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Mobile gaming has emerged as a dominant force globally, with over 50% of total video gaming revenue now coming from mobile gameplay. Mobile devices’ convenience, allowing players to access a wide range of games anytime and anywhere, has contributed to this shift.
Looking ahead, the future of mobile gaming is promising. The rollout of 5G networks is also revolutionizing mobile gaming by providing high-performance gameplay with low latency. Augmented reality (AR) technology and multiplayer games featuring real-time shared virtual spaces will enhance player experiences even further. Additionally, emerging platforms like virtual reality (VR) headsets such as the Oculus and Vision will offer new dimensions of immersion and interaction in mobile gaming.
In 2023, mobile games reigned supreme in the gaming industry revenue, surpassing the combined revenue of PC and console games. Estimates suggest that mobile gaming reached a staggering $90 billion to $107 billion, highlighting its immense popularity and accessibility. While there was a slight decline of -1.4% in mobile gaming revenue in 2023 compared to the previous year, it was part of a market correction following exceptional growth in 2020 and 2021. Mobile gaming remains a powerhouse, contributing to about 45% of total gaming revenue worldwide.
With its rapid growth and ongoing innovations, the mobile gaming industry in the Middle East presents exciting opportunities for both international and regional game developers. As the region continues to embrace mobile gaming, it is expected to become an even more significant player globally.
Focusing our blog post on Jordan and Saudi Arabia is not merely a strategic choice but a reflection of our deep understanding of these markets’ immense potential within the gaming and Esports industries. As a Jordanian company with over two decades of experience in the region, we have witnessed firsthand these markets’ rapid evolution and increasing significance on a global scale. With its vibrant gaming community and supportive infrastructure, Jordan provides a fertile ground for innovation and growth. On the other hand, Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030 and its emphasis on diversifying the economy have positioned it as a critical player in the digital entertainment sector. By spotlighting our operations and partnerships in these two countries, we aim to highlight the opportunities they offer and our commitment to driving positive change and fostering sustainable growth within the regional gaming ecosystem. Our blog post serves as a testament to our dedication to these markets and our belief in their potential to shape the future of gaming in the Middle East and beyond.
The Middle East is witnessing a colossal surge in mobile gaming, mirroring a global frenzy. This explosive growth is driven by a youthful, tech-savvy populace with an enviable smartphone and tablet penetration rate. However, this region harbors unique traits that render it an exceptionally alluring market.
Saudi Arabia: A Mobile Gaming Titan
Saudi Arabia unequivocally stands out as the mobile gaming behemoth in the Middle East. Its prominence stems from several key factors:
Affluent Gamers: Saudi Arabia’s staggering wealth translates into an elevated average revenue per paying user (ARPU) that exceeds global benchmarks and entices game developers to invest heavily in the Saudi Arabian market.
Diverse Gaming Cohort: Saudi Arabian gamers exhibit remarkable diversity contrary to preconceived notions. A survey revealed that an impressive 60% of gamers spend money on mobile games, with a substantial proportion comprising female players. Age groups are also well-represented, with young adults (21-35) taking the lead.
Governmental Nurturing: Recognizing the industry’s potential, the Saudi government has unveiled ambitious aspirations. It aims to cultivate 30 competitive games by 2030 as part of a national gaming and esports strategy. This unwavering commitment underscores the government’s resolve to foster a thriving gaming ecosystem.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) is pouring billions into the mobile gaming industry to transform the Kingdom into a global leader. Through their Savvy Games Group, they’re making significant acquisitions in established companies like Nintendo and Activision Blizzard, attracting top talent and supporting local studios. This investment goes beyond just funding; PIF is building a complete ecosystem with esports infrastructure and initiatives to create Saudi-inspired mobile games. This strategy is already paying off, with Saudi Arabia gaining recognition, attracting further investment, creating jobs, and diversifying the economy. With this ambitious plan, Saudi Arabia is set to become a significant force in the future of mobile gaming.
Jordan: A Hub for Innovation
Despite its smaller size compared to Saudi Arabia, Jordan is well-positioned to be a leader in mobile game development within the region. Here’s what gives Jordan an edge:
The Future of Mobile Gaming in the Middle East
The mobile gaming industry in the Middle East is on the cusp of continued growth, with Saudi Arabia and Jordan leading the way. With a young and engaged population, strong government support, and a growing base of developers, the region is poised to reach even greater heights in the coming years, presenting exciting opportunities for international and regional game developers, making the Middle East a market that cannot be ignored.
However, navigating the Middle East mobile game market comes with its own set of challenges and opportunities. One significant challenge is the lack of local game development, which limits the region’s ability to monetize its gaming industry and create games tailored to local tastes. However, this challenge also presents a massive opportunity for local developers to fill the gap in the market and develop culturally relevant games.
Developers and investors must adopt effective strategies to navigate these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities. Cultural relevance is crucial, as messages and games must resonate with the local culture and language. Providing innovative experiences that cater to the preferences of Middle Eastern gamers is also essential for capturing their attention. Engaging strategies like leveraging platforms like Twitch and Reddit can effectively connect with gamers. Gamification elements can enhance player interaction and create immersive experiences. Lastly, building local partnerships with developers, content creators, and influencers can help navigate cultural nuances and better understand the Middle Eastern gaming market.
By addressing these challenges and leveraging the opportunities, developers and investors can strategically position themselves to tap into the growing Middle East gaming industry and effectively engage with the diverse and lucrative Middle East audience.
Saudi Arabia’s vision for the gaming industry goes beyond mere entertainment. It is a strategic move aimed at economic diversification, job creation, and youth empowerment, all intricately woven into the nation’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan. Here’s a glimpse into their goals:
Economic Powerhouse: Saudi Arabia aspires to become a global hub for gaming and esports, attracting major studios, fostering game development within the country, and generating substantial revenue. To support this vision, the Public Investment Fund (PIF) has established the Savvy Games Group, a dedicated entity with a staggering $142 billion investment earmarked for the industry by 2030.
Job Creation Bonanza: The Kingdom recognizes the gaming industry as a significant job creator, offering diverse career paths for Saudi youth. From game developers, designers, and esports professionals to event management and content creation specialists, the industry aligns with the national goal of increasing youth employment opportunities.
Empowering the Next Generation: Gaming is viewed as a valuable tool for developing essential skills in young Saudis, including problem-solving, teamwork, strategic thinking, and leadership qualities. This focus on youth development through entertainment strengthens their prospects in the ever-evolving technological landscape.
Building a Thriving Ecosystem: Saudi Arabia’s vision extends beyond game development. It encompasses establishing esports infrastructure, hosting major tournaments, and fostering a vibrant gaming community. This holistic approach aims to create a complete gaming experience that attracts gamers, developers, and investors alike.
Local Content with Global Appeal: The vision also emphasizes the creation of successful games with an Arabian touch. The goal is to develop games with universal appeal while incorporating elements of Saudi culture and heritage. This approach can create unique gaming experiences that resonate with local and international audiences.
Saudi Arabia’s vision for the gaming industry is ambitious. Still, with significant investments, government support, and a passionate young population, the Kingdom is well-positioned to become an essential player in the global gaming arena.
Saudi Arabia’s vision for the gaming industry goes beyond mere entertainment. It is a strategic move aimed at economic diversification, job creation, and youth empowerment, all intricately woven into the nation’s ambitious Vision 2030 plan. Here’s a glimpse into their goals:
Saudi Arabia is not simply riding the wave of mobile gaming but building its tidal wave. Recognizing the industry’s immense potential, the Saudi government has launched a series of initiatives and investments to propel the Kingdom to the forefront of mobile game development.
Savvy Games Group: A Big Bet on Gaming – Spearheaded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), the Savvy Games Group is a powerhouse entity leading the national gaming strategy. With a staggering 38 billion dollars allocated to the industry by 2030, the group focuses on attracting major studios, investing in local developers, and fostering a thriving mobile game ecosystem.
Investing in Local Champions: Saudi game development studios have access to funding programs and grants, enabling them to create high-quality mobile games that can compete globally. Initiative programs in Saudi provide financial support and incubation services for promising mobile game developers.
Building Talent & Infrastructure: Saudi Arabia recognizes the importance of a skilled workforce and implements educational programs and training initiatives to nurture game developers, designers, and esports professionals. These efforts are coupled with investments in infrastructure, including dedicated gaming facilities and high-speed internet networks.
NEOM Game Dev Challenge: Fostering Local Talent in Saudi Arabia
The NEOM Game Dev Challenge, an initiative by NEOM, a futuristic mega-city project in Saudi Arabia, is specifically designed to empower young Saudis. In collaboration with established studios like Maysalward, this challenge provides students with a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience and guidance in developing and launching their mobile games. The program aims to nurture local talent at a grassroots level, creating a pipeline of skilled game developers.
By partnering with industry experts and offering practical training, the NEOM Game Dev Challenge equips young Saudis with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the competitive gaming industry. This initiative fosters creativity and innovation and provides a platform for aspiring game developers to showcase their talents and contribute to the growing gaming ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
The NEOM Game Dev Challenge is a testament to NEOM’s commitment to nurturing local talent and promoting entrepreneurship in the gaming sector. By investing in the next generation of game developers, NEOM is paving the way for Saudi Arabia to become a hub of innovation and excellence in the gaming industry.
Esports on the Agenda: The government actively supports the development of a robust esports scene, with initiatives such as building state-of-the-art esports arenas and hosting major international tournaments. This focus on professional gaming fosters a culture of competition and engagement, further strengthening the mobile gaming ecosystem.
Localization for Global Appeal: While encouraging the creation of original games, the government also recognizes the power of localization. Initiatives are in place to support developers in adapting existing games for the Saudi market, incorporating local culture and heritage elements. This strategy fosters a sense of national pride while ensuring global accessibility for Saudi-made mobile games.
Esports on the Agenda: The government actively supports the development of a robust esports scene, with initiatives such as building state-of-the-art esports arenas and hosting major international tournaments. This focus on professional gaming fosters a culture of competition and engagement, further strengthening the mobile gaming ecosystem.
Localization for Global Appeal: While encouraging the creation of original games, the government also recognizes the power of localization. Initiatives are in place to support developers in adapting existing games for the Saudi market, incorporating local culture and heritage elements. This strategy fosters a sense of national pride while ensuring global accessibility for Saudi-made mobile games.
By implementing these comprehensive initiatives, Saudi Arabia supports mobile game development and lays the foundation for a future where the Kingdom becomes a global leader in the gaming industry. Focusing on local talent and infrastructure and fostering a vibrant gaming culture positions Saudi Arabia as a hotbed of mobile game development with exciting prospects.
In conclusion, the future of mobile gaming and Esports is brighter than ever in the MENA region, and we are excited to be at the forefront of this dynamic industry. As we eagerly anticipate the Esports Future Summit, scheduled to take place in Jordan from the 27th to the 28th of April, we invite industry leaders, enthusiasts, and innovators to join us on this transformative journey. With engaging activities leading up to the summit, including events in Umm Qais, Amman, and Petra, we are laying the foundation for an immersive experience filled with networking opportunities, knowledge-sharing sessions, and community-building initiatives. The summit itself promises to be a pivotal moment, bringing together esteemed speakers, insightful panels, and interactive workshops to explore the limitless potential of Esports in shaping the future of entertainment and competition. Together, let’s harness the power of mobile gaming and Esports to unlock new opportunities, drive innovation, and inspire the next generation of gamers across Jordan and beyond.