Saudi Arabia to Host Annual Esports World Cup Starting in 2024

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announced the launch of the Esports World Cup, to be held annually in Riyadh starting summer 2024. The annual Gamers8 event which is hosted in Riyadh will turn into the Esports World Cup starting 2024. It is expected to be one of the biggest esports events of 2024 and we can expect more information about the upcoming event shortly.

Everything you need to know about the Esports World Cup 2024

The event is expected to be the largest global esports event of its kind and will serve as a platform to support the gaming and esports sector and consolidate Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for international esports.

The launch of the tournament is expected to materialize the goals envisioned in Saudi Arabia's National Gaming and Esports Strategy. The strategy aims to increase the sector's contribution to the Kingdom's gross domestic product by more than SR50 billion ($13.3 billion USD) by 2030 and create 39,000 new job opportunities.

The crown prince also announced the establishment of the Esports World Cup Foundation, a nonprofit organization to increase collaboration between esports stakeholders. He said in the official announcement, “The Esports World Cup is the natural next step in Saudi Arabia’s journey to become the premier global hub for gaming and esports, offering an unmatched esports experience that pushes the boundaries of the industry.” 

He also revealed that the project will be aligned with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2023 objectives that target the country’s economy and tourism sector. The goal of the event is to offer “world-class entertainment” to residents and visitors alike.

The Esports World Cup will feature several popular games across various genres and will boast the largest prize pools for winners ever offered in esports history. The event will be complemented by a diversified set of activities and events for visitors.