Gaming Industry in MENA: Stats, Insights, and Forecasts
Welcome to the world of gaming in the MENA region—where thumbs work overtime, screens get tapped to oblivion, and virtual battlegrounds become the hottest hangouts.
Whether you’re leveling up in a fantasy world or racing against your friends across the desert in pixelated supercars, gaming has taken the region by storm.
But what’s behind this digital love affair? Grab your controllers (or just your coffee) as we dive into the stats and insights that show how gamers in MENA are shaping the future of this multi-billion-dollar industry.
Spoiler alert: It’s not just about high scores—it’s about high stakes!
Gaming Industry Stats in the Middle East and North Africa
- The value of this industry is estimated at $7.45 billion in 2023.
- There are approximately 377 million Gamers in the Middle East, with gaming enthusiasts making up nearly 60% of the region’s population.
- According to the MENA Gaming & eSports Summit 2023, there are over 377 million Gamers in the Middle East.
- Saudi Arabia is one of the largest gaming markets in the MENA region, with 21.1 million gamers in 2020 and over $1 billion in revenue.
- Nearly 25% of the online population plays mobile games at least five days a week.
- The MENA region represents over 56% of the global eSports market, with over 377 million gamers.
- In 2019, the industry’s revenue was $2.28 billion.
- In 2022, the Asia-Pacific region accounted for 46 percent of the global games market, ahead of second-ranked North America with 27 percent market share.
- In 2023, Saudi Arabia had the highest distribution of gaming revenue in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, valuing to 57.6 percent.
- In 2023, 51.3 percent of e-sports gamers in the United Arab Emirates were between the ages of 25 and 34.
Gaming Industry Revenue Projections and Forecasts
The industry’s revenue is projected to grow at a CAGR of 16%, reaching $6.54 billion by 2026.
The value of this industry is growing steadily at a CAGR of 9.4% from 2024 to 2030.
In 2027, the gaming revenue in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region was forecasted to reach almost 2.65 billion U.S. dollars, up from about 1.9 billion U.S. dollars in 2023.
The number of gamers in the region was forecasted to reach nearly 80 million gamers by 2027.
Countries That Have The Highest Percentage of Gamers
In the third quarter of 2023, Indonesia had the highest video game user penetration at 96.5%, followed by the Philippines at 95.9%.
Popular Gaming Platforms in The Middle East
Console Games
PlayStation and Xbox remain favorites in the region, offering top-tier graphics, immersive experiences, and a strong lineup of exclusive titles. These platforms attract both casual and hardcore gamers seeking high-quality gameplay.
PC Games
PC gaming is highly popular, especially among enthusiasts who prefer customizable rigs and access to a wide variety of genres. The versatility and performance of PCs make them ideal for players who want more control over their gaming setup.
Mobile Games
The most significant growth has been seen in mobile gaming, thanks to the widespread availability of smartphones and affordable internet. Free-to-play models, low costs, and accessibility have made mobile games a massive hit across all demographics.
Online Games
Multiplayer games and eSports are on the rise, with popular titles like Fortnite, Call of Duty, and League of Legends boasting large, active communities. Competitive gaming events are also gaining traction, drawing both players and spectators in the region.
And there you have it, folks! Gaming in the MENA region isn’t just about killing time (or your enemies in-game)—it’s a booming industry that’s leveling up faster than your favorite RPG character. From mind-blowing stats to the ever-growing community of gamers, this is just the beginning of an epic journey. So, whether you’re a casual player or a die-hard fan, keep your eyes peeled—because the future of gaming in MENA is going to be lit! Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’ve got a leaderboard to climb.
Growth Drivers of the Gaming Industry
Several key factors have fueled the rapid growth of the gaming industry in the MENA region, transforming it into one of the most dynamic markets globally.
The COVID-19 Pandemic
The global pandemic acted as a major catalyst, with lockdowns and social distancing measures driving people indoors and online. Gaming quickly became a go-to source of entertainment and social connection, with players turning to virtual worlds to escape the isolation of real life. Whether it was casual mobile games or full-blown online multiplayer experiences, the surge in gaming was palpable. MENA was no exception, and gaming revenues skyrocketed as people had more time to play, connect with friends through games, and even explore new gaming genres they hadn’t considered before.
Proliferation of Diverse Gaming Platforms
Another major growth driver is the variety of gaming platforms available today. In MENA, mobile gaming reigns supreme due to the high penetration of smartphones and relatively affordable internet access. However, PC and console gaming also have loyal followings. This diversity means that gaming isn’t limited to just hardcore enthusiasts—it’s accessible to just about everyone. Whether you’re a competitive eSports player or a casual mobile gamer crushing candies on the go, there’s something for everyone. The accessibility across platforms has opened the doors to a much wider audience, fueling industry growth.
Cultural Shifts Towards Digital Entertainment
Over the past decade, there’s been a significant cultural shift in the region, with younger generations driving the move toward digital-first entertainment. Traditional pastimes have taken a backseat as gaming, streaming, and online content consumption have become mainstream. The growing acceptance of gaming as a legitimate form of entertainment, as well as its increasing social component (thanks to online multiplayer and live streaming), has reshaped the way people in MENA spend their leisure time. This cultural evolution has played a massive role in driving demand for more immersive and interactive digital experiences.
