Saudi Arabia is stepping into the spotlight of the global gaming world. In a bold new move, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has launched a SR 2 billion National Gaming and Development Fund to support game development studios in the Kingdom. The announcement signals the country’s ambitious plan to transform into a top destination for the gaming and creative media industries.
This major investment is part of Saudi Arabia’s long-term strategy to diversify its economy and create new job opportunities for young talent. With a growing youth population and a deep love for gaming, this new initiative is expected to unlock huge potential and attract local and international developers.
A Game-Changing Step for Saudi Arabia
The SR 2 billion fund—equivalent to over half a billion US dollars—aims to fuel the growth of gaming studios in the country. It will offer financial support to both new and established developers, giving them the resources they need to build high-quality, competitive games.
The fund will also help create a stronger infrastructure for the gaming ecosystem. This includes everything from training programs and technical support to access to cutting-edge tools and technology.
“This fund is a huge step forward,” said one local developer. “We’ve been waiting for something like this. Now we can finally dream bigger.”
A Vision Beyond Oil
Saudi Arabia has been working hard to reduce its dependence on oil through its Vision 2030 plan. One of the main goals of this plan is to build a more diverse economy that supports innovation, creativity, and technology.
The gaming industry fits perfectly into this vision. Globally, the gaming sector is worth over $180 billion and continues to grow every year. By investing in this space, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a serious player in a fast-moving, high-potential market.
The Crown Prince has made it clear that the fund is not just about business. It’s also about giving young Saudis a platform to express their creativity, tell their stories, and shape the future of entertainment.
Building Local Talent and Global Partnerships
The National Gaming and Development Fund will not only focus on financial investment—it also aims to nurture local talent. Saudi developers will receive training, mentorship, and networking opportunities to improve their skills and compete on the global stage.
In addition, the fund is expected to attract global partnerships. International gaming companies may be invited to collaborate with Saudi studios, bringing in experience, knowledge, and technology that can boost the industry as a whole.
Experts believe that this kind of collaboration can help Saudi Arabia become a regional hub for gaming, serving not only the local market but also the wider Middle East and North Africa region.
Creating Jobs and Opportunities
One of the biggest goals of the new gaming fund is job creation. The Saudi government estimates that the gaming sector can generate tens of thousands of new jobs in the coming years—from developers and designers to marketers and event organizers.
This could be a game-changer for young Saudis, many of whom are passionate gamers themselves. Instead of only playing games, they now have the chance to build careers in the industry.
“Gaming has always been a part of our lives,” said a 23-year-old university student in Riyadh. “It’s exciting to think that now we can actually turn that passion into a job, maybe even build our own game studio someday.”
Supporting the Entire Creative Ecosystem
The National Gaming and Development Fund is part of a larger effort to grow Saudi Arabia’s creative economy. Alongside gaming, the government is also investing in digital media, film production, animation, and e-sports.
These creative fields are closely linked, and the hope is that by growing one area, others will benefit too. For example, a popular video game may inspire a short film or even a comic book series—creating new opportunities across the creative space.
Already, Saudi Arabia has begun hosting major e-sports tournaments and gaming expos that are drawing global attention. The country is building momentum fast, and this fund will only accelerate that progress.
A Bright Future for Saudi Gaming
With strong government support, a young and eager population, and growing global interest, the future of gaming in Saudi Arabia looks bright.
The SR 2 billion fund is more than just a financial investment—it’s a signal that the country is ready to take gaming seriously. It shows confidence in the talent of Saudi youth and opens the door to a new era of digital creativity.
As the Crown Prince continues to lead this transformation, Saudi Arabia is becoming one of the most exciting places for game development in the region—and possibly, the world.
Also read: Oman’s Growth Story: Oil, Innovation, and Big Opportunities
