Saudi Arabia is set to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025, a significant milestone that aligns with the nation’s Vision 2030—a roadmap for economic diversification and global engagement. Esports development has emerged as a strategic focus for Saudi Arabia, aiming to enhance the quality of life and position the country as a global hub for gaming.
In a recent interview, Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, expressed confidence in the natural affinity of the younger generation towards gaming. “We are now in a time that every generation born doesn’t know a world without esports,” Prince Faisal remarked. “Unlike us who had to learn about gaming and esports, these young men and women today are gamers by nature. Even traditional athletes are gamers. Many football players engage with EAFC, and basketball players worldwide participate in NBA 2K. Professional players are embracing esports all over the world.”
Prince Faisal also highlighted Saudi Arabia’s cooperation with the China Media Group (CMG). The CMG National Institute for Esports Development was established in Beijing in July, boosting China’s involvement in the burgeoning industry. CMG has entered a strategic cooperation agreement with the Esports World Cup Federation of Saudi Arabia and China-based esports company VSPO, with plans to jointly organize and participate in future esports events.
“The aim here is to bring the best of the best together,” Prince Faisal stated. “We are not looking to recreate the wheel. We want to understand what is happening around the world, identify the best players, and collaborate to ensure mutual growth in the best way possible.”
He added, “This is how we approach everything within our ecosystem. Before advancing any partnership or investment, we first ask: ‘Why?’ If the answer makes sense, we pursue it seriously. There’s nothing about this partnership that doesn’t answer that question—whether it’s expertise, growth, or collaborating with the best.”
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Saudi Esports Federation Chief: Young generation are gamers by nature
cgtn.com
