Saudi Arabia is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in the gaming and esports industry, leveraging cultural heritage, economic ambition, and cutting-edge technology to transform the sector.
At the heart of this transformation is Riyadh, home to the annual Esports World Cup, the largest global event of its kind, bringing together elite gamers and fans from across the world.
Read: Saudi Arabia imports 2.4 million video game consoles in 2 years, 684,489 units so far in 2025
The evolution of play: From tradition to technology
Games have always been an intrinsic part of human culture, evolving from ancient physical activities into today’s digital experiences.
Cultural advisor Ghada Aba Al-Khail notes that early humans used games to simulate life and hone survival skills, while Dr. Maha Al Khashil, a historian, sees play as a tool for discovery, creativity, and connection.
Today, games transcend entertainment — acting as a form of soft power that strengthens cultural awareness, fosters skills, and unites generations.
The transition from traditional games to digital platforms mirrors humanity’s journey from survival to sophisticated innovation.
Riyadh: Home of the Esports World Cup
Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gaming is most visible through the launch of the Esports World Cup, an annual tournament held in Riyadh since 2024. Spearheaded by His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, the initiative is expected to contribute SAR 50 billion to GDP by 2030 and create 39,000 new jobs.
This bold investment reflects the kingdom’s goal to position Riyadh as the capital of global esports, further diversifying the economy in line with Vision 2030.
Nostalgia and the digital shift
Traditional games like hopscotch and carrom still resonate with many Saudis, evoking memories of dirt lots and schoolyards. Aba Al-Khail highlights how these games taught cooperation and social values, acting as early life training grounds.
The 1980s saw the introduction of gaming consoles like the Atari, shifting play from the streets to living rooms. These consoles didn’t just bring new forms of entertainment; they marked a cultural shift. Re-releases of classic games now serve as digital archives, preserving a society’s transformation through play.
Games as cultural bridges
Games, both traditional and digital, carry deep cultural significance. According to Dr. Al Khashil, they reflect language, values, and identity, while offering a compelling way to engage with history. Historical games, for example, often outsell documentaries or books — proving that young people prefer learning through interaction.
Saudi developers are now embracing this format to promote local heritage. Games like “Unearthed: Trail of Ibn Battuta” and “Abo Khashem” integrate Saudi streets, dialects, and symbols, building a “digital memory” that resonates globally.
This exchange is reciprocal — Saudis participating in global games act as cultural ambassadors, offering the world a fresh perspective of their country.
A global esports hub in the making
Saudi Arabia’s efforts are already yielding measurable success. The 2025 Esports World Cup hosted over 2,000 players from more than 100 countries, competing for a $70 million prize pool. The tournament boosted the local economy, spurred demand for gaming hardware, and attracted global attention.
Globally, the esports market includes 3.4 billion players and is expected to reach 640 million viewers by 2027. The kingdom’s role in this growing sector solidifies its status as a key player on the world stage.
Infrastructure and import growth
Strong infrastructure complements Saudi Arabia’s gaming ambitions. According to the Communications, Space and Technology Commission (CST), response times for popular games have improved by 88 percent, while download speeds have increased significantly.
Meanwhile, data from the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority reveals that over 2.4 million video game consoles were imported in 2024 and 2025 — a clear indicator of local demand and readiness to support a thriving gaming ecosystem.
A safe and regulated gaming environment
The kingdom has also invested in regulation and content safety. The General Authority for Media Regulation works closely with global publishers to classify games before release using the Saudi age rating system — the first of its kind in the Middle East.
Introduced in 2016, it features six age categories (3, 7, 12, 16, 18, and 21+) and classifies games within one to three business days. To date, more than 3,700 games have been rated, with over 700 added annually — balancing market growth with cultural values and child protection.
National strategy for gaming and esports
The kingdom’s long-term commitment is guided by the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched on September 15, 2022. It includes 86 initiatives managed by 20 government and private sector entities, covering everything from game production to education, legislation, and financial support.
Among the most ambitious projects is Qiddiya City, envisioned as a living embodiment of the slogan “Play Life”. Designed to transform entertainment into a cultural and economic force, it is a cornerstone of Vision 2030’s drive to diversify the economy and create forward-looking opportunities.
Saudi Arabia’s game plan for the future
Saudi Arabia is not just participating in the global gaming and esports industry; it is shaping its future. Through strategic investments, cultural storytelling, and infrastructure development, the kingdom is redefining what it means to play, compete, and connect in the 21st century.
As Riyadh continues to host record-breaking tournaments and foster a new generation of Saudi game developers, the country is building more than a digital industry — it’s building a new cultural identity rooted in both tradition and innovation.
