Saudi Arabia captured 20% of the Middle East and North Africa’s gaming revenues in 2024, generating $1.2 billion as the Kingdom accelerates efforts under Vision 2030 to make gaming and esports a major economic pillar.

According to Savvy Games’ 2024 report, the global gaming industry, now boasting 2.85 billion players and an audience exceeding 640 million, is the fastest-growing segment in entertainment, outpacing film, live sports, and music.

“In 2024, the sector was projected to generate over $187 billion, representing over 2.1% year-on-year growth, illustrating its scale and adaptability,” the report added.

Saudi Arabia placed gaming and esports at the heart of its diversification drive three years ago, launching a national strategy aimed at creating 39,000 jobs and contributing $13.3 billion to GDP by 2030.

Savvy Games, chaired by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and backed by the Public Investment Fund, is a key driver in realizing these ambitions and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading global hub for gaming and esports.

The Kingdom’s domestic gaming market generated $1.19 billion in 2024, with forecasts projecting $1.64 billion by 2028 at a CAGR of 8.2%. Growth spans all platforms: 8.3% for console, 7.3% for mobile, and 4% for PC.

Saudi Arabia is spearheading this expansion with a gamer base exceeding 25.8 million, supported by strategic investments in global studios and publishers.

Scopely, a Savvy Games subsidiary, ranked second worldwide in 2024 after its hit title Monopoly Go! earned $3 billion and was named “Game of the Year.” Since its founding in 2011, Scopely has generated $10 billion in revenue. Other investments include ESL FACEIT Group, Steer Studio, Embracer Group, Hero Esports, and G1riffin, highlighting Riyadh’s growing influence in international gaming.

The Kingdom also gained global attention as host of the first Esports World Cup, held in Riyadh between July and August 2024. The event featured 1,500 athletes across 23 tournaments and offered a record $60 million prize pool, cementing Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to become the global capital of esports.

The broader MENA gaming market is projected to continue strong growth, expanding at a CAGR of 7.3% between 2024 and 2027, with revenues rising from $5.62 billion in 2024 to $6.94 billion by 2027.