

Market Assessment
The study integrates60 structured interviews(qualitative deep dives) and300 online surveys(quantitative validation) with stakeholders across the UAE Video Game Market value chain — including game developers, publishers, and end consumers. Coverage spans major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah, as well as emerging areas.
| Customer Cohort | Description | Proposed Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Game Developers | Companies creating video games for various platforms | Sample Size: 80 |
| Publishers | Firms distributing and marketing video games | Sample Size: 50 |
| eSports Organizations | Teams and companies involved in competitive gaming | Sample Size: 50 |
| End Consumers (Gamers) | Individuals who play video games across platforms | Sample Size: 70 |
| Retailers | Stores selling video games and consoles | Sample Size: 30 |
| Gaming Influencers | Content creators focused on gaming | Sample Size: 20 |
Total Respondents:360 (60 structured interviews+300 surveys)
The UAE video game market is driven by increasing smartphone penetration, rising disposable incomes, a growing interest in eSports, and the expansion of internet infrastructure, which collectively enhance accessibility and engagement among gamers.
Challenges include regulatory hurdles, intense competition from global players, cultural sensitivities regarding content, and limited local game development, which can hinder market growth and innovation.
Opportunities include the growth of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) gaming, increased investment in local game studios, potential for educational gaming, and the expansion of gaming events and conventions, fostering community engagement.
The UAE video game market is segmented by game type (e.g., action, RPG, simulation), platform (mobile, PC, console), distribution channel (online, retail), user demographics (age, gender), genre popularity, and payment models (free-to-play, subscription).
Popular gaming platforms in the UAE include mobile devices, PCs, consoles, and cloud gaming services. Mobile gaming is particularly prominent due to high smartphone penetration and accessibility among various demographics.