The gaming industry is growing at a breakneck speed across the Middle East, with tournaments offering prize pools of up to $15 million. Saudi Arabia is set to host a number of events, the most recent of which is the Gamers8 tournament, which will take place in the capital Riyadh over the course of eight weeks starting on July 14. The United Arab Emirates is also jumping on board with the Yas Gaming Festival, Abu Dhabi’s largest gaming event. After two successful runs in 2018 and 2019, this year’s Yas Gaming Festival is returning, and it’s bringing with it a host of competitions with big prizes. The event will take place in the Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi from July 7 to 17.
There will be a cosplay competition, welcoming lovers of all things film, TV, games, or books and the outfits to match. It’s worth noting that Yas Gaming Month is open to the public and is free to attend, allowing gamers and enthusiasts to see their passion come to life. The space will be turned into a gamers’ paradise, complete with specifically selected stations for gamers of all skill levels. Also, Yas Gaming Festival will allow guests to give back to the community through Gaming4Good in an effort to spread goodness. This is a platform where you can donate or buy used games and consoles, with all earnings going to the Emirates Autism Center.
The world finals of the V10 R League simulated racing series will also be held at the event to cap up Yas Gaming Month. On Friday, July 22, and Saturday, July 23, the semi-finals, bronze medal match, and final game of the racing league will be held, with a prize fund of more than Dhs46,000. Mercedes AMG Esports, Red Bull Racing Esports, Aston Martin Esports, and Yas’s own YAS HEAT will all compete in the competition.
The tournament is in partnership with AD Gaming, which was established in 2021 to help Abu Dhabi’s efforts to develop vibrant gaming conventions. Globally, the gaming business has thrived, and it is one of the industries highlighted in the UAE’s 10-year National Strategy for Cultural and Creative Industries according to Time Out Magazine.