Travel Guide for Gamers Across the Middle East
The Middle East has emerged as one of the world's most popular tourist destinations in the past ten years. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are some of the countries in the Middle East that have made huge investments in tourism and real estate. For many travellers, the vast deserts and world-class infrastructure in the Middle East make it a must-visit holiday destination.
For gamers, apart from the mesmerising views, the sheer number of esports arenas and gaming exhibitions in the Middle East makes it a top gaming destination. And while governments are still debating the future of casinos in the region, many players are already exploring online options. This is why guides and reviews are popular, helping players find a full list of the best Arabic casinos where they can enjoy slots, table games, and live-dealer experiences safely.
Building on this, there are talks on building the first-ever land-based casino in the region. Ras Al Khaimah, one of the emirates in the UAE, is expected to open a new resort in 2027, which would contain a land-based casino and would be operated by Wynn Resorts Limited.
With this shift in the gaming culture, more gamers are expected to visit the Middle East in the near future, and if you’re planning a trip soon, here are a few tips to guide you.
Check Out The Gaming Hubs
If you’re travelling to the Middle East, especially as a gamer, you’re not only going there for the views and rides in safaris, but you also want to experience the gaming culture. One of the best ways to experience it is by visiting esports arenas, gaming hubs, and cafes that are scattered across the region.
Governments in the UAE invest a lot in esports and gaming arenas. Dubai hosts massive events like the Dubai Esports Festival (DEF), while Saudi Arabia hosts the Esports World Cup (EWC). This year’s edition of EWC attracted over 2,500 players globally who competed for a prize pool of over $70 million.
Saudi Arabia is also planning to host the first edition of the Olympic Esports Games in 2027. Through these esports events, there are a lot of gaming hubs for travellers to explore. As a gamer, you can compete against local and international opponents in these hubs while experiencing firsthand the gaming culture in the region. Or you can just enjoy the experience of watching top players compete live in front of you and even get a chance to meet them.
These hubs are more than gaming domes; they are social hubs and are always buzzing with energy. There are food stalls, console lounges, and premium VR stations that make it look like you’re living in a sci-fi movie. They are also the perfect spots to hang out after a long day of sightseeing.
Plan Around Esports Tournaments
The Middle East is famous for esports tournaments, and they are a good way to experience the gaming culture in the region. Apart from the EWC and DEF, there are other annual gaming events that pull crowds.
For example, the Middle East Games Con in Abu Dhabi is a must-attend. It is a gathering of developers and cosplayers while featuring intense esports competitions. The Global Games Show is also another popular gaming festival in Abu Dhabi. It is going to be the largest B2B gaming event in the UAE. It will feature over 100 tech exhibitions and workshops for developers and innovators, and over 200 speakers.
If you’re planning to visit the Middle East, it is best to travel during these events. The next one is happening in December 2025. This way, you can make the best use of your holiday. You can connect with fans and developers across the globe while getting fresh gaming experiences.
Shop For Gaming Gear and Collectibles
A gaming trip isn’t complete without a bit of shopping, and there’s no better place to buy gaming gear and collectibles than the Middle East. Most global gaming brands have malls in the Middle East, thanks to its rich gaming culture.
During gaming festivals, you can also find pop-up stores selling limited-edition consoles, exclusive collectibles, and esports merchandise. You can also find gaming accessories designed with a cultural feel, designed by locals. These items serve as the perfect gifts to remember your trip. They are not just functional but also culturally significant as they remind you of the Middle East.
For gamers, the Middle East is an ideal destination for holidays. With a tech-focused environment, the gaming ecosystem is one of the biggest in the world. Gaming festivals here bring the gaming culture, while gaming hubs have a very futuristic feel. If you want to have fun and enjoy a wild experience as a gamer, the Middle East is just the place to visit.