04-08-2025
Over 400 join Oman REFCO Esports Championship, fuelling digital ambitions
MUSCAT: The Oman REFCO Esports Championship concluded on August 1, bringing together over 400 participants in the largest esports event of its kind in Oman.
Organised by Oman REFCO and the Omani Gaming & Esports Committee, in partnership with Active Oman, E-sports Arena, and the Oman Automobile Association (OAA), the championship marked a milestone in advancing youth engagement and digital innovation. The event served as a vibrant platform to foster digital skills, inspire innovation and fuel the aspirations of a new generation of tech-savvy Omanis.
The championship underscored Oman's growing commitment to creating a knowledge-based economy by nurturing digital competencies and fostering high-potential sectors such as esports and gaming.
'Public-private partnerships are vital to nurturing young talent and developing their skills across diverse sectors,' said Saba al Busaidy, Head of the Omani Gaming & Esports Committee.
'This collaboration stands as a model for empowering Omani youth. Through the Oman REFCO Esports Championship, we are creating meaningful opportunities for young individuals to sharpen their competitive edge while contributing to the larger vision of building a resilient, digitally empowered society.'
The championship featured competitions in FIFA 25, Tekken and Assetto Corsa, with each category drawing large crowds, fierce competition and enthusiastic support. Beyond the games, the participants engaged in motivational workshops designed to deepen their understanding of the global esports industry, potential career paths and digital entrepreneurship.
Suleiman bin Abdullah al Salmi, Head of Human Resources and Corporate Services at Oman REFCO, commented: 'At Oman REFCO, we see youth as the cornerstone of Oman's future. Supporting this championship is part of our broader mission to elevate the gaming sector from a recreational pastime into a viable professional and economic contributor. Through sustained collaboration with the Omani Gaming & Esports Committee, we're building momentum towards a dynamic digital ecosystem where youth can thrive and lead.'
The event was sponsored by Brig Jamal bin Said al Tai, Chairman, OAA and Active Oman. A long-time advocate for youth engagement, Brig Al Tai praised the initiative for channelling youthful energy into positive, forward-looking pursuits.
'The OAA and Active Oman are proud to back an event that promotes digital readiness among our youth. As esports continues to grow globally, it is vital that Omani youth are equipped to participate, compete and represent our country on international platforms,' he said.
In addition to sponsoring the event, the OAA and Active Oman played a key role in ensuring seamless event execution by supporting logistics, promotions and technical infrastructure. The Oman REFCO Esports Championship was a launchpad for emerging local talent, many of whom are now being considered for inclusion in Oman's national esports team.
As the esports sector continues to evolve globally, Oman REFCO reaffirmed its commitment to investing in youth and positioning digital innovation as a central pillar of the country's future.
