Governments funding game design? In MENA, it’s an untapped opportunity for global influence 👾

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Gaming: The New Frontier for MENA Economies

The Middle East and North Africa already have the foundation for success in gaming.

• Demographics: The region boasts a young, tech-savvy population, with over 50% of residents under the age of 25²  

• Market Growth: The MENA gaming market is expected to grow to $6 billion by 2027, driven by increasing mobile penetration and disposable income³ .

• Cultural Potential: With rich histories and diverse storytelling traditions, MENA has untapped potential to create games that captivate global audiences.

So, why hasn’t the region produced its own Assassin’s Creed or League of Legends?

Education: The First Step to Building a Gaming Ecosystem

Investing in education is critical. Countries like Canada, Poland, and South Korea have proven that success in gaming starts with a skilled workforce.

In the UAE, institutions like Zayed University and NYU Abu Dhabi have started incorporating gaming-related courses, but this effort needs to scale. Imagine a regional academy for gaming in Dubai, training the next generation of developers, designers, and storytellers.

Benefits of Gaming Education in MENA:

1. Job Creation: The gaming industry supports roles in design, programming, marketing, and publishing.

2. Tech Advancement: Game development fosters innovation in AI, AR/VR, and blockchain—fields that MENA governments are already prioritising.

3. Export Opportunities: Locally developed games can become major cultural exports, putting MENA narratives on the global map.

From AAA Titles to Cultural Icons

Let’s look at the bigger picture: global influence.

South Korea 

South Korea’s government-backed focus on eSports and game development has positioned the country as a cultural powerhouse. Games like League of Legends and PUBG are played worldwide, and Korean gaming companies are worth billions⁴ .

Canada 

With tax incentives and gaming hubs like Montreal, Canada produces some of the world’s most popular titles, including Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry. Gaming now contributes over $4 billion annually to Canada’s GDP^5.

The MENA Opportunity: Imagine a New Future

Now, imagine a future where MENA countries join this elite group of gaming nations.

• A AAA game inspired by the epic tales of One Thousand and One Nights, designed in Riyadh, marketed globally, and loved by millions.

• Regional gaming expos in Dubai rivaling Gamescon, attracting global publishers and players.

• MENA eSports teams dominating international tournaments, becoming cultural ambassadors for the region.

By investing in gaming education, infrastructure, and incentives, MENA countries can lead the next wave of cultural and economic influence.

The Payoff: Beyond Entertainment

Economic Impact 

Gaming can diversify economies heavily reliant on oil. With government support, gaming could generate billions in revenue and create thousands of jobs in the region.

Soft Power 

Games are cultural products that shape global perceptions. A MENA-developed game could showcase the region’s creativity, diversity, and innovation, just as Japan’s Mario or Poland’s The Witcher have done.

Youth Empowerment

With over 100 million young people in MENA, gaming offers a way to engage, inspire, and empower a generation hungry for opportunities.