2025
- Hi Dubai
How to Legally Expand Your Business in Dubai Without Changing Your License
Dubai's economy is on an impressive upward track, growing by 3.1% in the first nine months of 2024 and reaching AED 339.4 billion, according to Digital Dubai. What's driving this momentum? Key sectors like wholesale and retail trade have grown by 2.9%, transportation and storage by 5.3%, and financial and insurance activities by 4.5%. As these industries expand, so does Dubai's potential as a global business hub. But what's the bigger vision? The emirate's ambitions are clearly outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the economy by 2033. This is supported by major reforms, most notably the decision to allow 100% foreign ownership of onshore companies since June 1, 2021. These changes are not just policy shifts, they're open invitations for global businesses to grow in Dubai. But with such an opportunity comes the need for caution. Are you operating with the right licenses? Failing to comply with licensing regulations can be costly, with penalties reaching up to AED 50,000—or worse, complete business closure. So how can businesses expand in Dubai without changing their core license or running into compliance issues? In this article, we explore legal ways to grow your business in Dubai without altering your original license structure, helping you scale safely and strategically . Understanding Your Existing License with DET The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), formerly DED, is the primary authority for business registration and licensing in Mainland Dubai. DET oversees corporate strategy, business registration, and compliance. Key License Types: Commercial License: For buying, selling, importing/exporting. For buying, selling, importing/exporting. Professional License: For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. For services like accounting, legal, and marketing. Industrial License: For manufacturing, processing, and assembling. Benefits of a DET License: Enhanced Credibility: Official government endorsement builds trust. Official government endorsement builds trust. Market Access: Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Direct access to Dubai's market, including government tenders. Flexible Visa Policies: Typically one visa per 100 square feet of office space. Typically one visa per of office space. 100% Foreign Ownership: Permitted in most mainland industries. Permitted in most mainland industries. No Minimum Capital: Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Generally, no minimum capital is required for DED-licensed mainland companies. Tax Advantages: While historically offering significant benefits, corporate tax was introduced in June 2023, applying a 9% rate on net profits exceeding AED 375,000. Diversifying Activities Under Your Existing Mainland License The UAE government allows businesses to add new activities to an existing trade license, provided all legal requirements are met. Engaging in unlisted activities can result in fines from AED 5,000 to AED 50,000. Process Highlights: Initial Approval: Obtain approval from DET for proposed new activities. Application Submission: Submit the BR1 form for license amendment. NOCs & Legalities: Secure No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant authorities if needed, and complete legal formalities (e.g., LLC agreement addendum). Final Steps: Submit all documents, pay fees (around AED 3,000 for mainland, AED 2,000 for free zones), and receive your updated license. Benefits: Unlocking new revenue streams, staying competitive, enhancing credibility, and optimizing existing resources. Free Zone to Mainland Expansion Under New Regulations Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025, issued on March 3, 2025, allows Dubai free zone businesses to operate directly in the mainland. This is a core part of Dubai's D33 economic agenda. Pathways for Free Zone Entities: Onshore Dubai Branch (physical presence required): Valid for one year, renewable. Onshore Dubai Branch (HQ in free zone, no physical presence): Valid for one year, renewable, with an annual fee of AED 10,000. Temporary Permits for Specific Activities: Valid for up to six months, with a fee of AED 5,000 annually. The DET, in coordination with licensing authorities, is expected to issue a comprehensive list of permissible activities by September 20, 2025.A significant benefit is the ability to use the existing free zone-registered workforce for mainland operations, leading to cost savings. Leveraging Digital Expansion with E-commerce and Virtual Licenses Dubai's e-commerce market is projected to reach USD 8 billion by 2025. An e-commerce license is essential for legal online operations. Adding E-commerce Activities: Businesses with existing mainland commercial licenses can add e-commerce activities following the standard amendment process. Types of E-commerce Licenses: E-Trader License: For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). For UAE/GCC nationals, home-based businesses, social media sales (no physical shop/visa). Portal License: For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. For online platforms connecting buyers and sellers. Virtual Company License: For non-resident entrepreneurs, allowing remote operation without a physical office is considered cost-effective. Cost: A Dubai e-commerce license in 2025 typically ranges from AED 5,750 to AED 15,000, depending on jurisdiction, office needs, and visa allocations. Establishing a Branch or Representative Office (An Extension, Not a Change) Foreign companies can establish a direct presence in Dubai through branch or representative offices without altering their parent company's license. Branch Office: Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of AED 50,000 . Functions as an extension of a foreign parent company, authorized to conduct commercial activities. Requires a physical office and a Local Service Agent (LSA). The Ministry of Economy (MOE) mandates a capital deposit of . Representative Office: Established solely for promotional activities, not direct sales. Requires a UAE national as a local agent. No minimum share capital is required, but a refundable MOE deposit of AED 50,000 is typically required. Franchising: A Double-Edged Sword for Business Expansion The MENA franchising industry is growing, with Dubai's market projected to reach USD 44 billion by 2026, expanding by 12% annually. The current market size exceeds AED 30 billion annually, with growth rates averaging 12-15% year over year. Franchise businesses often achieve 25-30% higher success rates and 40% faster profitability compared to independent startups. Why Franchising Can Be a Risky Bet: Unsuitability: A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. A business may not be viable for replication if its core elements aren't distinctive or strong enough to attract franchisees. Lack of IP Protection: Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Unregistered trademarks can hinder franchising. Complex Operations: If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. If the business system is too complicated or difficult to reproduce consistently, it's not suitable. Unprofitable Model: Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Franchises are often less profitable than the original business due to startup costs like franchise fees and supplies. Weak Brand Recognition: A lack of strong brand recognition makes it harder to attract franchisees and customers. Common Pitfalls for Franchisees: Inadequate Market Research: Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Not understanding local demand, competition, or ideal location. Underestimating Costs: Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically 5-8% of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another 2-3% ) can be substantial. Beyond initial fees, ongoing expenses like royalty fees (typically of gross revenue) and marketing contributions (another ) can be substantial. Wrong Franchise Model: Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Selecting a concept that lacks local demand or fails to adapt to cultural preferences. Neglecting Training & Support: Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Insufficient training and ongoing support from the franchisor can lead to operational inefficiencies. Franchisor Instability: Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Financial difficulties of the franchisor can severely impact franchisees. Market Saturation: Over-saturation or unclear territorial rights can lead to internal competition. The legal framework for franchising in the UAE is governed by the Commercial Agencies Law (Federal Law No. 18 of 1981), the Commercial Companies Law, and contract law. Commercial agents (franchisees) must register with the Ministry of Economy. Franchisors are legally obligated to provide a comprehensive disclosure document to potential franchisees. Dubai's dynamic regulatory environment supports business expansion without requiring a complete license change. Strategies include diversifying activities under existing mainland licenses, leveraging the new free zone to a mainland expansion framework (Executive Council Resolution No. 11 of 2025), embracing digital growth via e-commerce and virtual licenses, and establishing branch or representative offices. While franchising offers growth potential, it demands careful viability assessment and adherence to legal obligations. Each pathway offers distinct advantages, requiring meticulous planning and compliance for sustained success in this global business hub. (Main Sources: Also read: Can Foreigners Really Own 100% of a Business in the UAE? Here's the Truth Explore the evolution of foreign ownership restrictions in the UAE, from their historical roots to the groundbreaking 2020 reforms and the sectors that still require local ownership. Small Business Licence Cost In Dubai We'll explore the cost of a small business licence in Dubai, and guide you through the steps required to launch your business successfully. 6 Simple Steps To Set Up A Business In A UAE Free Zone Establishing a business in a UAE Free Zone is straightforward and can be completed in six simple steps, as outlined by the Ministry of Economy. The Benefits of Dubai's Free Zones for Entrepreneurs This article explores the many advantages that Dubai's free zones offer, making them an attractive proposition for entrepreneurs worldwide.
TECHx
22-05-2025
- TECHx
Dubai Esports Festival 2025 Sets New Records and Growth
Home » Emerging technologies » Gaming » Dubai Esports Festival 2025 Sets New Records and Growth Dubai's gaming economy took a major step forward with the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025. Organisers announced that the event was the biggest edition yet, showcasing innovation, talent, and investment opportunities across the city. The fourth season of the region's largest esports festival concluded with record-breaking attendance and strong industry impact. DEF 2025 welcomed over 45,000 fans, families, and professionals. The festival spanned 17 days and featured 12 major events. It combined family-friendly activities with strategic programming aimed at growing the gaming sector. Organisers reported that the flagship GameExpo event attracted more than 34,800 attendees. It offered interactive zones, tournaments, cosplay competitions, and exclusive giveaways. Live streams on TikTok MENA highlighted key moments from popular games like Valorant, Fortnite, and Tekken 8. The festival featured 3.8 million gamers competing in over 90 tournaments. Popular titles included EA FC 25, Yalla Ludo, and Fortnite. In total, DEF showcased more than 130 games, including over 10 new releases. Furthermore, DEF 2025 hosted 2,000 industry professionals from 70 countries in two B2B events. The festival spotlighted 260 SMEs from gaming and tech sectors. These companies gained access to investor networks and collaboration opportunities. Youth engagement was a key focus. The DEF Education Programme involved more than 16,000 students and educators from 250 schools across the UAE. It included gaming tournaments, workshops, career advice, and a mobile game truck visiting schools. The event aligned with Dubai's Economic Agenda D33 and the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033. The CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, Ahmed Al Khaja, revealed that DEF supports Dubai's goal to become a global hub for gaming and digital innovation. Highlights included: The Dubai Cosplay Championship with a prize pool of AED 30,000. An all-female Valorant faceoff supported by Benefit. The GameExpo Summit, which gathered over 1,700 professionals to discuss AI, Web3, and investment. Retail promotions were also reported. More than 2,500 outlets offered deals during the festival. Selected Rove Hotels provided exclusive discounts to attendees. The Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 was supported by key partners such as Amazon, du, Dubai Police, Emirates NBD, Red Bull, and Virgin Radio. This year's event confirmed Dubai's expanding role in the global esports landscape and its commitment to nurturing the gaming ecosystem for entertainment, education, and economic growth.
Hi Dubai
22-05-2025
- Hi Dubai
Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 Breaks Records and Reinforces Global Gaming Ambitions
Dubai solidified its status as a global gaming hub with the record-breaking success of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025, the region's largest celebration of gaming, esports, and digital innovation. Drawing over 45,000 attendees across 17 days, the fourth edition of the festival delivered a dynamic mix of entertainment, education, and economic opportunity. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), DEF 2025 featured 12 major events and attracted 3.8 million gamers across more than 90 tournaments on popular titles such as EA FC 25, Valorant, and Fortnite. The flagship GameExpo welcomed 34,800 visitors for the city's biggest-ever gaming weekend, with fans, families, and professionals engaging in immersive experiences, creator showdowns, and cosplay competitions. The festival hosted over 2,000 professionals from 70 countries at the GameExpo Summit and Gaming Matters conference, highlighting Dubai's growing influence in the global gaming sector. More than 75 speakers led discussions on AI, Web3, monetisation, and investment opportunities, while indie developers and start-ups pitched innovations to top investors. Youth engagement was another standout success. DEF's Education Programme reached 16,500 students and educators from 250 UAE schools, offering workshops, tournaments, and career-focused experiences to inspire the next generation of talent. More than 775 brands activated across the festival, reflecting DEF's value as a platform for market expansion and strategic collaboration. Exclusive retail promotions and hospitality deals further enhanced the citywide celebration. DFRE CEO Ahmed Al Khaja hailed the event as a key driver of Dubai's digital economy, aligning with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 and Dubai Program for Gaming 2033. 'DEF has evolved into a high-impact platform that delivers real strategic value,' he said. DEF 2025 stands as a milestone in Dubai's journey to becoming a global powerhouse in gaming and esports. News Source: Dubai Media Office
