Dubai is betting on gaming, with a growing ecosystem to become a global hub.

Dubai is accelerating its drive to become a global gaming powerhouse. The Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG33) , an initiative launched by the Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), has announced significant results demonstrating the rapid development of an increasingly robust gaming ecosystem. With over 350 companies already operating in the emirate, 260 of which specialize in video game development , Dubai is positioning itself as an emerging player in a global industry worth approximately $200 billion.

The initiative, launched in November 2023 under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum , has already demonstrated remarkable effectiveness. Since its introduction, more than 60 new companies have been founded in the sector, marking a growth rate of 16.6% and making the emirate a hub for talent and innovation.

As a demonstration of the seriousness of its commitment, the Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 is preparing for a historic event: it will host the first-ever government pavilion from the Middle East at Gamescom 2025 , the world’s largest video game trade show, which will be held in Cologne, Germany, from 20 to 24 August.

Participation in Gamescom is not just a showcase, but a strategic statement. The pavilion will showcase Dubai's rich talent pool, cutting-edge infrastructure, and favorable environment for designers, developers, and entrepreneurs . Representing the Dubai government will be the Dubai Future Foundation, the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, and the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre, underscoring a coordinated, cross-sector approach.

“ Dubai continues to strengthen its global competitiveness by focusing on innovation and exploring future opportunities ,” said H.H. Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Chairperson of Dubai Culture and Arts Authority . Her participation underscores DPG33's vision of transforming gaming passion into successful ventures, strengthening the creative economy, and opening new avenues for sustainable growth.

Investment in the gaming sector is an integral part of Dubai's economic agenda, the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33) , which aims to double the emirate's GDP by 2033. The DPG33 contributes to this goal by setting a target of creating 30,000 new jobs and a $1 billion boost to GDP by 2033 .

Partnerships are at the heart of this strategy. In 2025, the program intensified its relationships with global giants such as Sony, Nvidia, Riot Games, and Xsolla to attract investment and foster collaboration. In this context, the role of entities like the DMCC (Dubai Multi Commodities Centre) is crucial . As Ahmed bin Sulayem, CEO of the DMCC , emphasized: “ Today, over 140 gaming companies, representing 40% of Dubai's gaming industry, are headquartered in the DMCC, supported by our dedicated Gaming Centre, which is anchored in a broader tech and Web3 ecosystem of over 3,200 members .”

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation , reiterated the industry's limitless potential: “ The gaming sector holds unprecedented economic potential, and Dubai was – and will remain – a land of opportunity and a destination for innovators and creators. ” Participation in Gamescom 2025 is the most visible expression of this ambition, marking a pivotal moment in which Dubai is not only attracting the industry, but also presenting itself as a proactive leader on the world stage.