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Saudi Gazette
27-05-2025
- Sport
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi Arabia is leading the of esports on the global stage
The ES TIMES — During a session titled "Driving Global Growth: Esports and Sports from a Vision 2030 Perspective," Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan spoke about the evolution of esports to become a key component of Saudi Arabia's development. Esports in Saudi Arabia is not just entertainment; it supports innovation, empowers youth, and adds long-term value to the gaming community in the region and globally. Saudi Arabia has taken bold steps. Launching the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, hosting the Esports World Cup Foundation, and investing in projects like Qiddiya, Prince Faisal said, "We're not waiting for the future, we're creating it." Through the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), he has built a structured ecosystem that develops talent and supports every gamer and creator to thrive. A Thriving Gaming Nation Today, 67% of Saudis consider themselves gamers. With this reality in mind, the goal is clear: for the Kingdom to become the world's premier destination for gaming and esports by 2030. The 18th Edition: A Global Gathering This edition of the International Olympic Academy Congress brought together 150 enthusiastic participants from five continents. Organized by the International Olympic Academy to expand its global Olympic education network, it began with a symbolic visit to the archaeological site of ancient Messenia, connecting the past with the Olympic values. During the opening ceremony, Charilaos Tsolakis, President of the IOA, and Isidoros Kouvelos, President of the HOC, affirmed their shared commitment to the values of the Olympics. Furthermore, they highlighted the importance of education, the role of innovation, and international cooperation as fundamental principles at the heart of this initiative. Esports in Focus The day concluded with an inspiring keynote address and a panel discussion. The discussion was led by Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, President of the International Esports Federation, and Makis Asimakopoulos, Director of the IOA. They discussed how digital competitions can align with the Olympic values and even enhance the Olympic spirit, encouraging attendees to consider esports as a cultural force. 19 Olympic Esports Games 2025: A Historic Milestone According to the recent announcement by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), Saudi Arabia will host the first Olympic Esports Games in 2025. This move represents a new chapter in the global recognition of esports. With more than 23.5 million players, Saudi Arabia is emerging as a global powerhouse. Esports plays a vital role in social transformation, with nearly half of the gamers in the Kingdom being women. Since the launch of Vision 2030 in 2016, we have seen continued progress in empowering women. Princess Reema Bandar Al-Saud, IOC Member and Chair of the Women in Sport Commission, commended this trend, saying: "The rise in women's participation in esports is exciting. I look forward to the Olympic Esports Games as an opportunity to engage more women in a safe and inclusive environment." SEF: At the forefront of the digital revolution Established in 2017, the Saudi Esports Federation has spearheaded the sector's advancement. Prince Faisal stated, "We aim to develop talent and encourage both personal and professional growth." With strong government support, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has committed $38 billion to the gaming sector, which is expected to create 39,000 jobs, support 250 developers, and add $13.33 billion to the national economy by 2030. Strategic Investments and Global Partnerships Savvy Games Group, owned by PIF, is actively forging international partnerships. Their $4.9 billion acquisition of mobile developer Scopely in 2023 demonstrates their long-term ambitions. Prince Faisal explained, "We aim to be a global hub for gaming and esports." In 2023, SEF hosted Gamers8 in Riyadh, which featured a record-breaking $45 million in prizes. Building on this remarkable success, Saudi Arabia is preparing for a new and ambitious step, hosting the Esports World Cup in 2025, reflecting the continued expansion of its strategy to support and develop the global gaming and esports sector. Promoting Education and Skills Through Gaming Gaming is not just entertainment - it's a tool for growth. Prince Faisal believes that gaming can foster creativity, teamwork, and strategic thinking. There are plans to integrate gaming into the education sector. A Nation Ready to Lead Indeed, Saudi Arabia is not only building events and strategies, but is confidently moving toward shaping a future where gaming and esports reach new heights. By investing in the energy of its youth, its ambitious vision, and its unwavering commitment, the Kingdom is not only participating in this global transformation - it is leading the way, shaping the next phase with confidence and creativity. On July 13, 2024, the International Olympic Committee officially confirmed that Saudi Arabia will host the first Olympic Esports Games. Prince Faisal enthusiastically commented: "We are proud to be part of writing a new chapter in Olympic history." IOC President Thomas Bach echoed this sentiment, praising the expertise of the Saudi Olympic Committee. He also expressed his firm confidence in its ability to deliver an inspiring and innovative Olympic Esports Games, reflecting the remarkable development of the Kingdom's standing on the global sports scene. Raouf Belhamra – Esports and Gaming writer
Indian Express
01-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Opinion Saudi Arabia and India — together let's ready, steady, esports
As global media and entertainment leaders convene at the WAVES Summit in Mumbai, few topics unite us like the rise of games and esports. WAVES is more than a gathering — it is a platform to forge new partnerships, exchange ideas, and unlock the potential of emerging economies, including India. In Saudi Arabia, we have seen how games can bridge cultures and create opportunities. Guided by HRH the Crown Prince's Vision 2030, we are fostering a unified, nationwide gaming strategy. It is apparent from the scale and thematic expanse of WAVES that Prime Minister Narendra Modi has a similar vision. As such, the summit marks a timely opportunity to deepen ties between our countries and shape a future led by new voices and alliances. Under the guidance of Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia views games and esports as key pillars of our future economy. Our National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022, aims to transform the Kingdom into a leading global hub by 2030, with concrete goals including over 39,000 jobs, a $13-billion GDP contribution, and more than 100 professional teams already active among our 21 million gamers. One of our flagship initiatives, the Esports World Cup, announced by His Royal Highness Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in 2023, debuted in Riyadh with 200 clubs, 1,500 athletes, two million visitors, and 500 million viewers. Beyond competition, the Esports World Cup symbolises how innovation, investment, and international collaboration can come together to shape a thriving, future-focused industry. This goal of nurturing global partnerships is reflected in gatherings like the WAVES Summit and events such as the New Global Sport Conference (NGSC), returning in 2025 to deepen collaboration in the space. Saudi Arabia and India recognise that the future belongs to nations investing not only in infrastructure, but in building ecosystems where technology, creativity, and talent intersect. Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Prime Minister Modi, our countries are uniquely aligned in this belief. As we showcase our unified gaming strategy at WAVES, our message is one of partnership and possibility. We are demonstrating how government support, private investment, and global cooperation can work together. Saudi Arabia is excited to collaborate with India and other innovators to shape a future where gaming and esports reflect the diversity and ambition of the Global South. Achieving these bold ambitions requires not only investment in dollars but also investment in people. At the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), which I have the privilege to chair, we are building a platform where gaming drives youth innovation and career growth. We are proud that women now comprise nearly half of Saudi's gaming community, with programmes ensuring their full participation. What sets apart Saudi Arabia's approach is the unity across our gaming ecosystem — government, federations, investors, and private sector working together to meet Vision 2030 goals. This coordination reflects a deeper understanding that esports today sits at the intersection of technology, innovation, and entertainment — three pillars that also define India's ambition, as showcased at WAVES. Our collaboration extends globally through the Global Esports Federation and International Esports Federation, where I proudly serve as vice president and president. Saudi Arabia offers Indian developers a supportive launchpad and attracts gamers from across the Middle East, while our growing infrastructure provides Indian esports teams world-class venues, fuelling greater regional competition and collaboration. Ultimately, the story we are writing in Saudi Arabia is not just about one country's rise in gaming; it is about how collaboration and vision can unlock the potential of a gaming industry, turning esports into a platform for cross-cultural innovation and leadership. We invite our friends in India and around the world to join us in building an ecosystem where innovation thrives; where economic, social, and cultural benefits are shared by all. The coming years will be transformative. The global games industry is projected to reach $600 billion by 2030, and emerging markets like ours will be key drivers. Saudi Arabia is investing heavily to contribute to and benefit from this expansion, but collaboration is the cornerstone of our approach. We hope our experience offers insights to India's policymakers and industry leaders in nurturing a booming creative economy. To India's gamers and public, we extend an invitation — join our events, play in our tournaments, and help shape the future of gaming. Together, we can build a more innovative and inclusive gaming world. In the spirit of WAVES 2025, let us celebrate this new era of entertainment and work collectively to ensure the gaming revolution benefits communities everywhere.
Arab News
21-04-2025
- Sport
- Arab News
The ESL Saudi Challenge returns in 2025 with two editions
RIYADH: ESL FACEIT Group, the world's leading e-sports company, has announced the return of the ESL Saudi Challenge for 2025, with two editions confirmed for May and December. For the latest updates, follow us @ArabNewsSport The expansion is part of EFG's long-term commitment to Saudi Arabia's gaming ecosystem and supports the Kingdom's Vision 2030 and its National Gaming and Esports Strategy. Kicking off the 2025 season, the first round of open qualifiers will take place on April 24-26, followed by a second round scheduled for May 1-3. The competition will then advance to the playoffs on May 7-8 and 14-15, culminating in a live grand final at VOV Gaming on May 30. The ESL Saudi Challenge is a platform for emerging local talent to shine on the world stage, linking Saudi players with international opportunities and audiences. 'What's happening in the Kingdom today sets the tone for the future of global e-sports.' said Franck Guignery, senior vice president for the MENA region at EFG. 'We're witnessing a generation of players with world-class potential. The ESL Saudi Challenge is more than a tournament, it's a launchpad — a gateway that connects Saudi talent to the global esports arena. For the industry, this isn't just an opportunity — it's a turning point.' Each 2025 edition of the tournament will spotlight Overwatch 2 as its flagship title, with a $20,000 prize pool and offering winners a direct path to global competitions. This year's grand finals will culminate in a live showdown, bringing the region's top talent to the big stage.
Broadcast Pro
14-04-2025
- Business
- Broadcast Pro
Hawk Gaming Group and GLOE forge strategic esports partnership
The partnership supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and position the Kingdom as a global entertainment hub. Tokyo-based GLOE Inc. has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saudi Arabia's Hawk Gaming Group, marking a significant step toward strengthening ties between the gaming and esports industries in Japan and the Kingdom. The collaboration is set to accelerate growth in both markets, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 and its ambitions to become a global hub for gaming and digital entertainment. Under the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022 by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Kingdom aims to position the sector as a major contributor to the economy. Hawk Gaming Group chairman and CEO Turki Faisal said: 'Gamers are the driving force behind future economies. They are the centre of innovation, culture, and growth. Through our partnership with GLOE, we aim to unlock the full potential of Japan's world-class content and talent, not only within Saudi Arabia but on a global scale. Together, we'll create new economic opportunities, strengthen industry connections, and contribute to realizing Vision 2030.' Saudi Arabia's gaming sector is experiencing rapid expansion, generating $7.2bn in revenue in 2023, with a player base of 23.5m active gamers. The Kingdom is also preparing to host the first-ever Olympic Esports Games in 2027, with projections showing the esports sector could contribute $13.3bn to the GDP and create 39,000 jobs by 2030. Akihito Furusawa, GLOE Inc.'s co-CEO, said: 'While Japan has a wealth of exceptional game content, localization and cultural adaptation in the Middle East have been limited. With global interest in Saudi Arabia's esports scene at an all-time high, this is the perfect opportunity to bring Japanese games to the region. Together with Hawk Gaming Group, we will promote and expand Japanese gaming content across the Middle East.' The MoU outlines a framework for collaboration that includes intellectual property sharing, talent development, esports infrastructure and business opportunities. Together, the two companies aim to create a dynamic, cross-cultural exchange that enriches both gaming communities and contributes to the global evolution of esports.
Leaders
12-04-2025
- Business
- Leaders
SEF Arena: New Destination for Esports Fans in Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia has officially launched the SEF Arena, the world's largest gaming and Esports zone, heralding a new era for Esports in the Kingdom. During a press conference, the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) announced the inauguration of the SEF Arena, located in Boulevard City Riyadh, according to the Saudi Press Agency (SPA). لحظات خالدة من الحدث التاريخي.. افتتاح #SEFArena، أول أرينا متكاملة للرياضات الإلكترونية في المملكة🤩 يوم سيبقى محفورًا بالتاريخ✨#موطن_التفوق — الاتحاد السعودي للرياضات الإلكترونية (@Saudi_Esports) April 11, 2025 On this occasion, the CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation, Turki Alfawzan, highlighted the significance of the SEF Arena as a key milestone in Saudi Arabia's history of gaming and Esports, serving as a platform for showcasing Saudi youth's potential and talent in this sector. It also aims to inspire future generations and encourage investments. Alfawzan added that the inauguration of the SEF Arena is a major stride towards achieving the objectives of the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched by the Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman. Moreover, the SEF Arena will be a hub for innovation and development in the gaming and Esports sector by harnessing cutting-edge technologies, Alfawzan said. After the press conference, the Saudi Esports Federation signed numerous memoranda of understanding (MoUs) with several leading Saudi entities and clubs. These partnerships support the sector's growth and sustainability, providing job opportunities for talents and the graduates of the Saudi Esports Academy. The SEF Arena boasts an advanced design and infrastructure, with state-of-the-art facilities that cater to the needs of gaming and Esports fans. It includes flexible 11,000 sqm Esports stages for major events; SEF Academy for training the next generation of Saudi talents; SEF Studio for producing and broadcasting high-quality content and live event coverage; and event halls and shared spaces for industry events and activities. Moreover, the SEF Arena provides a platform for hosting domestic competitive leagues, such as the Saudi ELeague Elites, Women's League, Fighting League and Challenger League. Short link : Post Views: 59
