KHALIDH RIZWAN
COLOMBO The Global Esports Games (GEG) is the flagship event of the Global Esports Federation. In
collaboration with the Saudi E-sports Federation and the Global E-sports Federation, the third edition staged in Riyadh in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia from December 12-16, concluded successfully. The
Riyadh 2023 Global Esports Games is a global, multi-title esports competition that showcased esports’ energy through competitions and a dynamic celebration of esports culture and
entertainment at the GEG Festival. At the Saudi eLeague headquarters, over 250 players from more than 50 countries were present for the event.
The GEG 2023 championship embraced the most recent technological developments and blended
traditional sports with esports. Additionally, it offered the greatest social gaming, entertainment, and cultural experiences under the hashtag #worldconnected. Popular esports games like “Dota 2,”
“eFootballTM 2024,” “PUBG MOBILE,” and “Street Fighter 6” were all featured in the championship.
Turki Al-Fawzan, CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation, remarked that the GEG championship successfully drew in esports enthusiasts and fans who relished the intense competitions hosted during the event.
Following the triumphant conclusion of the e-sports championships, Saudi Arabia unveiled the world’s premier Gaming & Esports District within the Qiddiya project, marking a significant leap in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s commitment to gaming and esports. As an extension of the Crown
Prince’s backing for the sector, this district aligns with the National Strategy for Gaming and Esports, solidifying the Kingdom’s position as a global hub for these industries. Spanning over 500,000 square meters, the district will feature cutting-edge arenas, gaming-themed accommodations, retail spaces, and dining areas, offering a multifaceted experience for gaming enthusiasts of all ages and skill levels.
Designed to host premier global events, the district boasts four arenas, including a monumental esports stadium seating 5,300 people ranking among the world’s largest accompanied by the largest indoor LED screen in esports venues worldwide. Beyond events, the district will serve as a nucleus for esports clubs, housing up to 25 from around the globe for training, competition, and residence.
Additionally, it aims to attract over 30 leading video game development companies, establishing
regional headquarters, and supporting the Kingdom’s aspiration to welcome up to 10 million annual visitors by 2030, furthering its ambition to become a pinnacle in the global gaming and esports landscape.
