Saudi Arabia Pacific Gaming Market Report Size, Share, Growth Drivers, Trends, Opportunities & Forecast 2025–2030

Saudi Arabia Gaming Market Overview

• The Saudi Arabia Gaming Market is valued at USD 2.4 billion, based on a five-year historical analysis. This growth is primarily driven by the increasing penetration of smartphones, a young population eager for digital entertainment, significant investments in gaming infrastructure and esports initiatives by the government and private sector, Vision 2030's National Gaming and Esports Strategy, rapid mobile adoption with 5G networks, and a gamer base exceeding 25 million.
• Key cities such as Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam dominate the gaming market due to their large urban populations, high internet connectivity, and the presence of major gaming events and tournaments. These cities serve as hubs for both local and international gaming companies, fostering a vibrant gaming culture.
• The Gaming and Esports Licensing Rules, 2023 issued by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) regulate gaming and esports activities, requiring operators to obtain licenses for organizing events, developing games, and broadcasting content with compliance thresholds including minimum capital of SAR 500,000 and adherence to content rating standards. This initiative aims to support local game developers and attract international gaming companies, enhancing the overall ecosystem and positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading player in the global gaming market.

Saudi Arabia Gaming Market Segmentation

By Device Type:The gaming market in Saudi Arabia is segmented by device type into consoles, mobiles and tablets, and computers (PC). Among these, mobiles and tablets dominate the market due to their accessibility and the increasing number of mobile gamers. The convenience of mobile gaming, coupled with the availability of a wide range of games, has led to a significant rise in the number of users engaging in mobile gaming. Consoles and PCs also have a dedicated user base, particularly among competitive gamers and those seeking high-quality graphics and immersive experiences.

By Platform:The gaming market is also segmented by platform into online and offline gaming. Online gaming is the leading segment, driven by the increasing availability of high-speed internet and the popularity of multiplayer games. The rise of esports and online tournaments has further fueled this growth, attracting a large number of players and viewers. Offline gaming, while still relevant, is gradually declining as more gamers prefer the connectivity and social aspects of online platforms.

Saudi Arabia Gaming Market Competitive Landscape

The Saudi Arabia Gaming Market is characterized by a dynamic mix of regional and international players. Leading participants such as Savvy Games Group, Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), Saudi Telecom Company (STC), MBC Group, NEOM (Gaming & Esports Initiatives), Amazon (Twitch), Riot Games, Electronic Arts (EA), Activision Blizzard, Sony Interactive Entertainment (PlayStation), Microsoft Gaming (Xbox), Tencent Games, NetEase Games, PUBG Corporation (KRAFTON), Zain KSA contribute to innovation, geographic expansion, and service delivery in this space.

Saudi Arabia Gaming Market Industry Analysis

Growth Drivers

• Increasing Internet Penetration:As of future, Saudi Arabia boasts an internet penetration rate of approximately 99%, with over 36 million active internet users. This widespread connectivity facilitates access to online gaming platforms, driving engagement and participation in the gaming sector. The government’s investment in digital infrastructure, including 5G technology, is expected to enhance user experience, further propelling the growth of the gaming market. Enhanced internet access is crucial for the expansion of both mobile and console gaming.
• Youth Demographics and Gaming Culture:Saudi Arabia has a youthful population, with around 63% of its citizens under the age of 35. This demographic is increasingly embracing gaming as a primary form of entertainment. In future, the number of gamers in the country is projected to exceed 23.5 million, reflecting a cultural shift towards gaming. The rise of social media and streaming platforms has also contributed to the popularity of gaming, fostering a vibrant community that supports local and international gaming events.
• Government Support for Digital Entertainment:The Saudi government has committed to diversifying its economy through initiatives like Vision 2030, which includes significant investments in the gaming industry. In future, the government is expected to allocate over USD 38 billion to support local game development and digital entertainment projects. This funding aims to create a sustainable ecosystem for game developers, encouraging innovation and attracting international partnerships, which will further stimulate market growth.

Market Challenges

• Regulatory Restrictions:The gaming industry in Saudi Arabia faces stringent regulatory challenges, including content approval processes that can delay game launches. In future, the government is expected to enforce stricter regulations on game content, particularly concerning cultural and religious sensitivities. These restrictions can hinder the creativity of local developers and limit the types of games that can be marketed, potentially stifling growth in a rapidly evolving industry.
• Competition from Global Gaming Companies:The Saudi gaming market is increasingly competitive, with major global companies like Tencent and Activision Blizzard entering the region. In future, these companies are projected to capture a significant share of the market, leveraging their established franchises and marketing power. Local developers may struggle to compete against these giants, which can lead to market saturation and reduced opportunities for homegrown talent to thrive in the industry.

Saudi Arabia Gaming Market Future Outlook

The Saudi gaming market is poised for significant transformation, driven by technological advancements and a growing consumer base. The integration of augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) technologies is expected to enhance gaming experiences, attracting more players. Additionally, the rise of subscription-based gaming services will likely reshape how consumers access games, promoting a shift towards digital consumption. As local developers gain support, the market will see increased innovation and a broader range of gaming options catering to diverse audiences.

Market Opportunities

• E-sports Growth:The e-sports sector in Saudi Arabia is rapidly expanding, with an estimated audience of over 5 million viewers in future. This growth presents opportunities for local tournaments and sponsorships, attracting both players and investors. The government's support for e-sports initiatives is expected to further enhance the competitive landscape, fostering a vibrant community and increasing participation in this lucrative segment.
• Investment in Local Game Development:With the government's commitment to fostering local talent, investments in game development are projected to exceed USD 38 billion in future. This funding will support startups and established developers, encouraging the creation of culturally relevant games. As local developers gain recognition, the potential for unique gaming experiences tailored to Saudi audiences will increase, driving further market growth and innovation.