Middle East Gaming Market Report - Industry Growth, Size & Forecast Analysis (2025 - 2030)

The Middle East Gaming Market Size is segmented by Platform (Browser PC, Smartphone, Tablet, Gaming Console, and Downloaded Box/PC), Country (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Kuwait, and the Rest of Middle East). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value in USD billion for all the above segments.

Middle East Gaming Market Report - Industry Growth, Size & Forecast Analysis (2025 - 2030)

Middle East Gaming Market Size

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Middle East Gaming Market Summary
Study Period 2019 - 2030
Base Year For Estimation 2024
Forecast Data Period 2025 - 2030
Market Size (2025) USD 7.04 Billion
Market Size (2030) USD 11.87 Billion
CAGR (2025 - 2030) 11.02 %
Market Concentration Medium

Major Players

Middle East Gaming Market Major Players

*Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order

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Middle East Gaming Market Analysis

The Middle East Gaming Market size is estimated at USD 7.04 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach USD 11.87 billion by 2030, at a CAGR of 11.02% during the forecast period (2025-2030).

The Middle East gaming industry is experiencing a transformative phase driven by significant infrastructure developments and technological advancements. The region's gaming ecosystem is being revolutionized through the establishment of dedicated gaming facilities, such as Dubai's X-Stadium and Abu Dhabi's Al Qana complex, which represent the emirate's largest e-sports and virtual reality gaming developments. The integration of cloud gaming services and high-speed internet infrastructure is reshaping how games are delivered and consumed across the region. These developments are complemented by the robust mobile infrastructure, with GCC countries projected to achieve 91% smartphone penetration by 2025.


The investment landscape in the Middle East gaming sector continues to demonstrate remarkable vitality and strategic importance. In December 2023, Mubadala Investment Company and Abu Dhabi Gaming (AD Gaming) formed a strategic partnership through a memorandum of understanding, aimed at fostering high-value products and innovative technology in the gaming sector. The industry's financial momentum is further evidenced by significant funding rounds, such as Zone's successful raise of $2.35 million in January 2024, highlighting the growing confidence of investors in the region's gaming potential.


The region is witnessing a substantial shift toward mobile gaming platforms, supported by advanced network infrastructure and increasing smartphone adoption. This transition is particularly evident in the United Arab Emirates, where the average gamer spending reaches approximately $115 per year, reflecting the market's maturity and consumers' willingness to invest in gaming experiences. The development of AR-based applications and games is creating new opportunities for market expansion, while cloud gaming services are becoming increasingly prevalent, offering players seamless access to high-quality gaming experiences across devices.


The emergence of specialized gaming venues and entertainment complexes is reshaping the physical gaming landscape across the Middle East. Saudi Arabia's investment in theme parks and amusement spaces, coupled with the development of dedicated gaming facilities, is creating new opportunities for immersive gaming experiences. The establishment of gaming centers of excellence, such as the collaboration between Twofour54 and Unity Technologies in Abu Dhabi, is fostering local talent development and supporting the growth of the regional gaming ecosystem. These initiatives are particularly significant given the region's demographic advantage, with Saudi Arabia alone hosting approximately 20 million gaming enthusiasts.

Segment Analysis: By Platform

Smartphone Segment in Middle East Gaming Market

The mobile gaming segment dominates the Middle East gaming market, commanding approximately 47% of the total market share in 2024, while also maintaining the highest growth trajectory. Mobile gaming has emerged as the most preferred mode of gaming in the region, surpassing both console gaming and PC gaming platforms. This dominance can be attributed to the widespread smartphone penetration, increasing adoption of high-speed 5G networks, and the growing development of mobile-optimized games. The segment's growth is further propelled by various technological advancements, including augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming capabilities. Major game publishers are increasingly focusing on mobile versions of their popular titles, recognizing the segment's potential. The development of cloud gaming technology has particularly enhanced the mobile gaming experience by allowing users to stream advanced games across handheld devices with fast network connectivity, eliminating the need for regular hardware upgrades.

Market Analysis of Middle East Gaming Market: Chart for By Platform

Remaining Segments in Middle East Gaming Market

The console gaming segment represents the second-largest platform in the Middle East gaming market, followed by Downloaded/Box PC gaming. Console gaming maintains its strong presence due to the continuous technological advancements in hardware capabilities and the release of next-generation gaming consoles. The Downloaded/Box PC segment continues to attract gaming enthusiasts who prefer high-end PC gaming experiences and customizable hardware options. The tablet segment offers an alternative mobile gaming platform with larger screens and enhanced gaming capabilities, while the browser gaming PC segment, though smaller, serves casual gamers who prefer easily accessible gaming options without requiring dedicated hardware or software installations. Each of these segments caters to specific user preferences and gaming experiences, contributing to the overall diversity and growth of the gaming ecosystem in the Middle East.

Middle East Gaming Market Geography Segment Analysis

Middle East Gaming Market in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia stands as the dominant force in the Middle East gaming landscape, commanding approximately 21% of the regional market share in 2024. The kingdom's gaming ecosystem has been fundamentally transformed by its Vision 2030 initiative, which has shifted focus towards digital entertainment and gaming as part of its economic diversification strategy. The country's gaming market is particularly notable for its young demographic, with around 70% of the population under 30 years and approximately 20 million gaming enthusiasts. The Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS) has been instrumental in developing the local gaming infrastructure, offering training programs and organizing major tournaments. The country has also made significant strides in establishing dedicated gaming venues and esports facilities, while simultaneously attracting major international gaming companies to establish regional headquarters. The implementation of 5G technology and advanced cloud gaming services has further enhanced the gaming experience for Saudi players, making it a prime market for both mobile gaming and console gaming platforms.

Middle East Gaming Market in Iran

Iran's gaming market is positioned for exceptional growth, with projections indicating approximately 16% CAGR from 2024 to 2029. The country's gaming ecosystem is characterized by its robust domestic game development industry and a massive player base of over 32 million gamers. The Iran Computer and Video Games Foundation has been pivotal in nurturing local talent and supporting game development initiatives through various programs and incubators. The country's gaming landscape is particularly notable for its strong mobile gaming sector, with Android devices dominating the market at a 95% penetration rate. The National Institute of Game Development has been actively working to create a sustainable gaming ecosystem by establishing dedicated growth centers and supporting independent developers. The Iranian gaming market has shown remarkable resilience and innovation, particularly in developing culturally relevant content that resonates with both local and regional audiences. The country's focus on building a self-sufficient gaming industry has resulted in a thriving ecosystem of local developers, publishers, and gaming communities.

Middle East Gaming Market in Turkey

Turkey has emerged as a powerhouse in the Middle East gaming industry, particularly in mobile gaming development and publishing. Istanbul has established itself as one of the most important centers for mobile gaming development globally, hosting numerous successful gaming studios and attracting significant international investment. The country's gaming ecosystem is supported by robust acceleration programs and a wealthy network of investors and experienced entrepreneurs. Turkish game developers have successfully tapped into both the local market of over 30 million players and hundreds of millions more worldwide. The country's gaming industry is particularly notable for its success in developing casual and hyper-casual games that have achieved global recognition. Turkish publishers have demonstrated exceptional performance on major platforms like Google Play, consistently outperforming global averages in terms of user ratings and download numbers. The presence of specialized gaming accelerators and technical universities has created a sustainable pipeline of talented developers and gaming professionals.

Middle East Gaming Market in UAE

The United Arab Emirates has cultivated a sophisticated gaming ecosystem characterized by high mobile and internet penetration rates. The country has positioned itself as a regional hub for gaming innovation, particularly in emerging technologies like cloud gaming, virtual reality, and augmented reality. The UAE's gaming landscape is distinguished by its diverse player base, with significant participation from both male and female gamers across various platforms. The country has made substantial investments in gaming infrastructure, including the development of dedicated gaming venues and esports facilities. The UAE's strategic location and business-friendly environment have attracted major international gaming companies to establish regional operations. The country's gaming industry benefits from advanced telecommunications infrastructure and high smartphone penetration rates, enabling seamless gaming experiences across platforms. The emergence of local game development studios and publishing houses has further strengthened the UAE's position in the regional gaming market.

Middle East Gaming Market in Other Countries

The broader Middle East gaming landscape encompasses several other dynamic markets, each contributing uniquely to the region's gaming ecosystem. Kuwait has developed a strong mobile gaming culture with significant participation across various gaming genres. Bahrain has positioned itself as an attractive destination for game developers, leveraging its advanced digital infrastructure and strategic location. Oman has shown growing interest in gaming, particularly in console gaming and esports. Egypt has emerged as a significant market with a rapidly growing player base and increasing investments in gaming infrastructure. These markets collectively contribute to the region's diverse gaming landscape, each offering unique opportunities for game developers, publishers, and investors. The varying preferences and gaming habits across these countries have created multiple niches for specialized gaming content and services, while shared cultural elements allow for successful regional game launches and events.

Middle East Gaming Industry Overview

Top Companies in Middle East Gaming Market

The Middle East gaming market features prominent global players like Sony Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Apple Inc., Google LLC, Electronic Arts Inc., and NetEase Inc. These companies are driving innovation through the continuous development of advanced gaming platforms, cloud gaming services, and immersive gaming experiences. Strategic partnerships and collaborations with local entities have become crucial for market penetration, while operational agility is demonstrated through rapid adaptation to changing consumer preferences and technological advancements. Companies are expanding their presence through investments in local gaming infrastructure, the development of Arabic content, and the establishment of regional gaming hubs. Product innovation is particularly focused on mobile gaming platforms, subscription-based services, and cloud gaming solutions, reflecting the region's high smartphone penetration and growing demand for accessible gaming options.

Dynamic Market with Strong Growth Potential

The Middle East gaming market exhibits a mix of global technology conglomerates and specialized gaming companies, with international players holding significant market share while local developers are emerging rapidly. The market structure is characterized by intense competition among established players, particularly in console and PC gaming segments, while the mobile gaming sector remains more fragmented with opportunities for new entrants. Major companies are strengthening their position through strategic acquisitions and partnerships, particularly evident in the UAE and Saudi Arabia where gaming infrastructure investments are substantial. The establishment of gaming academies, e-sports venues, and specialized gaming zones demonstrates the market's evolution toward a more structured and professional ecosystem.


The market is witnessing increased consolidation through strategic investments and acquisitions, particularly in mobile gaming and e-sports segments. Global players are actively seeking partnerships with local content creators and developers to enhance their regional presence and cultural relevance. The competitive landscape is further shaped by government initiatives supporting gaming industry development, particularly in GCC countries where significant investments are being made in gaming infrastructure and talent development. Market dynamics are influenced by the growing emphasis on localized content, Arabic language support, and culturally appropriate gaming experiences.

Innovation and Localization Drive Market Success

Success in the Middle East gaming market increasingly depends on companies' ability to combine technological innovation with cultural sensitivity and local market understanding. Incumbent players must focus on developing region-specific content, establishing strong distribution networks, and investing in cloud gaming infrastructure to maintain their market position. The integration of advanced technologies like 5G, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality, combined with localized gaming experiences, will be crucial for market leadership. Companies need to build strong relationships with local partners, invest in regional talent development, and maintain flexibility in adapting to evolving regulatory frameworks, particularly regarding content restrictions and data protection.


For new entrants and challenger brands, success factors include identifying niche market segments, developing innovative monetization models, and leveraging mobile gaming opportunities. The market presents significant opportunities for companies that can effectively address the region's unique gaming preferences while maintaining global quality standards. Strategic considerations must include understanding regional payment preferences, establishing effective customer support systems, and building community engagement through local gaming events and tournaments. The regulatory environment, while evolving, generally supports market growth, though companies must remain vigilant about content compliance and data protection requirements, particularly in more conservative markets.

Middle East Gaming Market Leaders

  1. Sony Corporation

  2. Microsoft Corporation

  3. Apple Inc.

  4. Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.)

  5. Electronic Arts Inc.

  6. *Disclaimer: Major Players sorted in no particular order
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Middle East Gaming Market News

  • Apr 2023: Wemade, the South Korean game company behind the worldwide blockchain gaming platform WEMIX PLAY, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Saudi Ministry of Investment (MISA). The partnership will focus on developing and expanding Saudi Arabia's gaming and blockchain sectors.
  • May 2022: Gamerji, one of India's largest esports platforms, expanded into the Middle East. The service is already accessible in the United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia, with ambitions to expand into more MENA countries over the following three months.

Middle East Gaming Market Report - Table of Contents

1. INTRODUCTION

  • 1.1 Study Assumptions and Market Definition
  • 1.2 Scope of the Study

2. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY

4. MARKET INSIGHTS

  • 4.1 Market Overview
  • 4.2 Industry Ecosystem Analysis
  • 4.3 Industry Attractiveness - Porter's Five Forces Analysis
    • 4.3.1 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
    • 4.3.2 Bargaining Power of Consumers
    • 4.3.3 Threat of New Entrants
    • 4.3.4 Threat of Substitute Products
    • 4.3.5 Intensity of Competitive Rivalry
  • 4.4 Assessment of the Impact of COVID-19 on the Market

5. MARKET DYNAMICS

  • 5.1 Market Drivers
    • 5.1.1 Presence of Young and Millennial Consumers
    • 5.1.2 Adoption of Gaming Platforms, such as E-sports Betting and Fantasy Sites
  • 5.2 Market Restraints
    • 5.2.1 Issues like Piracy, Laws and Regulations, and Concerns Relating to Fraud During Gaming Transactions

6. CLOUD GAMING LANDSCAPE IN THE MIDDLE EAST

  • 6.1 Current Market Scenario
  • 6.2 Analysis of Addressable Market for Cloud Gaming in the Middle East
  • 6.3 Major Cloud Gaming Stakeholders in the Middle East
    • 6.3.1 Etisalat
    • 6.3.2 PlayPod
    • 6.3.3 PlayKey
    • 6.3.4 Nvidia (GeForce)
    • 6.3.5 Google Stadia
  • 6.4 Assessment of Major Factors Expected to Influence the Adoption of Cloud Gaming in Turkey
  • 6.5 Market Outlook

7. MARKET SEGMENTATION

  • 7.1 By Platform
    • 7.1.1 Browser PC
    • 7.1.2 Smartphone
    • 7.1.3 Tablets
    • 7.1.4 Gaming Console
    • 7.1.5 Downloaded/Box PC
  • 7.2 By Country
    • 7.2.1 United Arab Emirates
    • 7.2.2 Saudi Arabia
    • 7.2.3 Turkey
    • 7.2.4 Iran
    • 7.2.5 Kuwait
    • 7.2.6 Rest of Middle East

8. COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

  • 8.1 Company Profiles
    • 8.1.1 Sony Corporation
    • 8.1.2 Microsoft Corporation
    • 8.1.3 Apple Inc.
    • 8.1.4 Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.)
    • 8.1.5 Electronic Arts Inc.
    • 8.1.6 NetEase Inc.
  • *List Not Exhaustive

9. INVESTMENT ANALYSIS

10. FUTURE OF THE MARKET

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Middle East Gaming Industry Segmentation

Gaming is defined as playing electronic games conducted through multiple varieties of means, such as using computers, smartphones, consoles, or other mediums altogether. There is an increasing prevalence of high-speed internet connections, especially in emerging economies, which has made online gaming practical for more people in recent years. The market witnessed rapid growth in terms of users and games being downloaded primarily due to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Middle East Gaming Market is segmented by Platform (Browser PC, Smartphone, Tablet, Gaming Console, and Downloaded Box/PC), Country (United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, Kuwait, and the Rest of Middle East). The market sizes and forecasts are provided in terms of value in USD for all the above segments.

By Platform Browser PC
Smartphone
Tablets
Gaming Console
Downloaded/Box PC
By Country United Arab Emirates
Saudi Arabia
Turkey
Iran
Kuwait
Rest of Middle East
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Middle East Gaming Market Research FAQs

How big is the Middle East Gaming Market?

The Middle East Gaming Market size is expected to reach USD 7.04 billion in 2025 and grow at a CAGR of 11.02% to reach USD 11.87 billion by 2030.

What is the current Middle East Gaming Market size?

In 2025, the Middle East Gaming Market size is expected to reach USD 7.04 billion.

Who are the key players in Middle East Gaming Market?

Sony Corporation, Microsoft Corporation, Apple Inc., Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.) and Electronic Arts Inc. are the major companies operating in the Middle East Gaming Market.

What years does this Middle East Gaming Market cover, and what was the market size in 2024?

In 2024, the Middle East Gaming Market size was estimated at USD 6.26 billion. The report covers the Middle East Gaming Market historical market size for years: 2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024. The report also forecasts the Middle East Gaming Market size for years: 2025, 2026, 2027, 2028, 2029 and 2030.

Middle East Gaming Market Research

Mordor Intelligence provides a comprehensive analysis of the gaming industry. We specialize in detailed research across video gaming, mobile gaming, and PC gaming segments. Our extensive coverage includes emerging trends in cloud gaming, virtual reality gaming, and augmented reality gaming. This offers deep insights into the rapidly evolving interactive entertainment landscape. The report examines crucial developments in esports, competitive gaming, and online gaming. It also analyzes the growing importance of gaming accessories, gaming peripherals, and gaming hardware markets.

Stakeholders benefit from our detailed analysis of digital gaming trends. This includes game streaming platforms, gaming software developments, and the evolution of gaming services. The report, available as an easy-to-download PDF, covers crucial segments such as console gaming, browser gaming, and social gaming. It also explores the intersection of casual gaming and hardcore gaming demographics. Our research thoroughly examines gaming subscription models, interactive gaming innovations, and the distribution of digital games. This provides actionable insights for industry participants across the gaming entertainment ecosystem.