In a move that signals Saudi Arabia’s fervent commitment to establishing itself as a global eSports powerhouse, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) has unveiled plans for an annual eSports World Cup. This groundbreaking competition promises to host the world’s most popular games and feature the largest prize pool in eSports history.
The announcement of the eSports World Cup marks a significant stride towards the Saudi Kingdom’s objective of becoming a prominent global hub for gaming and eSports. It is anticipated to not only make a remarkable impact on the gaming industry but also drive the creation of 39,000 eSports-related jobs by the year 2030.
Prince Mohammed bin Salman expressed his excitement about this ambitious venture, stating, “The eSports World Cup is the natural next step in Saudi Arabia’s journey to become the premier global hub for gaming and esports, offering an unmatched eSports experience that pushes the boundaries of the industry. The competition will enhance our progress toward realizing the Vision 2030 objectives of diversifying the economy, growing the tourism sector, creating new jobs in various industries, and providing world-class entertainment for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.”
The Vision 2030 initiative, launched in 2016, aims to transform Saudi Arabia’s economy by reducing its dependence on oil and diversifying into various sectors, including entertainment and technology. The eSports World Cup aligns perfectly with this vision, contributing to the creation of a thriving gaming and eSports ecosystem that will foster economic growth and job opportunities.
Crown Prince MBS’s personal passion for gaming has played a pivotal role in driving investments in the eSports and gaming industry within the kingdom. Since taking office, Saudi Arabia has invested over $3 billion in US video game developers, including Activision Blizzard Inc., renowned for producing the iconic Call of Duty franchise.
Furthermore, in a significant move last year, Saudi Arabia unveiled a $38 billion investment strategy for the Savvy Games Group, which is owned by the Public Investment Fund. This strategic investment demonstrates the kingdom’s commitment to harnessing the immense potential within the eSports and gaming sector to further diversify its economy.
“We are harnessing the untapped potential across the eSports and games sector to diversify our economy,” commented Prince Mohammed bin Salman when he initially introduced the Savvy Games Group in September.
The eSports World Cup will undoubtedly serve as a significant catalyst in realizing Saudi Arabia’s ambitions within the gaming industry. With the promise of the largest prize pool in eSports history, the event is set to attract top talent from across the globe and bring unprecedented attention to the growing eSports scene in the kingdom.
As the eSports World Cup takes its first steps, the world eagerly awaits to witness the grandeur of this historic event and the subsequent rise of Saudi Arabia as a dominant force in the world of eSports. With the Crown Prince’s unwavering support and strategic investments, it appears that the kingdom is well on its way to achieving its Vision 2030 goals in the gaming and eSports arena.
(Source: Mohamed Eltayeb | Doha News | Arab News)
