Game Changer: Saudi Arabia’s eSports Revolution
Creating 40,000 Jobs and Hosting 250 eSports Companies: Saudi Arabia's Economic Ambitions in eSports
In the heart of Riyadh, amidst the gleaming towers and bustling streets, HRH Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation during Outer Edge Riyadh, unveiled a vision that would redefine the Kingdom’s future. With determination in his voice, he declared that eSports would not only entertain but also elevate Saudi Arabia onto the global stage of innovation and prosperity.
As he sat down for the firechat with Yat Sui, the co-founder and executive chairman of Animoca Brands, Prince Faisal articulated his ambitious plans for the Kingdom’s eSports industry. “eSports will contribute 1% to Saudi Arabia’s GDP,” he proclaimed, emphasizing the economic significance of this burgeoning sector. With a target of creating 40,000 jobs and hosting 250 eSports companies within the Kingdom, Prince Faisal outlined a roadmap for sustainable growth and prosperity.
. In October 2023, HRH Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister of Saudi Arabia, had unveiled plans for the largest eSports event in the world. Scheduled to be held annually in Riyadh every summer, starting from 2024, the eSports World Cup would be a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to becoming a global hub for eSports.
Prince Faisal’s vision was clear: to transform Riyadh into the eSports capital of the world. With state-of-the-art facilities, unparalleled infrastructure, and unwavering support from the government, Saudi Arabia would host a spectacle like no other. The eSports World Cup would not only attract top talent from around the globe but also showcase the Kingdom’s potential to the world.
As the conversation unfolded, Prince Faisal’s passion for eSports shone through. He envisioned a future where eSports would not only entertain millions but also inspire a new generation of Saudi youth. Through gaming, he believed, Saudi Arabia could foster innovation, creativity, and unity, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow.
With each word spoken, Prince Faisal reaffirmed his commitment to the Kingdom’s eSports revolution. The stage was set, the players were ready, and Saudi Arabia was poised to make history.
