Dubai, the new Mecca for e-gaming 

23-08-23

Dubai has established itself as a thriving global hub for e-sports and gaming following the spectacular conclusion of the second edition of the Dubai E-sports and Games Festival (DEF), which attracted a record attendance of more than 27,000 people during the exciting five-day event and brought together more than 75,000 gamers from around the world.

DEF 2023, held from 21-25 June 2023, showcased the diversity of the gaming community, attracting casual gamers, eSports enthusiasts and industry professionals through key events. This included the GameExpo B2B Summit powered by Pocket Gamer Connects (PG), the Game Expo consumer programme, Regional Educational Tournaments and the Play Beyond Influencers Tournament. Key sponsors and partners, including Xbox, Ubisoft, Capcom, Teleios, Emirates Airline, Kitkat, Alienwar, Playstation, Redbull, Logitech and Moonton, also contributed to the festival's success.

Dubai's role as a global gaming hub was highlighted through the dedication of stakeholders in supporting gaming communities in the UAE and beyond, which had a significant impact on the global gaming and eSports industry.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, commented: "The tremendous success of DEF 2023 further reinforces Dubai's position as a global gaming hub. The record attendance and diverse gaming community demonstrated Dubai's commitment to becoming a leading destination for gamers from around the world and reflects the Dubai Economic Agenda D33's goal of transforming Dubai into one of the world's top three cities for tourism and business."

Dubai continues to strengthen its position as a key player in the gaming industry. As the gaming sector grows exponentially, with the gaming market valued at $546.99 billion, growing at a CAGR of 13.19% by 2030[1], DEF 2024, scheduled from 1-5 May, further underlines Dubai's commitment to innovation and growth of the eSports and gaming industries on a global scale.

DEF unites gaming enthusiasts of all ages, empowering talent and fostering eSports communities in the UAE and beyond. As a convergence point for media, gaming, eSports, technology and entertainment, the festival showcases Dubai's dedication to innovation and its vision for the future of gaming.

As the gaming industry thrives and evolves, Dubai is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping its future and unlocking its full potential on the global stage.