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Saudi Arabia's Gaming Boom: Sa...Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Savvy Games Group has been pivotal in transforming Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is experiencing a remarkable surge in interest and participation in esports and gaming, driven by the National Gaming and eSports Strategy and the entrepreneurial initiatives of Savvy Games Group. With over 24 million gamers—roughly 67 percent of the population—the Kingdom has become one of the industry's most profitable markets.
Under the leadership of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Savvy Games Group has been pivotal in transforming Saudi Arabia into a global gaming and esports hub. Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy Games Group, highlighted the group's unprecedented growth in its first two-and-a-half years of operations during an interview with Al Arabiya English. Founded by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) in 2022, Savvy's mission is to drive long-term growth and develop the esports and gaming industry both domestically and globally. A dedicated business unit called Nine66 spearheads the development of the local games and esports sector.
The ongoing Esports World Cup, from July 3 to August 25, positions Riyadh as a premier destination for esports enthusiasts, cementing its status as a global gaming hub. The event offers a wide range of activities for all ages, with 22 championships in popular games and a prize pool reaching $60 million—the greatest in esports history. Visitors can enjoy various events, interactive shows, and activities that blend sports, entertainment, education, culture, and creativity. This comprehensive approach aims to foster a vibrant esports culture in the Kingdom, ensuring sustainable growth and international recognition.