Interview: Qiddiya to become a gaming hub in MENA region
Ahead of the inaugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh this
summer, the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region emerges as a dynamic hub
for the gaming industry.
In
an exclusive interview, ESL FACEIT Group Co-CEO Craig Levine and Qiddiya
Gaming Chair Mike Milanov discuss the accelerating growth of the MENA region's
esports landscape.
Levine and Milanov delve into their partnership's
significance in creating a Gaming & Esports District, ensuring inclusivity
for female gamers, overcoming challenges in establishing the hub, and the
region's bullish outlook on esports.
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PocketGamer.Biz: Could you elaborate on the recent
collaboration between ESL FACEIT Group and Qiddiya and its impact on esports
growth in the Middle East?
Levine: Our partnership with Qiddiya City to develop its
Gaming & Esports District signifies a landmark moment. Leveraging our
global reach of 225 million gamers, we aim to shape the future of gaming and
esports. Through ESL events, DreamHack festivals, and the FACEIT platform,
we'll engage gamers worldwide, fostering a global gaming hub in the Middle
East.
What initiatives or facilities can gamers expect in the
esports and gaming district, and how will they cater to regional interests?
Milanov: The Gaming & Esports District aims to be a global
destination offering unparalleled experiences. Spanning 500,000 square meters,
it features four thematic zones, appealing to casual and hardcore gamers alike.
Gamers' input will shape the district's offerings, ensuring authenticity and
inclusivity.
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How do you plan to engage local game developers and content
creators within the district?
Milanov: The district prioritizes the creator economy,
integrating content creation seamlessly into the gaming experience. We'll offer
platforms for content creation and support game development initiatives. Expect
significant digital components and exciting announcements in this regard.
Despite recent challenges, why maintain optimism in esports?
Levine: Esports is recalibrating post-COVID, exploring
sustainable growth avenues. With the gaming market projected to surge globally,
emerging regions like the Middle East, notably Saudi Arabia, offer immense
potential. Initiatives like the Esports World Cup and mobile esports
demonstrate the industry's adaptability and resilience.
What prompts the significant investment in esports in the
MENA region?
Levine: MENA boasts a burgeoning esports market projected to
reach $6.7bn this year, fueled by a youthful population. Governments, including
Saudi Arabia, recognize esports' importance, aligning with Vision 2030 goals.
Our partnership with Qiddiya exemplifies our commitment to reinforcing the
Middle East as a global gaming hub.
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With a large youth demographic in Saudi Arabia, how do you
tailor esports initiatives to this audience?
Levine: Youth engagement extends beyond gameplay,
encompassing various experiences. We facilitate community interaction through
platforms like FACEIT Watch and DreamHack festivals, enhancing fandom
celebrations. By prioritizing community-building, we aim to resonate with young
fans in the Middle East.
What challenges do you anticipate in establishing the gaming
hub, and how do you plan to address them?
Milanov: Building a comprehensive gaming destination
presents unprecedented challenges, yet we embrace risks to realize our vision.
Saudi Arabia's commitment to gaming and esports, reflected in Vision 2030,
accelerates ecosystem development. Our collaboration with Qiddiya ensures
sustained industry growth and innovation.
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How will the partnership promote inclusivity and
opportunities for female gamers in the region?
Milanov: Qiddiya supports ESL Impact, fostering diversity in
gaming. Through initiatives like the Women's CS2 League, we empower female
gamers. Inclusivity remains a cornerstone of our partnership, driving equitable
participation in esports.
Do you plan to collaborate with regional organizations to
develop unique esports experiences?
Milanov: Absolutely. Our endeavors prioritize local and
global considerations, catering to Saudi Arabia's passionate gaming community.
Expect collaborations that resonate with Middle Eastern audiences, enriching
the gaming landscape.
What impact do you foresee this partnership having on MENA
esports growth in the next 5 years?
Levine: Qiddiya's Gaming & Esports District will
redefine gaming infrastructure, serving as a global epicenter for publishers,
professionals, and tournaments. This initiative will catalyze innovation,
shaping esports not only in MENA but worldwide.
Source: https://www.pocketgamer.biz/
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