Saudi Arabia to Host Esports World Cup in Riyadh

Saudi Arabia has announced its plans to host an annual Esports World Cup in Riyadh, set to commence in the summer of 2024. This monumental event promises to showcase a variety of top-tier esports titles, encompassing diverse genres, and is poised to become the world's largest esports event. The event is orchestrated by the newly established Esports World Cup Foundation, a government-backed non-profit, which aims to foster collaboration among esports aficionados and fortify the industry's longevity.

The Crown Prince's dedication to the esports realm is evident, aligning with the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, an initiative introduced by the Crown Prince in 2022. This strategy aims to bolster Saudi Arabia's esports sector, aligning with the nation's Vision 2030 goals. These objectives encompass economic diversification, tourism expansion, and job creation.

The Esports World Cup will replace the Saudi Esports Federation's Gamers8 festival and is poised to showcase the world's most acclaimed games across pivotal genres. Although the specific titles remain under wraps, the anticipation is palpable. The event intends to offer a plethora of activities and events designed to attract tourists to Riyadh. Given the region's soaring summer temperatures, the indoor tournament is a strategic move to boost tourism during these warmer months.

Saudi Arabia's commitment to esports is evident in its recent ventures. The nation has established the ESL FACEIT Group, initiated a $45m esports festival, and acquired stakes in prominent game developers. In 2022, the government-owned Savvy Games Group unveiled an ambitious $38bn investment strategy in esports and gaming.

In a statement, HRH Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz expressed his enthusiasm for the Esports World Cup, viewing it as a pivotal step in Saudi Arabia's journey to become a global esports hub. He envisions the competition as a catalyst for achieving the Vision 2030 objectives, emphasizing economic growth, tourism, job creation, and world-class entertainment.

The Esports World Cup is not just about the games but about the vision. The newly established Esports World Cup Foundation aims to foster collaboration among esports aficionados and fortify the industry's longevity. The foundation aspires to offer a platform for innovation, education, and networking, driving the esports industry's growth and development.