True Gamers, a Moscow-based leading eSports company is geared up to completely reform the cyber games landscape in the MENA region. They plan to launch a series of first-of-its-kind projects to establish a network of gaming lounges across the region. This $13.5 million dollar investment will take place by the end of 2023. It will be used to organize tournaments attracting gamers and organizers from around the world.
Anton Vasilenko, co-founder, and CEO of True Gamers said,
Over the next two years, we’ll be investing significantly in the future development and expansion of eSport lounges in the UAE and across the broader Middle East region. By the end of 2023, we plan to invest $13.5 million into developing our gaming centers in the UAE alone.
Mr. Vasilenko had recently announced a partnership with Baz Station Interiors, a Dubai-based gaming room design company as an entry plan in the Emirates. Baz Station Interiors will provide True Gamers with portable interiors that could be transferred and installed in distinct locations. The eSports company intends to renovate the eSports industry to help with social good. Their commitment to innovation resulted in the launch of robot waiter dogs. People with disabilities will be able to remotely control them. However, the CEO stated that the company’s joint venture with Baz is only limited to interior development.
According to a report by Boston Consulting Group titled ‘Game Changer,’ about 60% of the population in the Middle East identified themselves as gaming enthusiasts, driving half the share of mobile gaming app downloads. The Middle East and North Africa region, more specifically, the GCC arena has observed a significant progression. It has developed into a nerve center for the gaming and eSports industry. As a result, this flourishing sector has drawn the attention of both players and spectators alike. It has also fascinated investors, organizations, and sponsors.
The availability of high-speed internet and the progressive gaming frameworks have been the major contributors for the surge in the eSports and gaming industry. The GCC countries have witnessed a substantial amount of investment in technology and connectivity. Because of these developments, gamers can participate in a seamless online gaming experience. Additionally, the region hosts dedicated gaming facilities for hosting competitions, and events and increasing visibility. At the same time, modern and hi-tech equipment, expert training, and space to connect with fellow gaming enthusiasts allow players to compete in major international tournaments.
Apart from that, the government’s encouraging policies and initiatives have nurtured the industry’s growth. One such noteworthy example is the DMCC gaming center, launched by the Dubai Multi Commodities Center. This space provides a platform for professionals to connect, team up, and discover new opportunities.
True Gamers has opened gaming spaces in 6 locations in Dubai, including the reputable Dubai Mall. The company now looks to expand its reach and assess potential markets in the rest of the Emirates. They currently have their sight set on Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi enjoys the benefits of in-house support and events like Yas Gaming Month, because of its partnership with industry players like Ubisoft and Unity. AD Gaming, an initiative by the Abu Dhabi government for driving and creating self-reliable gaming, pledges to make Abu Dhabi the principal gaming hub in the UAE. They have forged a relationship with SAWA, to localize gaming video games, especially the ones developed in China. The objective is to make the vast gaming library more accessible for Arabic speakers. This cooperation will facilitate the Chinese eSports company to expand internationally via Abu Dhabi.
The plan to arrange the very first tournament in the True Gamers club and launch new lounges in Dubai is currently in the pipeline. The company is in talks with charities and businesses for funds to make the dream of entering the UAE market a reality.
The company plans to penetrate the Saudi Arabian market. They have already taken measures to research the market and understand the customer needs. According to the BCG’s report, Saudi Arabia is the industry leader in the gaming sector. Saudi Arabia has approximately 45% market to its name. It boasts a value that exceeds $1.8 billion dominating the mobile gaming market. It contributed to 65% of the revenue. They even plan to expand in Egypt. As such, they are looking for prospective local partners.
By 2027, the gaming industry in the Middle East and North Africa region is predicted to reach $6 billion. These figures are expected to be double what it was in 2021. This just suggests that there is a ton of room for growth in these untapped regions.
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