Saudi Arabia is completely invested in Vision 2030, and under this initiative, it has driven its newer interests in video games. While the country is thoroughly pushing the sports bar with the Saudi Pro League, the Esports World Cup comes as a bigger surprise.
Esports World Cup Announcement
On Moday, 23rd October, 2023, Saudi Arabia Crown Prince, Mohammed bin Salman, announced the beginning of Esports World Cup. He was seen sharing the stge with FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The press reported that the competition will be biggest of its kind with whopping prizes ever in the history of video games. The tournament is set to open its doors in the summer of 2024 in Riyadh, the capital of Saudi Arabia. The event is set to be organised by the Esports World Cup Foundation, a newfounded government non-profit organisation.
The Crown Prince stated, “The Esports World Cup is the natural next step in Saudi Arabia’s journey to become the premier global hub for gaming and esports, offering an unmatched esports experience that pushes the boundaries of the industry.”
He further said, “The competition will enhance our progress towards realising the Vision 2030 objectives of diversifying the economy, growing the tourism sector, creating new jobs in various industries, and providing world-class entertainment for citizens, residents, and visitors alike.”
What is Esports World Cup?
This is one-of-a-kind tournament that will revolve around video games. Clubs and players from differet genres will compete to grab the trophy of the ultimate Esports World Cup champion. For example, coompetitions will be held amongs the players of the popular video games such as PUBG and Call of Duty.
In January 2022, the Public Investment Fund (a global and domestic investor), launched the Savvy Games Group to grow the range and bandwith of esports in the Kingdom. The same year it announced to invest 142 billion Riyals ($37.8 billion) for escalating Saudi Arabia in the race of growing hub for gaming.
For this Esports Wolrd Cup, the kingdom focuses to set up 250 games companies in the region. This will also bring new job opportunities, draw tourists and create a new image of the Kingdom.
This mastermove by the Esports Federation and Sports Ministry will help to revive tourism during the summer, as Saudi Arabia experiences a significant drop in booking of hotels, level of tourism and consumer purchasing power during this season.
The country recently announced its biggest bid for hosting the 2034 FIFA World Cup.
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