Games for Change and AD Gaming have revealed the details of the upcoming Games for Change Middle East Summit, scheduled to take place in Abu Dhabi from December 14 to December 17. This marks the second edition of the summit, aimed at bringing together global and local leaders in the gaming and esports industry to support the growth of the gaming sector in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its neighboring countries. With the backing of the U.S. Mission to the UAE, the event is anticipated to draw international and local game developers, contributing to talent development, fostering international business relationships, and promoting sustainable and socially responsible business growth.
The UAE boasts a significant gaming community, with nine out of ten adults engaging in video games, and 23% being frequent gamers spending at least 11 hours per week on gaming activities. Additionally, the per capita industry spend on gaming in the UAE ranks among the highest globally. Recognizing the potential of the region, the summit focuses on supporting the gaming industry's growth by enhancing local talent, deepening international collaborations, and encouraging sustainable and socially responsible business practices.
In its second year, the summit will expand its focus on esports, reflecting the growing interest in the region. As local universities incorporate esports into game development programs and educators show increased interest in establishing esports clubs and dedicated spaces, there is a significant opportunity to leverage esports for education and community engagement, especially among the youth, who constitute 34% of the Emirati population.
The summit, spanning two days, will feature talks, workshops, and masterclasses, offering attendees insights into industry trends and showcasing innovative gaming and esports projects that have made a positive impact in communities. Networking sessions will provide ample opportunities to connect with global and regional industry leaders. An interactive arcade will highlight games developed by local game developers and students. Keynote speakers include industry experts such as Allison Matthews (Head of Minecraft Education, Microsoft), Nanea Reeves (CEO, Tripp), Jason Della Rocca (Co-Founder, Execution Labs), and other prominent figures in the gaming and esports space.
The event is expected to play a pivotal role in fostering positive impact through gaming, aligning with the UAE's shift towards a knowledge-based economy. The partnership between Games for Change and AD Gaming aims to reimagine the role of the gaming sector in global development and international collaboration, creating an ecosystem focused on innovation, education, and real-world impact. The Games for Change Middle East Summit is part of a broader collaboration between Games for Change, the United States, and the UAE, aimed at promoting cross-cultural collaboration by connecting talent in the UAE's growing video game industry with U.S. expertise and the global Games for Change movement. The inaugural summit held in October 2022 drew over 400 participants from the UAE games industry, government, and education, showcasing its success and setting the stage for the continued growth of the gaming sector in the region.
