Latest news with #GameExpoSummit
Zawya
07-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
DEF GameExpo Summit 2025 unlocks funding pathways for next-gen gaming startups
Region's biggest gaming conference returns on 7 and 8 May to facilitate comprehensive networking and funding opportunities for more than 1,500 developers, publishers, distributors, tool providers, and investors Two-day conference delivers a packed schedule of dynamic and interactive sessions across nine themed tracks, in addition to the first-ever Investment Summit and the popular return of MENA Games Industry Awards Esteemed speaker line-up will be led by the UAE Minister of State for Artificial Intelligence, as well as industry visionaries and pioneers from the global gaming industry Dubai, United Arab Emirates: The region's premier B2B gaming conference GameExpo Summit 2025 returns to Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), Zabeel Hall 1 on 7 and 8 May, bringing together global leaders, investors, and innovators to the heart of MENA's fast-growing gaming economy. Powered by Pocket Gamer Connects in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the conference is part of the fourth edition of the citywide Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE). The annual conference is set to welcome more than 1,500 industry professionals from around the world, making it an ideal platform for businesses to connect with global developers, publishers, distributors, tool providers, and investors. Attendees have a rare and focused opportunity to stay ahead of the curve by exploring nine themed tracks focused on new technologies from web3, AI, and metaverse, as well as the latest approaches, techniques, and trends in monetisation, user acquisition, retention, payments, webstores, games publishing, development, and beyond to explore the unprecedented growth of the MENA market. An esteemed line-up of over 70 speakers, visionaries, and pioneers are leading strategic discussions, including H.E. Dr. Abdulrahman Hassan Al Muaini, Assistant Undersecretary for the Intellectual Property Rights Sector at UAE Ministry of Economy; Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME; Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du; Jê Alipio, Director and Head of Business Development (Games), APAC & MENA at The Walt Disney Company; as well as several other high-profile panellists from across the global gaming industry. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), commented: 'The GameExpo Summit, held as part of our citywide Dubai Esports and Games Festival, has evolved into a critical platform for global industry professionals to engage with the most dynamic developments shaping the future of gaming. In a sector defined by constant innovation - from AI and immersive technologies to new models of monetisation and investment - the Summit provides a focused environment where ideas can be instantly activated and opportunities immediately scaled. This year, we are deepening our commitment to not only enabling high-value connections, but also driving strategic dialogue around the future of esports and gaming. By convening developers, publishers, investors, and innovators under one roof, we aim to reinforce Dubai's role as a central hub for gaming and digital innovation across the region. The momentum behind the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 underscores the city's ambition, and the Summit plays a direct role in translating that vision into tangible outcomes for the industry.' Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du, said: "As the official telecom partner for the GameExpo Summit 2025, du is not just showcasing its commitment to driving innovation in the gaming industry; we are on a mission to empower cutting-edge gaming experiences through unmatched connectivity, innovation, and collaborative efforts. By offering high-speed internet, ultra-low latency, and the transformative power of 5G, we ensure that gamers experience no interruptions or lag - elements critically important for real-time multiplayer games and fast-paced cloud gaming scenarios. Our embrace of edge computing has successfully minimised latency, bringing data processing closer to users and opening up unparalleled possibilities for gamers to fully immerse themselves in their gaming experience. We are committed to fostering breakthroughs and partnerships that will shape the future of gaming, ensuring a thriving ecosystem for gaming innovation." Launching for the first time at GameExpo Summit main stage, the Investment Summit explores current and emerging investment trends within the gaming sector. Running for the afternoon of Day 1, the programme features panels and talks specifically structured to focus on games industry investment - such as the benefits of investing in Dubai, spotting opportunities in emerging markets, and global trends shaping the sector. Another brand-new addition to the programme this year is PitchPlay, produced in partnership with DMCC as part of the Investment Summit to offer game entrepreneurs, developers, tech studios, tool makers, and service companies the chance to gain investment from a panel of experts and win prizes worth AED 55,000 – including a DMCC Gaming Centre Package worth AED 30,000 and a AED 25,000 Steel Media promotional package. Returning as an event favourite this year is The Very Big Indie Pitch competition, celebrating new indie games across mobile, PC and console while enabling developers to receive real-time feedback and identify new market opportunities from potential customers in a speed-networking format. In parallel, Connector SpeedMatch sessions have been designed as carefully matched rapid-fire meetings to pair game developers with publishers and investors to identify the right funding opportunities and partnerships. Meanwhile, the Big Indie Zone exclusive expo area invites indie developers to showcase their games to the industry's decision makers. Lastly, the Futura Advice Pitstop hosts a marathon of one-on-one consultations with seasoned legal and tax experts. Marking its highly anticipated return to the Summit this year are the prestigious MENA Games Industry Awards, celebrating the very best businesses and individuals who are propelling the exciting MENA games industry forward. The awards spotlight every part of the ecosystem, from game developers and publishers to advertising and monetisation companies, tool-makers, and support companies, as well as new emerging technologies that enable the magic to happen. In a thrilling showcase of the sector's top talents, special award categories also pay homage to true industry legends who have made their mark on the industry. Gaming industry professionals can secure their place at the GameExpo Summit with tickets starting at AED 350, available exclusively on Platinumlist. Ticket holders receive FREE access to DEF's flagship consumer GameExpo event happening from 9-11 May in DWTC, Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. GameExpo Summit is powered by Pocket Gamer Connects in partnership with the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET); with the support of DMCC Gaming Centre, Playhop, Cloudflare, Xsolla, ID@XBox, Gaming Lab, Almedia, American University of Dubai, Sensor Tower, Winking Studios, Futura, Immersionica, Ludo, Infactica SDK, Gamelight, BLK BOX, LavegaPro, Merak Capital, Game Factory Talents, Infernozilla, TrueWorld Studios, and Jollify Games. About Dubai Esports and Games Festival Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF 2025) takes place from 25 April to 11 May. Launched in 2022, the annual festival returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre once again this year. The festival aims to set and influence trends across both the global and regional gaming industry, and bolster Dubai's position as a global hub for esports and interactive tech-driven entertainment, and as a global city at the forefront of innovation. DEF 2025 features a combination of events including a lively GameExpo, esports tournaments, and influencer challenges, alongside GameExpo Summit, a thought-provoking and business stimulating conference and B2B networking event that connects companies from around the world. About Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), an agency of Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), is responsible for developing Dubai's retail and festival sectors and supporting the positioning of Dubai as a world-class tourism destination with year-round family entertainment, shopping and events.
What's On
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- What's On
Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 is starting this weekend
It's going to be a fun one… Gamers, assemble, Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 is coming this weekend and will be on for two weeks, from Friday, April 25 to Sunday, May 11. This is the fourth edition of the festival and it's promising to be the best one yet. It's 17 days of fun with action-packed events for all ages and interests. There are competitions, cutting-edge gaming technology, and industry-defining event is geared towardsm everyone, from families, friends, fans, casual gamers, and even esports champions. There's truly something for all ages, gaming, abilities, and interests. A popular experience returning this year is the GameExpo event, which is the festivals flagship, it will be from 9 to 11 May at Dubai World Trade Centre. A dream for gamers, there will be explore eight themed gaming zones, from high-stakes esports tournaments to retro arcade nostalgia, Sim Racing, and Web3 Gaming experiences. Other experiences include GameExpo Summit, Dubai Cosplay Championship, Play Beyond, as well as citywide tournaments, education challenges, and engaging experiences allowing attendees to immerse themselves in various aspects of gaming and learning. From high-stakes esports battles to immersive gaming experiences, and exclusive previews of next-generation technology, DEF is the perfect chance for players, creators, and industry leaders to come together to shape the future of gaming. You can find the schedule for the Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 and more info here. There are lots of events happening in Dubai this weekend, Mochakk is playing, Michael Bibi is coming to Ushuaia, and more… > Sign up for FREE to get exclusive updates that you are interested in
TECHx
17-04-2025
- Entertainment
- TECHx
Dubai Esports and Games Festival Returns for Fourth Edition
Dubai is gearing up for the return of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025, taking place from 25 April to 11 May. The festival is set to deliver a high-energy mix of competitions, interactive experiences, and the latest in gaming innovation. Organized by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), DEF supports the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33. It also strengthens Dubai's position as a global destination for technology, business, and entertainment. This year's edition invites families, casual gamers, and esports professionals to discover what's next in digital gaming. Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, stated that DEF is more than a celebration. It is a platform for innovation, talent development, and industry growth. He emphasized its role in supporting SMEs and creating new career paths in the gaming sector. The event will feature returning fan-favorites like GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, and Dubai Cosplay Championship. New experiences are also on the agenda, including immersive gaming zones and citywide tournaments. The aim is to offer something for all ages, interests, and skill levels. From 9 to 11 May, GameExpo will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre. It will include eight themed zones, such as Retro Zone, Sim Racing, Web3 Gaming, and a Family Zone. DEF 2025 also adds The Quest: The New IRL Zone and the Just Dance Zone, expanding the festival's appeal. Visitors can enjoy esports tournaments featuring titles like League of Legends, FC25, and PUBG Mobile. Interactive areas, merchandise zones, and food courts will ensure a complete day out for attendees. The popular Play Beyond segment will showcase top gaming influencers and content creators in action. GameExpo will also introduce the Web3 Pavilion and showcase tech partners like Red Bull, Antifreeze, and Nasr Esports Academy. Rare collectibles, meet-and-greets, and live challenges will add to the excitement. Ticket prices start at AED 29 for students and AED 44 for adults. Three-day passes and special Pro Gamer Experience tickets are also available. Family packages and early bird discounts can be purchased through Platinumlist. The Dubai Cosplay Championship returns on 11 May with cash prizes up to AED 30,000. Cosplayers can take part in runway walks, meet top artists, and showcase their talent in a lively competition. Registration closes on 6 May. DEF 2025 also focuses on youth engagement through its Educational Programme. School groups can explore the world of gaming on 8 May and compete in challenges for prizes worth AED 50,000. Workshops, hackathons, and school visits aim to promote careers in gaming and esports. New initiatives like Game Quest Express and Cool Career Talks will take gaming directly to schools. These programs offer students hands-on experiences and a platform to share ideas on how gaming can support innovation and education. The GameExpo Summit, taking place on 7 and 8 May, is expected to draw global attention. Powered by Pocket Gamer Connects, it will feature over 100 speakers covering topics like AI, mobile gaming, and Web3. The summit will also include networking sessions, investment panels, and the MENA Games Awards. For competitive gamers, DEF 2025 brings several high-profile tournaments. These include the DEF PlayStation Cup, with qualifiers from 24 March to 9 April, and a Grand Final on 9 May. The Yalla Ludo Challenge runs from 29 April to 6 May, offering in-game rewards and prizes. Attendees can also benefit from exclusive hotel deals. Rove Hotels is offering a 25% discount for bookings made before 8 May. The offer is valid for stays between 20 April and 10 May at select locations across Dubai. Reaching the festival is easy. Dubai World Trade Centre is accessible by metro, bus, taxi, or car. Over 7,500 parking spots, valet services, and EV charging stations are available. Visitors can also enjoy a AED 5 discount on parking. The Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 promises something for every gaming fan. Whether you're into cosplay, tech, esports, or just a fun day out, DEF 2025 is an event not to miss.
Zawya
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Dubai Esports and Games Festival returns for a 17-day citywide gaming celebration from April 25 to May 11
Festival returns with a dynamic lineup of entertainment, competitions, and industry events DEF 2025 will bring together pro-gamers, enthusiasts, and industry experts for an electrifying showcase of gaming, esports, and entertainment Key highlights include exclusive meet-and-greet sessions, world-first game showings, and the return of GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, Dubai Cosplay Championship, and Play Beyond Dubai, United Arab Emirates – Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE) has announced the return of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF), set to take place from 25 April to 11 May. The fourth edition of the region's largest esports and gaming festival will feature a diverse programme of entertainment, competitions, and industry events, further reinforcing Dubai's position as a global gaming hub. DEF 2025 aims to strengthen Dubai's position as a key player in the gaming industry, offering unparalleled gaming experiences, exciting esports tournaments, cutting-edge industry insights, and family fun events for all ages and interests. Key highlights of the upcoming edition include exclusive meet-and-greet sessions with top stars, world-first game showings, and the return of popular experiences such as the GameExpo, GameExpo Summit, Dubai Cosplay Championship, and Play Beyond. The festival will also feature citywide tournaments, education challenges, and interactive experiences catering to gaming enthusiasts of all ages. Last year's edition brought together thousands of fans, families, and professionals, with the DEF GameExpo welcoming over 28,000 visitors from more than 100 nationalities across three days at the Dubai World Trade Centre. Sixteen regional tournaments saw participation from over 3.6 million players, with significant prizes awarded. The DEF Education Programme creatively engaged more than 6,000 students from 230 schools and universities through career talks, skills workshops, and challenges. The festival also attracted 2,000 industry professionals, strengthening Dubai's status as a regional hub for gaming and esports. DEF is a key event in Dubai's efforts to expand its gaming industry on the international stage. The festival supports the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to further consolidate Dubai's position as one of the top global cities to live, visit, and work. It also contributes to economic development through digital innovation, while supporting SME growth by empowering emerging gaming talent and promoting career opportunities in esports across the UAE. Immersive gaming and esports tournaments The biggest and most immersive gaming event in the region, this year's GameExpo 2025 will return to Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) Zabeel Halls 2 and 3 from 9 to 11 May, offering diverse experiences for every type of gamer. Eight dedicated gaming zones will provide an unmissable event for fans and families—whether in high-stakes esports tournaments, casual family games, retro arcade experiences, tabletop challenges, VR encounters, or real-world skill challenges. At the heart of the action will be the Main Arena, Gaming District, Emirates NBD Family Zone, Retro Zone, and the talabat F&B Zone, along with two new additions—The Quest: The New IRL Zone and Just Dance Zone—debuting this year. Each zone will highlight the region's dynamic gaming culture, featuring competitive esports, interactive experiences, and family-friendly entertainment. Adding to the excitement, GameExpo 2025 will feature The Narrows, a vibrant marketplace where fans and families can explore cutting-edge merchandise, gaming technologies, and industry trends while engaging directly with local vendors, creators, and small businesses shaping the regional gaming industry. Vendors interested in exhibiting can contact the organisers via this link. With something for every type of gaming adventure, GameExpo 2025 is where the future of gaming will come to life. Tickets are now available with various early bird discounts. One-day passes can be purchased starting from just AED29 for students or AED44 for adults. Fans attending all days of the GameExpo can purchase three-day passes starting from AED49 for students and AED99 for adults. Limited Pro Gamer Experience tickets are available for fans looking for special one-day access to GameExpo 2025 including meet-and-greets with gaming influencers, starting from AED149. Families of six with two adults and four children can book a one-day pass starting from AED99 or a three-day pass starting from AED225. Tickets can be booked through Platinumlist. Meet-And-Greets with Gaming Legends As part of the action-packed GameExpo 2025, gaming enthusiasts can witness thrilling matchups and intense battles as regional and global pros compete at Play Beyond. Taking place on 10 and 11 May at DWTC Zabeel Halls 2 and 3, the event will feature top gamers in high-energy challenges. Fans will have the chance to cheer on their favourite creators as they battle for the coveted Play Beyond trophy and connect with them during exclusive meet-and-greet sessions. Selected attendees will also have the opportunity to step onto the main stage and participate in interactive gameplay alongside influencers, immersing themselves in an electrifying gaming atmosphere. Crowning Dubai's Ultimate Cosplayers Fans of anime, video games, movies, and comics will take centre stage in a cosplay showdown where creativity knows no bounds. The Dubai Cosplay Championship at DEF 2025 invites cosplayers to showcase their skills and compete for cash prizes on 10 May at DWTC Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. The Cosplay Opening Act will feature artists bringing characters to life in impressive transformations. The Daily Cosplay Catwalk is open to all, giving participants a chance to showcase their costumes and creativity on a vibrant runway and compete for prizes. The Cosplay Competition will see regional cosplayers battle it out to be crowned the best, demonstrating their incredible craftsmanship and performance skills in pursuit of top honours. The Meet & Greet with Top Cosplayers will offer fans the rare opportunity to connect with their favourite cosplay stars, learn from their expertise, and immerse themselves in the thriving world of cosplay. With live performances, creative costumes, and an energetic atmosphere, this is a must-attend event for cosplay fans. Inspiring Young Minds School students and educators have the chance to explore esports and gaming through the DEF Educational Engagement Programme, which runs until May 2025. Designed to educate, engage, and empower aspiring young talent, the programme blends education and entertainment through exciting competitions and activities. Contests like the Minecraft Education Challenge and the ENBD Fortnite Quest will challenge students to demonstrate their skills and creativity for a chance to win prizes and be crowned champions. The GameOn with HP Gaming Garage hackathon will provide aspiring developers with hands-on experience in game development, covering coding, design, and prototype creation. The Power Up Parade will bring together students, gamers, and fans in a vibrant celebration of the DEF spirit. Game Quest Express, the latest addition to the programme, will introduce immersive gaming experiences, enhancing esports engagement. In-school visits featuring interactive workshops and expert-led sessions will give students and teachers valuable insights into career opportunities within gaming and esports. Registration for all competitions and activities is now live. GameExpo Summit The GameExpo Summit, powered by Pocket Gamer Connects and the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), will bring the global gaming industry to Dubai for a conference at DWTC Zabeel Hall 1 on 7 and 8 May. Serving as a premier hub for networking, industry insights, and business development, the two-day event will feature over 100 expert speakers discussing AI, Web3, mobile gaming, and the expansion of the MENA gaming sector. Themed conference tracks will explore advancements in the Metaverse, investment strategies, and the future of gaming technologies, offering insights into the fast-growing MENA gaming market and business opportunities within it. Attendees will also have access to high-value networking events, business matchmaking, and exclusive deal-making sessions designed to foster collaboration and industry growth. A highlight of the event will be the MENA Games Awards, recognising excellence and innovation across the region's gaming landscape. With discussions on industry trends, investment opportunities, and cutting-edge technologies shaping the future of gaming, the GameExpo Summit is an essential event for developers, publishers, investors, and entrepreneurs looking to engage with the gaming industry. For more information and to register interest for the GameExpo Summit, please visit the website. Tickets can be booked through Platinumlist. For school tournaments, free visits to GameExpo; and to enter the Minecraft Education Challenge, the ENBD Fortnite Quest, Power Up Parade, and Game Quest Express, registration can be completed on the DEF 2025 website. For the Game On with HP Gaming Garage hackathon, registration is now open on the HP website. For more information and to register for ticket updates on Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025, please visit the DEF 2025 website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram and TikTok.
