Global gaming business opens regional HQ and esports venue in Saudi Arabia

LONDON: ESL FACEIT Group, a video game entertainment and operations business, opened its new regional headquarters and flagship esports venue in Riyadh on Tuesday, a move it said furthers its commitment to the growth of esports in Saudi Arabia.

It described the studio, which covers more than 1,000 square meters and can accommodate more than 500 guests, as Riyadh’s premier event space of its kind and said it will help solidify the city’s status as a global capital for esports.

It will serve as a hub for esports fans and communities, EFG added, while hosting local tournaments, such as the ESL Saudi Challenge, and international competitions. With more than 300 square meters of LED screens, it said, the venue also offers comprehensive facilities for broadcasters, as well a venue for brand activations and other marketing and media events.

“We are committed to supporting the Kingdom’s vision, tapping into its energetic, young population to fuel major growth,” said CEO Niccolo Maisto.

“With the opening of our new regional headquarters, we are establishing a new stage for our most exciting competitions, while helping to drive key infrastructure and localized content.

“We firmly believe Riyadh is becoming the global capital of esports, and we’re honored to play a leading role.”

EFG said its investment in the new facility is expected to create professional pathways for the development of Saudi talent and creation of jobs across multiple functions, including broadcast production, content creation, and community and event management. This is in line with the aims of Saudi Arabia’s National Games and Esports Strategy to create 39,000 jobs and contribute SR 50 billion ($13.3 billion) to national gross domestic product by 2030.