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RIYADH: Saudi Arabia’s robust digital infrastructure will help the gaming industry grow, said Musab Al-Malki, CEO of Spoilz.

“Now 5G (network) covers half of Saudi Arabia. So, having this speed of internet and very strong digital infrastructure, we support game developers to work remotely, not even in one central hub,” the head of the Saudi-based gaming platform said.

Speaking at the Next World Forum in Riyadh on Wednesday, Al-Malki also highlighted the importance of NEOM, which “involves rich culture, history and over 4,000 years of rich content.”

He said that due to the use of advanced technology Saudi Arabia, in general, and particularly NEOM, offers great opportunities for local and international developers.

Aziza Al-Ahmadi, CEO and founder of Dubai-based Bods Bunny Games, also described NEOM as a “futuristic project.”

Al-Ahmadi said that the region deserves a gaming hub. She said Saudi Arabia, particularly NEOM, will fill in the gap in the region.

The Next World Forum — Gaming & Esports Unleashed is hosted by the Saudi Esports Federation. The forum brings together a host of speakers from across the gaming and esports industries, along with featuring a series of activations, bilateral meetings, and investment opportunities. 

 In January, a report from Boston Consulting Group predicted that Saudi Arabia is expected to take a leading role in the gaming and Esports industry as consumption is projected to reach $6.8 billion by 2030, up from $959 million in 2020. 

The report expected an average annual compounded growth rate of 22 percent for Saudi gaming consumption.