Saudi Arabia is ramping up its push into the gaming and esports world with billions in investments, aiming to become a global hub by 2030. This move, driven by Vision 2030, targets job creation and economic diversification as the kingdom hosts major events and buys into top companies in 2025.
Economic Impact of Gaming Investments
Saudi Arabia’s gaming sector generated about 1.2 billion dollars in revenue in 2024, capturing 20 percent of the Middle East and North Africa market. Experts predict this will climb to 1.64 billion dollars by 2028, fueled by a young population where 67 percent are gamers.
This growth ties into the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which plans to add 13.3 billion dollars to the GDP and create 39,000 jobs by 2030. The strategy focuses on building a full value chain, from game development to events, drawing in global talent.
Local initiatives, like training programs and infrastructure projects, support this rise. For instance, the kingdom’s emphasis on 5G and AI boosts digital entertainment, making it a key player in the region’s cultural shift.
Key Investments Driving the Sector
The Public Investment Fund, through Savvy Games Group, has poured 38 billion dollars into gaming since 2022. This includes buying Scopely for 4.9 billion dollars, the maker of Monopoly Go, which earned 3 billion dollars in 2024.
Saudi Arabia also holds stakes in Embracer Group at 8.1 percent, ESL FACEIT Group, and others like Hero Esports. These moves secure a foothold in mobile, console, and competitive gaming.
In 2025, the focus expands to partnerships with international firms, attracting developers from Asia, Europe, and the US. This strategy not only buys influence but also builds local studios and talent pools.
A recent highlight is the investment in esports infrastructure, such as the planned esports city in Riyadh, estimated at 500 million dollars. This project aims to train local players and host world-class tournaments.
Major Events Boosting Global Profile
The Esports World Cup in Riyadh drew over 2,000 players from more than 100 countries in 2025, with a 70 million dollar prize pool. This event, up from 60 million dollars in 2024, welcomed 2.6 million visitors and sold 40 percent of tickets to international fans.
Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025, a partnership with the International Olympic Committee. This marks a big step in blending esports with traditional sports.
These gatherings showcase the kingdom’s commitment and draw global attention. They also create business chances, like sponsorships and tech collaborations, strengthening ties with major leagues.
Future Projections and Challenges
By 2030, the global esports market could hit 1.86 billion dollars in revenue, nearly double from 2020. Saudi Arabia aims to claim a big share, with projections of 50 billion riyals in GDP contribution.
Experts from firms like PwC note the kingdom’s rapid rise, thanks to its 23.5 million gamers. Growth drivers include mobile gaming, which holds 24.2 percent market share, followed by PlayStation at 23.8 percent.
However, challenges remain, such as building skilled workforce and navigating global regulations. The kingdom addresses this through university programs in esports and game design.
| Year | Projected Gaming Revenue (Billion USD) | Key Milestone |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 1.2 | Savvy Games Group report highlights 20% MENA share |
| 2025 | 1.4 (estimated) | Olympic Esports Games hosted in Riyadh |
| 2028 | 1.64 | Market expansion driven by Vision 2030 |
| 2030 | Part of 13.3 GDP boost | 39,000 jobs created |
Opportunities for Local and Global Talent
Saudi Arabia’s push opens doors for developers and players worldwide. With events like Gamers8 offering 45 million dollar prizes in 2024, the scene attracts top pros.
Key benefits include:
- Job growth in tech, design, and event management.
- Training hubs fostering local talent in AI and VR for games.
- Partnerships with countries like Japan and China for shared expertise.
This blend of investment and events positions the kingdom as a leader, blending entertainment with economic goals.
What do you think about Saudi Arabia’s gaming surge? Share your thoughts in the comments and pass this article to fellow gamers for more discussion.
