Dubai: The Dubai Chamber of Commerce has collaborated with gaming industry leaders to establish a new organization that aims to strengthen the gaming industry’s development and facilitate collaboration, a media release said.
According to the release, the Dubai Gaming and Esports Group (GEG) was officially launched in January 2024, consisting of 29 key members. The group will be guided by a board of industry veterans, all committed to shaping the future of gaming in the region. These include Kishan Deepak Palija, Chairman (CEO of Geekay Group), Wadih Al Sayah, Vice Chairman (CEO of Al Musaed), Rajib Roy, Director of Membership and Marketing (CEO of Royex Technologies LLC), Edward Kondrat, Secretary General (Business Development Manager of Gen.G), Saeed Sharaf, Board Member (CEO of Esports Middle East).
According to some estimates, the UAE’s gaming sector is poised to generate a revenue of $420.9m in 2024. Furthermore, the market is projected to maintain a steady annual growth rate of 5.40% resulting in a projected market volume of $492.90m by 2027.
The GEG was founded to help facilitate this growth and connect industry leaders to build a healthy environment for the industry.
According to the release, the GEG aims to strengthen the gaming and esports industry through a variety of initiatives. By advocating for the sector to the government and other key stakeholders, the GEG seeks to foster supportive policies and regulations. In-depth research on market trends, consumer preferences, and industry advancements is conducted to inform decision-making for businesses and governments. To cultivate community and collaboration, the GEG creates platforms for interaction among industry professionals, including developers, publishers, event organizers, and players.
Educational programs such as events, workshops, and seminars are offered to enhance skills and knowledge in areas like game development, marketing, event management, and competitive gaming. Local talent is promoted by supporting game developers and esports athletes through exposure, competitions, and resources. The GEG will also organize gaming tournaments, expos, and conferences to spotlight the industry and showcase talent and products.
The GEG provides financial support to help gaming and esports startups and projects secure investments. Additionally, it offers guidance on financial management and business operations. To foster global connections, the GEG cultivates relationships with international gaming communities, bringing valuable expertise, events, and opportunities to Dubai. The GEG will collaborate with the government to develop policies that promote the growth of the gaming and esports ecosystem. Furthermore, it will conduct public awareness campaigns to increase understanding and acceptance of the industry, highlighting its benefits and career prospects.
"The introduction of GEG is a pivotal moment for the gaming sector in the UAE. Our focus is on creating a vibrant community where businesses, developers, and enthusiasts can connect, innovate, and grow together,” said Kishan Palija, Chairman of the GEG.
“This organization will be instrumental in providing the necessary support and resources to help our industry flourish," he added.
Wadih Al Sayah, Vice Chairman of the GEG, said, “By offering a unified voice for gaming professionals and ensuring access to crucial funding and resources, we aim to empower both established and new players in the market. Furthermore, our collaboration with educational institutions will help cultivate the next generation of talent, driving sustained growth and innovation."
Saeed Sharaf, GEG board member, said, “By bringing together key stakeholders and fostering collaboration, we aim to unlock the sector's potential and position the UAE as a recognized leader in the global gaming and esports landscape."
