Riyadh: Saudi Arabia’s National Development Fund (NDF) has approved more than SR421 million ($112 million) in financing to support the country’s growing gaming and esports sector.
The funding was provided through the Esports and Gaming Financing Program and had benefited 82 organizations across different parts of the industry by the end of the fourth quarter of 2025.
According to a report highlighting the program’s achievements, the financing has helped support the development of more than 127 games. The initiative is aimed at strengthening local companies, encouraging investment and helping Saudi Arabia expand its presence in the global gaming and esports market.
Supporting the growth of the gaming sector
The National Development Fund said the financing program is designed to provide specialized financial support to companies operating in the gaming and esports sector.
The program focuses on helping businesses expand, encouraging innovation and creating opportunities for investment. It also aligns with the broader objectives of رؤية السعودية 2030, which seeks to diversify the Kingdom’s economy and develop new digital industries.
Najla Al-Ajmi, senior executive director of the Esports and Gaming Financing Program, said the report demonstrates the progress made in establishing a dedicated financing ecosystem for the sector.
The report also examines the development of gaming companies, changes in financing, successful industry initiatives and potential opportunities for future growth.
Saudi Arabia targets global gaming leadership
Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry has expanded significantly in recent years as the Kingdom seeks to establish itself as an important global gaming hub.
The Saudi Intellectual Property Authority previously reported that the country’s gaming market was valued at approximately $2.19 billion in 2024. It projects that the market could grow beyond $4.73 billion by 2033.
The government is continuing to promote investment and innovation in the sector as part of its efforts to develop the digital economy and strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position in the international gaming and esports industry.