Plans revealed for Middle Eastern esports venue, Dubai X-Stadium

16 April 2018

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Dubai Media Office and TECOM Group have announced the Dubai X-Stadium – the first esports-dedicated venue in the Middle East. The two companies hope that the stadium will “establish Dubai as a regional and global hub for hosting video game events.”

This initiative, co-developed by the DMO and TECOM Group, was endorsed by United Arab Emirates’ Prince Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in February of this year. This stadium is an effort for the nation to get in on the ever-growing esports industry and to help bolster tourism.

Mona Ghanem Al Marri, Director General of the Dubai Media Office said in a statement: “We are living in a world where digital culture is reshaping all aspects of life, including sports. This has led us to develop the concept of Dubai X-Stadium, which will consolidate Dubai’s status as a key digital economy hub. The idea aims at attracting millions of esports gamers, spectators and enthusiasts from around the world and offering them unique on-line and in-person experiences.”

Malek Al Malek, CEO of TECOM Group commented: “TECOM Group, a member of Dubai Holding, is proud to take part in conceptualizing the Dubai X-Stadium, where we seek to attract and harness the creativity, talent and innovation of young generations, which is largely in line with our strategic vision in TECOM Group.”

Esports Insider says: It’s an interesting move from the DMO and TECOM Group to get involved in esports in such a big way. The Middle East has somewhat lagged behind esports initiatives to date,  but if things are done properly, then this could serve as a hub for the region as a whole. There’s a trend forming around the development of esports venues on a global scale, and we’re excited to see what ensues.