Abu Dhabi is making substantial investments in the development of an esports island, aiming to cultivate a robust gaming ecosystem.
A general view shows Abbu Dhabi's skyline across the Gulf waters in the Emirati capital on January 24, 2022. (Photo: KARIM SAHIB/AFP via Getty Images)
Unveiling Plans for Esports Island
Positioned to become a premier esports hub, Abu Dhabi secures a significant partnership with an international gaming operator for a groundbreaking megaproject.
Amid the escalating global enthusiasm for esports, Interesting Engineering reported that True Gamers unveiled plans to construct a gaming island in Abu Dhabi.
According to the company's official announcement, with an initial investment exceeding $280 million, True Gamers anticipates the project's overall value surpassing $1 billion in the near future.
This is poised to bring the project's grand aspirations to fruition, including acquiring a private island and introducing innovative experiences like a PUBG-inspired parachute jump check-in.
Envisioned as a multifaceted endeavor, the project's roadmap entails the construction of two towering structures. One tower will serve as a digital technology and innovation workspace, while the other will be designated as a resort hotel.
The gaming island is set to feature a top-tier training facility tailored for professional gamers and teams alongside a cutting-edge arena capable of hosting major events. Furthermore, it will encompass dedicated spaces for content creation, catering to influencers and game developers alike.
Notably, the company plans to erect a distinctive luxury hotel themed around esports to provide the gaming community with an immersive and unparalleled experience.
Strong Track Record in Hosting Major Sporting Events
Amidst the rapid growth of the esports industry, Abu Dhabi's endorsement of the Esports Island initiative is significant. In the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region alone, esports revenue surged to $2 billion in 2023, with the UAE and Saudi Arabia contributing substantially to this figure.
Set to be situated near Abu Dhabi's renowned Yas Island, this distinctive esports destination will be developed in Al Raha, strategically located near Zayed International Airport and adjacent to key tourist attractions on Yas Island.
Yas Island has gained global recognition as a premier sporting hub, having successfully hosted numerous prestigious events such as UFC mixed martial arts cards, Formula 1 season finales, DP World Tour golf tournaments, and NBA exhibition games.
Moreover, Abu Dhabi boasts a commendable track record in organizing esports events, with the recent hosting of the Blast Premier World Final marking another milestone. This international tournament featured a $1 million prize pool.
Anton Vasilenko, CEO and co-founder of True Gamers, emphasized the thorough market analysis conducted on the MENA region's esports landscape and the global esports industry's growth trajectory. This analysis instills confidence in the proposed business model's potential to bring the esports island project to fruition.
The establishment of the esports island represents more than just a venture into gaming and entertainment; it's a strategic move in line with Abu Dhabi's "Vision 2030" plan. This ambitious initiative aims to transition the economy away from dependency on oil revenues towards a more diversified base rooted in knowledge and tourism.
The investment in esports aligns seamlessly with the broader economic objectives outlined in the plan, furthering the government's efforts to reshape and enhance the emirate's economic landscape.
