Riyadh: In a groundbreaking step, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) has announced the launch of the world’s first multi-use gaming and esports district within the city of Qiddiya.
The district aims to attract up to 10 million annual visits and strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global centre for gaming and e-sports.
The project will encompass a 500,000 square meters district with massive gaming arenas, software development headquarters, and retail and entertainment outlets upon completion.
It will consist of four state-of-the-art esports venues, centered around a main stadium with a 73,000-seat capacity and the world’s largest indoor LED screen.
Here’s a look
One of the venue, which will accommodate 5,300 seats, is set to become one of the world’s three largest esports stadiums.
The district is set to host up to 25 global esports clubs for living, training, and competition.
It will welcome leaders of the gaming and esports sector, and will provide regional headquarters to more than 30 leading video games development companies, the report added.
Abdullah bin Nasser Aldawood, Managing Director of Qiddiya Investment Company, said, “The gaming and esports sector is one of the fastest growing, and we can see the ambitious plans of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to advance it.”
“Our role will be to host major events and tournaments by developing the infrastructure so that Qiddiya City can invite the world to live, learn and compete in gaming and esports.”
“The gaming and esports district in Qiddiya City is not only for esports professionals but rather for gaming enthusiasts of all levels and ages,” he added.
The District is in line with the National Strategy for Gaming and Esports, aiming to establish the Kingdom as a global hub by 2030.
The development is also part of a larger plan to make Qiddiya City a top destination for entertainment, sports, and culture, leveraging the universal appeal of play.
