Saudi’s thriving esports scene set for SAR 50 billion contribution to GDP

Saudi Arabia could enrich its national GDP by SAR 50 billion in the coming decade, if the nation continues to nurture its burgeoning esports market. A new study by PwC in collaboration with the Saudi Esports Federation suggests that the country could become one of the world’s leading hubs in the market.
The esports industry has seen rapid growth over the past decade, both in terms of viewership and revenue. The pandemic, and the lockdown that put global physical sports on hold at various junctures for two years, served as a further catalyst for the sector. The global eSports market is projected to grow from $2.06 billion in 2024 to $9.29 billion by 2032, according to PwC’s report.
The study suggests that Saudi Arabia should capitalize on the growth opportunity, and build on a number of foundations it has in place to realize its potential.
“The high levels of mobile and digital penetration, a large youth population, as well as active support from the governments in the Middle East has created a favourable environment for the growth of esports in the region,” said Abdulrahman Kanafani, partner at PwC.
“Esports now not just a source of entertainment; it has evolved into a cultural and economic force that has led to the emergence of professional players, teams, leagues, and substantial cash prizes. Given Saudi Arabia’s strategic focus on youth engagement and talent development, the country is well positioned to take advantage of this growing momentum in the esports industry.”
A sporting transformation
Currently, PwC and the Saudi Esports Federation estimate that there are 23.5 million gaming enthusiasts in Saudi Arabia – or roughly 67% of its population – while the country already hosts almost 1,000 professional gamers, pursuing esports as full-time careers.
Amid the Vision 2030 transformations across the nation, Saudi Arabia has invested in developing this foundation into an opportunity to grow out a major new aspect of its private sector; investing in digital infrastructure and growing gaming culture, with a focus on youth engagement and talent development.
With these moves positioning Saudi Arabia at “the forefront” of developing the industry, the researchers assert that by 2030, esports and gaming in Saudi Arabia could contribute $13.3 billion (SAR 50 billion) to the country’s GDP. This could also generate nearly 39,000.
The report comes shortly after Saudi Arabia bagged a major scoop in the scene, having last year hosted the first edition of the Esports World Cup. The world’s largest esports event featured 23 different events, spread over 22 video game titles, and also featured the biggest prize pool in esports history – with players in Riyadh vying for their share of $60 million.
Looking to build on this, Saudi Arabia has also unveiled plans for Qiddiya – the world's first comprehensive gaming and esports district. The city will be designed to attract an expected 10 million visitors annually, with the Saudi Esports Federation seeking to further secure the nation’s reputation as a global hub of esports.
Turki Alfawzan, chief executive officer at the Saudi Esports Federation commented, “As we look to the future, the esports sector stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia’s commitment to innovation and youth empowerment. Through strategic investments and a dedicated focus on talent development, we are building an ecosystem that positions the Kingdom as a global leader in esports.”