The number of gamers in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt has surpassed the 65 million mark. At the same time, the global metaverse industry is expected to be worth almost $800 billion by 2024 since everything from shopping to dining is possible in the virtual space. With gaming also becoming immersive experiences, where digital rewards are available as NFTs, sports enthusiasts now can get a closer view of a tournament for the popular game EA Sports FIFA22 in the metaverse. 

The first-of-its-kind e-sports event in the Middle East will be held in Qatar and streamed virtually. Fans will be able to attend the matches in virtual viewing spaces as avatars that virtual fan jerseys will identify.

Viewers will also be able to interact with each other via voice calls in virtual chat rooms, send emojis and click virtual photos in the metaverse. Fans can also talk to gamers, and players will have their virtual corridor with their images displayed as Champion’s Cup Hall of Famers.

The immersive experience will be enhanced with digital merchandise and online ticketing, and free NFTs for attendees. Fans can monetize the tokens to meet the gamers and influencers or get free merchandise. The three-day event will be streamed live on YouTube in English and Arabic.

Around 12 top players of EA Sports FIFA22, including four from the Middle East, will compete for a $50,000 grand prize at the tournament. The Aspire Ladies Sports Hall in Doha has been chosen as the venue for the event.

Earlier this year, Crypto Oasis and Gamescoin formed a partnership to unlock a blockchain gaming metaverse for the Middle East. It will also turn the gaming ecosystem into an investment opportunity by introducing in-game digital assets.