The popularity of eSports has increased substantially during the past few years. Asia and North America are unquestionably the epicenters, but eSports gaming is also exploding in the Middle East and the Arab world.
One of the fastest growing technical and entertainment industries in the world is eSports, which has growing viewers and income. The gaming market had a spending development high in the first half of 2020 as a result of gaming’s transformation into a form of entertainment, escape, and connecting with loved ones.
The global eSports market is expected to increase from $776 million in 2018 to over $1.6 billion in 2023, according to analysts. Due to substantial funding and an increase in participants brought on by COVID-19 lockdowns, electronic sports are poised to gain even more traction in the Middle East. Let’s examine the elements contributing to the growth of eSports gaming in the Middle East.
WHAT HAS CAUSED ESPORTS GAMING IN THE MIDDLE EAST TO EXPAND? The increased interest in this industry is not the result of any one factor. Instead, a variety of events and variables contribute to the region’s eSports fervor. One of the most crucial factors is the number of internet users in the Middle East and North Africa. Contrary to what many people think, a sizable fraction of the population is logged on to the internet.
Another significant factor boosting the popularity of eSports in the area is the lack of opportunities to watch and participate in real-life sports. Due to COVID-19, many activities have been significantly curtailed or maybe discontinued. Because of this alone, millions of sports enthusiasts have begun to watch eSports and place bets on their favorite players and teams.
It is significant to note that the growth and development of the mobile industry has also had an impact on the appeal of video games. Additionally, a lot of gamers only play on their mobile devices, which increases the popularity of eSports. The average American gamer is expected to spend $115 a year on games. The market is growing rapidly as a result of rising smartphone and video game usage.
The Middle East’s gaming market is rapidly growing, transitioning from straightforward games to virtual reality and competitive sports. In MENA, the gaming and eSports industry is anticipated to expand due to a growing population of passionate gamers and adequate internet access, according to a market survey by YouGov. One of the elements causing the industry’s phenomenal growth is the fact that a substantial portion of gamers now find viewing video games online to be just as pleasurable as playing them.
More than 4,000 news pieces by Middle Eastern media outlets, including Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, have mentioned the phrase “eSports.” In contrast to 2019, there has been an increase of 107% in the overall media coverage of this industry. Additionally, since January 2021, there have been over 100,000 references to eSports in the Middle East on social media platforms.
For a $2 million prize, GAMERS8 launches the Fortnite competition in Riyadh. POOL The Fortnite competition was started by Gamers8, who invited some of the best gaming teams to compete for a $2 million grand prize. This competition was run by the Saudi Esports Federation at Boulevard Riyadh City.
Zero Build and standard Fortnite Battle Royale were the two categories for the competition. Initially, the management ran across a few problems. Pokimane, Tfue, and other professional Fortnite players were among the well-known personalities invited. Many people, nevertheless, opted not to go. Some participants were reprimanded by other players as well. Despite all of this, the event was a big success, and some of the best Fortnite players were among the participants.
The competition also featured FaZe Clan, who were the front-runners. Malibuca and EpikWhale, however, prevailed in the last match of the standard Battle Royale game following a thrilling conclusion. After an incredible comeback, Pinq and Anas won the No Builds Tournament.
A further effort by Saudi Arabia to introduce international eSports gaming to the Middle East may be witnessed in this competition. Additionally, wagering on some of the top Arab casino websites allows spectators to participate more actively in eSports gaming in the Middle East.
HOW DOES THE FUTURE SEEM? From 2022 to 2027, the Middle East gaming market is projected to expand at a CAGR of 13.88 percent. The recent COVID-19 pandemic is projected to promote the adoption of online gaming solutions, which will lead to major expansion in the region’s gaming industry. Because it is predicted that following COVID-19, many game providers will focus on expanding their user bases and witnessing rising revenues, retailers are offering incentives and deals and cutting the fees associated with utilizing their services.
The Middle East also benefits from a significant amount of local investment. As a result of strong local investment, the gambling industry in the area has prospered. Market analysts anticipate that eSports will grow considerably in this region. It should be made clear that eSports is a diverse industry with many different sub-genres. Numerous games attract a diverse group of players and spectators. From casual watchers to dedicated professionals, eSports provides a lot of benefits to its participants and fans.
This new investment strategy, which represents the bright future of the growth of eSports, is already being considered by many investors. It is anticipated that the development of 5G networks would hasten and facilitate further growth of the gaming sector, including among female players.
LAST THOUGHTS It is significant to remember that the sector can experience global proliferation in the years to come. The eSports market is growing on a global scale. The eSports and video game industry in the Middle East and North Africa is expanding quickly to attract players from all over the world and has a bright future.
