Saudi Arabia Targets $13.3 Billion Gain from Esports and Gaming by 2030

Saudi Arabia is poised to make significant strides in the global esports and gaming industry, with projections indicating a potential contribution of $13.3 billion (SAR 50 billion) to the Kingdom's GDP by 2030. This ambitious target is part of the Kingdom's broader strategy to position itself as a global hub for esports and gaming, driven by the Vision 2030 plan.

The Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) and PwC Middle East have jointly released a report detailing the Kingdom's strategy to develop a robust esports ecosystem. The report emphasizes that by fostering new career paths and business opportunities within the esports sector, Saudi Arabia aims to generate nearly 39,000 jobs over the next few years.

The esports industry has seen substantial global growth, with its market currently valued at over $1.4 billion. By next year, this figure is expected to reach $1.86 billion, largely fueled by revenues from media rights, sponsorships, and merchandise sales. Saudi Arabia's strategic focus on youth engagement, coupled with significant government investment in esports infrastructure, positions the Kingdom as a leader in the Middle East's gaming landscape.

Saudi Arabia's gaming population is notably large, with approximately 67% of its 23.5 million residents actively engaged in gaming. The Kingdom is not only home to a significant number of gaming enthusiasts but also nearly 1,000 professional esports players pursuing full-time careers in the industry.

Despite the promising outlook, the global esports sector faces challenges, including issues with monetization and technological advancements. However, Saudi Arabia remains committed to overcoming these obstacles by continuing to invest in infrastructure and talent development. The Kingdom's Qiddiya City, for example, has announced plans for the world's first comprehensive gaming and esports district, aimed at attracting millions of visitors annually.

With these strategic initiatives, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a major player in the global esports market by 2030, contributing significantly to its economic diversification and establishing itself as a leader in this rapidly growing industry.