Technology news and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
Technology News and insights in the Middle East, South Asia, and Africa
The Saudi eLeagues 2026 season features a $1 million+ prize pool and a new four-tier structure, including a dedicated women’s league and a fighting game circuit, to foster professional and grassroots growth across 20+ gaming titles.
The Esports World Cup 2026 will feature a record $75m prize pool, with $30m dedicated to the Club Championship and $7m for the winning Club. Hosted in Riyadh over seven weeks, the event will unite 2,000 players across 24 titles, cementing Saudi Arabia’s role in global esports.
The MENA gaming market is expanding rapidly, led by sports, battle royale, RPG, and action-adventure games. Football titles dominate sports gaming, while PUBG and shooter games lead mobile playtime. RPGs generate the highest revenues, especially in Gulf countries. Puzzle, MOBA, and racing games also maintain strong regional engagement as mobile gaming continues to drive overall market growth.
Jordan’s gaming market reached $312.8 million in 2024 and is projected to double by 2030. Backed by royal initiatives, education programs, and the National Games Strategy, the sector is driving job creation, investment, and digital innovation across the Kingdom.
Saudi Esports Federation has signed an MoU with Riot Games to develop Saudi Arabia’s gaming ecosystem through tournaments, education, and community programs. Backed by Vision 2030 and PIF initiatives, the partnership strengthens the Kingdom’s position as a global esports hub.
Zong Engage’s Manhunt 2 PUBG Mobile Tournament drew 21,000 players and 1,300 teams, becoming Pakistan’s biggest esports event. With international participation and major partnerships, Zong continues to power youth innovation and elevate the country’s digital entertainment landscape.
Oman has signed an MoU with Nova Technology to develop its esports ecosystem through the WAJH platform, a new Esports Academy, and major gaming tournaments. The initiative aims to position Oman as a regional esports hub, empower youth, and support innovation under Oman Vision 2040.
Zain Bahrain will host the Bahrain National Qualifiers for the FIFAe World Cup on September 5–6, 2025, at Zain Esports Lab. Featuring mobile and console competitions, the event highlights Zain’s esports leadership and provides Bahraini gamers aged 16+ with a chance to compete on the global stage.
stc deployed over 1,295 antennas, including indoor solutions, to provide robust 4G and 5G connectivity at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, connecting over 3 million users. The initiative supports Saudi Arabia’s esports ambitions and includes staff training programs to build digital skills.
Pakistan’s Ministry of IT held a meeting with the Commonwealth Secretariat and British Esports Federation to create a National Esports Policy and form a federation. The goal is to boost youth engagement, digital skills, and game commercialization, helping Pakistani developers break into global markets.