Saudi Arabia to Host New Global Sports Conference

Saudi Arabia is set to solidify its position as a hub for the esports and entertainment industries by hosting the second New Global Sports Conference (NGSC) from August 24 to 25, 2024. The conference, themed “The Future of Fandom,” will delve into the profound impact of esports on various sectors and contribute to the realization of Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Vision 2030.

With a focus on exploring new dimensions in the esports and entertainment landscape, the conference aims to analyze how fans interact with esports and the wider industry’s resulting impact. The luxurious Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh will serve as the backdrop for this prestigious event, which will welcome more than 1,000 top-tier esports and gaming industry leaders.

The conference boasts more than 60 international speakers from diverse backgrounds, making it a dynamic platform for industry discourse. Notably, approximately 67% of the total population in Saudi Arabia plays video games, highlighting the high esports engagement rate in the country.

Attendees can expect a stellar lineup of global figures in the gaming and esports industry, including influential personalities like government officials, CEOs, and champions from various sports. This gathering of influential figures is a testament to the conference’s global significance.

The New Global Sports Conference will cover a wide range of topics, such as fan engagement, innovative revenue-generating strategies, and the role of technology in shaping the future of sports, particularly in esports. Discussions will also focus on enhancing fan loyalty, driving industry growth, and harnessing AI and social media to build passionate esports communities.

A special panel discussion titled “Games, Esports, and Sports: A Gateway for the Kingdom’s Connection with the World” will highlight the role of gaming, esports, and sports in positioning Saudi Arabia as a leading global hub. This aligns with the country’s National Esports and Gaming Strategy, which aims to make Saudi Arabia a prominent player in the sector by 2030.

The New Global Sports Conference is set to have a significant impact on the global esports sector, especially as Saudi Arabia prepares to host the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025. The event provides an ideal platform to discuss the challenges and opportunities in esports and emphasizes its growing role in shaping youth culture.

With a global market value of $187 billion, the gaming and esports industry offers countless opportunities for growth and prosperity. Saudi Arabia is poised to leverage this economic powerhouse, as its gaming and esports sector experiences remarkable development supported by Vision 2030 and its National Esports and Gaming Strategy. The country aims to create 39,000 jobs and contribute $13.3 billion to the Saudi economy by 2030.

Additional Facts:
1. Saudi Arabia has been actively investing in the esports sector in recent years. In 2019, the country’s Public Investment Fund partnered with several global investors to launch the Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS). This initiative aims to develop the esports ecosystem in the country and promote Saudi Arabia as a global esports hub.

2. The New Global Sports Conference is part of Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to diversify its economy and reduce its dependence on oil. Through Vision 2030, the country aims to develop various industries, including sports and entertainment, to create new job opportunities and drive economic growth.

3. The conference will provide a platform for global industry leaders to network, share insights, and explore potential partnerships. This collaboration can lead to the exchange of knowledge, technology transfer, and the growth of the esports and gaming industries not only in Saudi Arabia but also globally.

Key Questions and Answers:
1. What is the significance of hosting the New Global Sports Conference in Saudi Arabia?
Hosting the conference in Saudi Arabia highlights the country’s commitment to becoming a global esports hub and showcases its efforts to attract international esports and gaming industry leaders. It also provides an opportunity for Saudi Arabia to showcase its potential, discuss challenges, and collaborate with global stakeholders to further develop the esports sector.

2. What are the key challenges or controversies associated with hosting such conferences in Saudi Arabia?
Hosting a conference in Saudi Arabia may face scrutiny from groups advocating for human rights and freedom of expression due to the country’s human rights record and governance policies. Some critics may argue that hosting such events could be seen as an attempt to divert attention from these concerns.

Advantages:
1. Networking Opportunities: The conference provides a platform for industry leaders, influencers, and stakeholders to connect and establish partnerships, leading to potential business opportunities and collaborations.

2. Knowledge Sharing: The gathering of international speakers and experts allows for the exchange of insights, ideas, and best practices in the esports and gaming industry, fostering innovation and growth.

Disadvantages:
1. Controversy and Criticism: The host country’s policies and controversies may overshadow the conference and lead to debates and discussions that might distract from the intended focus of the event.

2. Limited Representation: While the conference aims to be inclusive and diverse, there may be challenges in ensuring representation from all regions and communities, potentially limiting the diversity of perspectives and experiences shared.