From Dunes To Virtual Arenas: the Rise Of Esports In MENA

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by Ashas Bukhari

From Dunes To Virtual Arenas: the Rise Of Esports In MENA

24 Feb 2024

The growing popularity of esports in the MENA region, especially in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, has been remarkable. From captivating tournaments like the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia to magnificent sporting events in the Dubai World Trade Centre, the region has embraced competitive gaming with unparalleled enthusiasm.

Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa command over 56 per cent of the global esports market. With a staggering 377 million gamers within the Middle East alone, the region has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in the gaming arena.

Saudi Arabia and the UAE stand at the forefront of this burgeoning esports landscape. Both nations have made substantial investments in infrastructure, talent cultivation, and hosting premier tournaments. Their unwavering dedication to nurturing esports growth has propelled them to international acclaim, drawing players, teams, and spectators from across the globe.

In this exploration of esports' phenomenal rise in the MENA region, we delve into the remarkable strides made by Saudi Arabia and the UAE.

The esports scene in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, esports has exploded in popularity, with local tournaments, growing teams, and highly skilled players. The country has become a hub for esports events, including prestigious tournaments like Gamers Without Borders, attracting top players worldwide.

In 2022, Saudi Arabia stood out as the MENA region's leader in gaming revenue distribution, commanding an impressive 58.7% share of the total revenue. Projections indicate that the region's gaming revenue is poised to soar to approximately 2.8 billion US dollars by 2026.

Furthermore, individuals like Musaad “Falcon” AlDossary have propelled Saudi Arabia's esports prowess onto the global stage, clinching prestigious championships and proudly representing the nation. Witnessing the flourishing local esports community and its profound impact on the global arena is undeniably inspiring.

Instagram: @teamfalconsgg

Efforts to grow esports in Saudi Arabia

In Saudi Arabia, the promotion of esports has been significantly bolstered by the concerted efforts of both organisations and government initiatives. The Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS), among other key entities, has been at the forefront of nurturing and regulating the esports sector. Through their proactive measures, such as organising tournaments, offering training programs, and championing local talent, they have played a pivotal role in fostering the industry's growth.

Furthermore, governmental recognition of esports' potential has catalysed tangible support mechanisms. The General Sports Authority has been pivotal in this regard, spearheading the establishment of esports leagues and allocating funding for pivotal esports events. These collaborative endeavours have collectively laid the groundwork for a supportive ecosystem conducive to the advancement of esports in Saudi Arabia. Consequently, this has not only cultivated a vibrant community but also created unprecedented opportunities for aspiring players and teams. Witnessing such synergy between various stakeholders is a testament to the remarkable momentum propelling the growth of esports in the country.

Saudi Arabian players achieve global recognition

Saudi Arabian esports players have carved out a formidable presence on the global stage, exemplified by the remarkable achievements of Musaad "Falcon" AlDossary. AlDossary's historic triumph at the 2018 FIFA World Cup stands as a beacon of inspiration for gamers worldwide.

Beyond AlDossary, other Saudi Arabian esports luminaries have also left their mark in the industry. Ziad Alghamdi, known as "vZiad9," is a notable figure in the fighting game community, particularly renowned for his prowess in titles like Street Fighter V. His stellar performances in international tournaments serve as a testament to his skill and fervour for competitive gaming, further inspiring gamers across the nation.

Instagram: @vziad9

These individuals, alongside their peers, continue to elevate the profile of Saudi Arabian esports, serving as role models for aspiring gamers nationwide. Their achievements serve as a testament to the burgeoning talent pool within the country's esports landscape, fuelling excitement and anticipation for the future.

Moreover, the success of prominent esports organisations like NASR esports further underscores the prowess and dedication of Saudi Arabian esports teams. With notable performances in international tournaments, these teams showcase the depth of talent and the competitive spirit that characterises Saudi Arabian esports, signalling a promising future on the global stage.

The growing popularity of esports in Saudi Arabia

In recent years, esports have surged in popularity within Saudi Arabia. By 2022, the predominant age group engaging in esports gaming in the country ranged from 18 to 24 years old. Gender distribution in Saudi Arabia's esports landscape skewed towards male participants; however, within the broader digital gaming realm, female gamers outnumbered males in the same year.

FIFA stands as the reigning champion of esports in Saudi Arabia, capturing the hearts of 38 per cent of gamers, according to a 2022 survey. Following closely behind is Call of Duty, securing approximately 27 per cent of the votes.

The esports scene in Dubai

The esports scene in the UAE, particularly in cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is flourishing and expanding at a rapid pace. The nation has witnessed a surge in esports tournaments, events, including the Dubai Esports Festival (DEF) 2023 and EMG 2023 in Abu Dhabi. Recognising its potential to attract international talent and bolster tourism, the government has been actively supporting the industry.

The UAE esports community is lively and dedicated, boasting a strong presence in popular titles like Dota 2, League of Legends, CS: GO, and FIFA. In 2022, the esports scene in the UAE experienced a dynamic period, with 46.8 per cent of esports gamers falling within the age bracket of 25 to 34.

UAE esports teams

Dubai has emerged as a breeding ground for formidable esports teams that have earned acclaim both locally and globally. Among these standout teams is NASR esports, hailing from Dubai, renowned for their triumphs in games such as Dota 2, CS: GO, and League of Legends.

Galaxy Racer is another team that stands out with its robust presence across various esports titles, captivating audiences with its exceptional players.

Gamers Without Borders, Middle East Games Con, and more

In Saudi Arabia, the Gamers Without Borders tournament has captured widespread attention, spotlighting beloved titles like Dota 2 and Fortnite. Concurrently, the Saudi Esports Federation has orchestrated the Saudi Arabian e-League, a platform that not only showcases local talent but also fosters competitive spirit among players.

Transitioning to the UAE, the Middle East Games Con has emerged as a prominent fixture, hosting prestigious esports competitions and attracting top-tier players from across the globe. Moreover, the GIRLGAMER Festival has been instrumental in celebrating the achievements of female gamers. These tournaments and festivities have significantly elevated the stature of Saudi Arabia and the UAE in the global esports realm.

Infrastructure developments for MENA esports

Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE have undertaken significant infrastructure enhancements to bolster the esports landscape. In Saudi Arabia, the General Sports Authority has spearheaded the establishment of specialised gaming zones like the Riyadh Front, equipped with cutting-edge facilities tailored for esports competitions and training. These zones serve as professional hubs where gamers can refine their skills and engage with like-minded enthusiasts.

Similarly, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have established dedicated esports spaces, like Play DXB in Dubai Mall, Game On at Rails Dubai in the Jumeirah Lake Towers and Abu Dhabi Gaming in the nation’s capital. These facilities offer gamers access to premium equipment, comprehensive training amenities, and a dynamic community environment conducive to the flourishing of the esports scene.

The commitment to infrastructure development in both nations underscores their recognition of the pivotal role esports plays and their unwavering support for the gaming community. It is truly thrilling to witness these advancements shaping the trajectory of esports in the region.

Booming investments

Local organisations and investors in Saudi Arabia and the UAE have emerged as proactive champions of the esports industry. Recognising the boundless potential and burgeoning popularity of esports, they have embarked on substantial investment ventures aimed at cultivating infrastructure, nurturing talent, and amplifying opportunities within the region.

These investments encompass a spectrum of initiatives, ranging from lucrative sponsorship agreements to strategic partnerships with esports teams, and the establishment of bespoke esports academies and training hubs. Notably, entities such as the Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS) and the UAE esports Federation have played pivotal roles in galvanising esports growth through their visionary investments and pioneering initiatives.

Beyond fortifying the professional esports ecosystem, these investments also serve to cultivate and champion grassroots talent, fostering a vibrant and inclusive landscape. The unwavering commitment and support demonstrated by local organisations and investors herald an exciting era of transformation and innovation in the regional esports sphere.

Challenges to the esports industry

One prominent challenge is the need for further infrastructure development. Despite notable progress in fostering gaming communities and hosting events, additional investment in esports facilities and purpose-built gaming arenas is essential to support the industry's expansion.

Another hurdle lies in talent retention and acknowledgement. Despite the presence of skilled players and teams in both countries, they often struggle to garner recognition and support. Establishing structured pathways for aspiring players, offering comprehensive training programs, and creating platforms for them to exhibit their abilities would aid in nurturing and retaining talent.

Moreover, enhancing awareness and legitimising esports as a viable career choice is imperative. This necessitates educating the public, parents, and institutions about the myriad benefits and opportunities inherent in pursuing a career in esports.

By proactively addressing these challenges and continuing to invest in infrastructure, talent development, and recognition, the esports industry in Saudi Arabia and the UAE can thrive, paving the way for a robust and flourishing esports ecosystem.

Outlook of esports in the MENA Region

The future of esports in the MENA region holds immense promise, presenting boundless opportunities for growth and advancement within the industry.

Firstly, the potential for further expansion in infrastructure and investment is substantial. Continued development of dedicated esports arenas, gaming facilities, and high-speed internet infrastructure will lay the foundation for a thriving ecosystem, facilitating more seamless and immersive esports events and competitions.

Secondly, prioritising talent development and recognition remains pivotal. Implementing robust training programs, mentorship initiatives, and talent-scouting platforms will empower aspiring players to hone their skills and showcase their capabilities, thereby enhancing their visibility and opening doors to professional opportunities.

Moreover, cultivating a vibrant esports community through localised and regional events, tournaments, and leagues will bolster industry growth. By attracting a diverse array of players and engaging a broader audience, including enthusiasts and sponsors, the ecosystem can flourish organically.

Additionally, fostering collaboration among esports organisations, game developers, and educational institutions holds great potential. Integrating esports into academic curricula, offering scholarships for esports athletes, and forging partnerships for research and development can foster innovation and drive the industry forward collectively.

Lastly, dispelling misconceptions and raising awareness about esports as a legitimate and viable career path is imperative. Educating the public, parents, and institutions about the myriad opportunities and benefits that esports offer will foster a supportive environment conducive to the aspirations of budding players.

In conclusion, the future of esports in the MENA region shines brightly and is characterised by vast potential, innovation, and collaborative efforts. By capitalising on opportunities and addressing areas for improvement, the region can chart a course towards substantial progress and success in the dynamic world of esports.

by Ashas Bukhari