Sony has launched the MENA Hero Project, an incubator program designed to support game developers in the Middle East and North Africa. The initiative offers mentorship, training, and project-based investment to developers in several MENA countries, aiming to lower entry barriers and showcase emerging talent in the region’s gaming market.
Google’s Director for Pakistan, Farhan S Qureshi, highlighted the growth potential of Pakistan’s app and gaming sector at Think Apps 2024 in Lahore. The event focused on equipping developers with AI tools to drive innovation. Pakistani studios are leading the field, contributing to the country’s potential $6.6 billion digital export revenue by 2030.
The CST’s “GameMode” report for Q2 2024 reveals an 85% improvement in online gaming performance in Saudi Arabia, with STC named as the Platinum Game Operator. It highlights significant enhancements in download speeds and latency across major gaming platforms, underpinning efforts to boost competitiveness and transparency in the telecom sector.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship (MoDEE) hosted the “Game Masters” roundtable at King Hussein Business Park to strengthen Jordan’s gaming industry. The event brought together developers, investors, and industry leaders to foster collaboration, share knowledge, and explore new opportunities, highlighting MoDEE’s commitment to supporting the growth of local gaming talent.
Qatar’s esports industry is set for significant growth, with projected revenue reaching $125.70 million in 2024 and expected to rise to $152.90 million by 2027. The Qatar Esports Federation (QESF) is driving this expansion through strategic investments, government support, and a robust gaming ecosystem, positioning Qatar as a regional esports hub.
Orange Jordan sponsored the Yarmouk University Computer Games Competition to boost students’ e-gaming design skills. The competition aligns with Jordan’s E-Gaming Strategy 2023-2027, aiming to enhance economic growth and job creation. Winners included teams from Applied Science Private University, Jordan University of Science and Technology, and University of Science and Technology.
Arthur D. Little’s report highlights Bahrain’s potential in video games and renewable energy. The gaming sector is the second fastest-growing in the Gulf, while renewable energy investments are surging. Bahrain’s strategic position in cloud services, financial transparency, real estate, and manufacturing further enhances its investment appeal.
Zain Esports partners with Riot Games MEA to bring League of Legends and other content to the Middle East. This collaboration aims to enhance the gaming experience for regional gamers and elevate Zain Esports’ role in the gaming ecosystem.
Dubai’s Crown Prince, H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, has approved the “Dubai Program for Gaming 2033,” aiming to make Dubai a top 10 global gaming city, create 30,000 jobs, and boost GDP by $1 billion by 2033. The initiative will support developers, designers, entrepreneurs, and startups in the gaming sector, focusing on talent, content, and technology. Three metaverse initiatives were also launched to cement Dubai’s leadership in metaverse development. The move aligns with Dubai’s vision to be a future-ready city, emphasizing technology and innovation.
