Visit Saudi has partnered with Power League Gaming (PLG) and TikTok LIVE to transform the way esports content is broadcast across the Middle East and North Africa. The collaboration debuted with the PUBG Mobile Pro Invitational, staged as part of the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia, where 16 of the region’s leading teams competed for a prize pool of USD 10,000. Among the contenders were popular names such as RA’AD, Falcons, Al Qadsiah, Twisted Minds and Virtus.pro. With live production run from PLG’s dedicated studio in Dubai and exclusive streaming on TikTok LIVE, the initiative marks a major step in expanding gaming entertainment across regional digital platforms.
PUBG Mobile remains one of the most influential games in MENA’s mobile gaming market. According to a 2024 Ipsos-PLG study, awareness of the title in Saudi Arabia stood at 52%, while usage reached 41%. This dominance continues to shape the region’s gaming culture and competitive ecosystem. In parallel, TikTok has rapidly emerged as a critical channel for gaming engagement, with more than half of Saudi gamers using the platform for updates and over a quarter naming it as their preferred destination for esports-related content. The collaboration taps into these strong audience trends, combining advanced live production with mobile-first streaming formats that resonate with a young, tech-savvy demographic.
Highlighting the technical backbone of this initiative, PLG CEO Mathew Pickering emphasized the company’s capacity to deliver high-quality esports experiences. He noted that PLG’s 10,000 square foot Dubai studio is equipped with 360-degree gaming content production capabilities, state-of-the-art broadcasting hardware, and robust IT infrastructure—enabling fast and culturally relevant programming. TikTok LIVE Trust & Experience Manager for MENA, Yahya Munir, echoed these views, pointing to TikTok’s role in shaping digital entertainment and creating opportunities for communities to connect through creativity and shared passions. He expressed pride in collaborating with PLG and acknowledged Visit Saudi’s support in bringing the project to life.
By combining PLG’s infrastructure and expertise with TikTok LIVE’s expanding reach, the partnership provides a new platform for Arab esports talent and reinforces the region’s position as a growing force in the global gaming industry. Saudi Arabia’s esports sector is being driven by strong youth participation, global-scale tournaments, and continued investment in competitive gaming. With initiatives like the Esports World Cup and collaborations that bring together international platforms and local talent, the Kingdom is strengthening its presence at the center of the MENA gaming ecosystem. PUBG Mobile, as one of the most recognizable and influential competitive titles, remains an anchor for this growth and continues to engage millions across the region.
Follow the SPIN IDG WhatsApp Channel for updates across the Smart Pakistan Insights Network covering all of Pakistan’s technology ecosystem.
