Tapping into to a surge in the popularity and value of the esports sector, Abu Dhabi, has plans to develop an island dedicated to gaming.
The megaproject will be undertaken by True Gamers, a 2019 startup behind a growing entertainment and gaming empire of around 130 “lounges” around the world, particularly Eastern Europe and the Middle East and North Africa. True Gamers secured $45 million in funding to expand into Saudi Arabia in the first quarter of 2024. They aim not only to create physical spaces where esports enthusiasts can meet and gather, but also to promote the development of gaming culture more widely.
In Abu Dhabi, the gaming company is set to put in over $280 million to create a private island boasting unique experiences, including a PUBG-inspired parachute jump, a high-end training facility for professional gamers and teams, and a state-of-the-art arena hosting major events.
Two tower concept
Destined for a site at Al Raha, close to Zayed International Airport and Yas Island’s tourist spots, plans for the new development reveal a two-tower concept, one tower for the digital innovation spaces and one to house a “luxury” resort hotel. Influencers and developers will also find content creation spaces on-site.
The inclusion of remote workspaces aligns with a new vision for the UAE economy, the so-called “Abu Dhabi Vision 2030” plan, which means less dependence on income streams from oil and greater orientation towards services, knowledge and tourism. The city’s Department of Culture and Tourism Chair, Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, has confirmed that the state has invested over $10 billion in sponsorship and partnerships already.
Switch from oil exports to esports a “jump”
Robert Salomon, Dean of Stern School of Business at NYU Abu Dhabi, has told media the UAE’s economic model could be described as “unique and novel” in that it does not follow the common “export-led growth” model. Saloman described the planned switch from oil exports to services as a “jump”.
But focusing on esports is a canny move, as the sector raked in over $2 billion in the Middle East and North Africa alone in 2023 and is slated to keep expanding. Abu Dhabi is well placed to take advantage of this growth. It has form in the gaming industry, having twice welcomed the esports Blast Premier World Finals, as well as a number of prestigious non-e tournaments, such as NBA basketball, World Tour golf, martial arts, and the F1 season finale. Its new gaming island is expected to be worth over $1 billion when completed.
