The inaugural Kingdom of Gaming, Saudi Arabia’s first dedicated platform for game creation, is scheduled to open in Riyadh from December 1 to 3, 2026. The event aims to bring together top global developers, publishers, investors, and creators, creating opportunities for collaboration and growth in the gaming sector. Over the three-day period, participants will engage in discussions, workshops, and training sessions, emphasizing the infrastructure, technology, and talent required to advance the industry in Saudi Arabia and the wider Global South.
Kingdom of Gaming is expected to attract more than 20,000 visitors, 300 exhibitors and sponsors, and 500 studios and developers. It will also feature over 50 startups, 200 investors, and 25 investment and publishing deals. Strategic activations and dedicated content districts will allow attendees to experience new gaming technologies, explore platforms for game distribution, and gain insight into investment opportunities. By connecting different segments of the gaming ecosystem, the event will provide a platform for the creation of new intellectual property and the development of emerging talent.
The event is being launched by Tahaluf, a joint venture between Informa and Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones (SAFCSP), and will be co-located with Black Hat MEA 2026. Annabelle Mander, EVP Tahaluf and Co-Creator of LEAP, highlighted that Kingdom of Gaming aligns with Vision 2030 to support Saudi Arabia’s creative economy. Riyadh is evolving from a market focused on consumption to a hub for game creation, attracting developers, studios, and investors who are shaping the next generation of gaming content.
Through Kingdom of Gaming, the focus will extend beyond game development to include publishing, distribution, investment, and technology infrastructure. The event will explore how studios and creators can leverage tools and platforms to scale globally while fostering local talent. By integrating startups and investors, Kingdom of Gaming seeks to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a growing destination for gaming innovation and investment, providing an ecosystem that supports both established companies and emerging creators in the region.
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