The Middle East has long been a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, and the gaming industry is no exception. In recent years, the region has seen a significant surge in gaming adoption, with a growing number of gamers and a thriving esports scene. In this blog post, we’ll explore the current state of gaming in the Middle East, highlighting the trends that are driving growth and innovation in the industry.
Gaming Popularity on the Rise
According to a recent report by Newzoo, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region saw a 10% year-on-year increase in gaming revenue in 2022, reaching $1.3 billion. This growth is largely driven by the increasing popularity of mobile gaming, which accounted for 63% of the region’s gaming revenue in 2022.
The UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt are the top three gaming markets in the region, with the UAE accounting for 44% of the MENA region’s gaming revenue. The country’s gaming market is expected to continue growing, driven by the increasing popularity of esports and the launch of new gaming platforms.
Esports on the Rise
Esports is a growing phenomenon in the Middle East, with the region hosting several major esports events in recent years. The Saudi Arabian government has invested heavily in esports, launching the Saudi Esports Federation in 2018. The federation has since organized several major esports events, including the Saudi Arabian Pro League and the Riyadh Masters.
The UAE has also seen significant growth in the esports sector, with the Dubai Esports Festival attracting thousands of visitors in 2022. The festival featured a range of esports competitions, including Overwatch and League of Legends.
Gaming in the Workplace
Gaming is no longer just a hobby, it’s also a serious business in the Middle East. Several major companies in the region, including Saudi Aramco and Dubai-based Damac Properties, have launched gaming initiatives aimed at boosting employee engagement and productivity.
Gaming at work is becoming increasingly popular, with 71% of employees in the UAE reporting that they play games during their free time, according to a survey by the market research firm, YouGov. The survey found that gaming can have a positive impact on employee morale and productivity, with 63% of respondents reporting that gaming helps them to relax and recharge.
Gaming Education and Training
The Middle East is home to several leading gaming academies and training institutions, including the Dubai-based Gaming University and the Saudi Arabian Gaming Academy. These institutions offer a range of courses and programs aimed at educating and training the next generation of gamers and game developers.
The Gaming University, for example, offers a range of undergraduate and postgraduate courses in game development, game design, and esports management. The university has partnered with several major gaming companies, including Electronic Arts and Ubisoft, to provide its students with hands-on experience and industry connections.
Conclusion
The gaming industry in the Middle East is booming, driven by growing demand for mobile gaming, esports, and gaming education. As the industry continues to grow and evolve, we can expect to see even more innovative and exciting developments in the region. Whether you’re a gamer, a game developer, or just someone who’s interested in the gaming industry, there’s never been a better time to be involved in the Middle East’s gaming scene.
Key Statistics
* The MENA region saw a 10% year-on-year increase in gaming revenue in 2022, reaching $1.3 billion.
* Mobile gaming accounted for 63% of the region’s gaming revenue in 2022.
* The UAE accounted for 44% of the MENA region’s gaming revenue in 2022.
* 71% of employees in the UAE report that they play games during their free time.
* 63% of respondents reported that gaming helps them to relax and recharge.
Sources
* Newzoo: MENA Gaming Market Report 2022
* YouGov: UAE Gaming Survey 2022
* Saudi Esports Federation: Riyadh Masters 2022
* Dubai Esports Festival: Dubai Esports Festival 2022
* Gaming University: Gaming University Website
* Saudi Arabian Gaming Academy: Saudi Arabian Gaming Academy Website