Esports World Cup Spotlights Qiddiya's Role in Saudi Arabia's Gaming Future

Riyadh, August 12, 2025, SPA -- Once a phrase signaling defeat, "game over" now marks the beginning of a powerful new era for gaming, a transformation perfectly embodied by the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, which unites elite players from around the globe.
   The event is managed like any other major international tournament, complete with professional refereeing, clear rules, commercial sponsorships, and live broadcasts reaching millions of viewers. This shift highlights how gaming has evolved beyond a hobby and into a powerful economic and cultural force, a new form of soft power.
   The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has strategically positioned itself at the center of this global shift, solidifying Riyadh's reputation as the "capital of esports." Through robust digital infrastructure and innovative initiatives, the nation is playing a major role in the multi-billion-dollar gaming sector.
   A key component of this national strategy is Qiddiya, a city designed with the ambitious slogan, "Play Life." Located 45 kilometers from Riyadh, Qiddiya is a foundational part of Vision 2030, envisioned as the world's first city built around gaming, combining entertainment, sports, and cultural facilities with smart residential neighborhoods.
   Qiddiya's vision is built on the "Power of Play," a concept that redefines play not just as a source of fun, but as a tool to inspire people, motivate communities, and transform economies. According to the Qiddiya Investment Company, this integrated system enhances quality of life, supports innovation, and develops the capabilities of future generations.
   In December 2023, Qiddiya announced the launch of a dedicated gaming and esports district, the first of its kind in the world, spanning over 183,000 square meters. Key features include four arenas designed to host major global esports events year-round, 25 esports clubs from around the world, and more than 30 regional headquarters for leading game development companies.
   With these ambitious plans, "game over" has indeed become a new beginning for Saudi Arabia. It is a chapter driven by the passion of gamers and the nation's ambitious vision, proving that gaming is no longer a simple pastime but a powerful tool for building a new future.
   -- SPA