17-04-2025
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.
