Gaming Showdown
The Dubai Esports & Games Festival, which is in its third year, hopes to smash the records set by the previous one. Over 50 games, including 11 exclusive titles and four world premieres, will be played on 200 machines. A remarkable 48,200 esports competitors and spectators from 91 different countries attended the 2023 edition. DEF 2024 promises to be an unprecedented event with even more exciting events. The incredible, immersive GameExpo will return, along with influencer esports competitions and the GameExpo Summit, presented by Pocket Gamer Connects, where industry insiders can network with worldwide specialists and stay up to date on the newest trends in gaming. To achieve the objectives outlined in the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, DEF 2024 promotes the expansion of SMEs, advances technical innovation, and fosters Dubai’s economic development. DEF 2024 bolsters Dubai’s position as a premier gaming destination globally by exhibiting the most innovative games available and uniting major industry figures for one modern festival.
The focal point of the festival is the GameExpo, which will take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre, specifically in Zabeel Halls 5 and 6, from May 3rd to May 5th. This year, the celebration of gaming culture moves to a new venue. Open to the public, this ticketed event invites gamers of all ages, interests, and formats. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore cutting-edge gaming products, and newly released titles, meet both regional and global gaming celebrities, and participate in esports competitions.
What is New?
GameExpo offers a diverse range of zones catering to different interests. The Gaming District awaits fans with the latest game releases and previews, while the Future Zone merges cutting-edge technology with the future of gaming. For those seeking a nostalgic experience, the Retro Zone offers a blast from the past. Additionally, The Narrows presents a bustling shopping alley filled with artists showcasing their craft, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. Families can enjoy bonding over gaming battles in the new Family Zone, while tech enthusiasts can explore the Electric Avenue, which hosts specialized electronic retailers offering the latest gaming gear at competitive prices. GameExpo 2024 boasts various activations including cosplay, esports tournaments, coding workshops, and Minecraft education challenges, ensuring an immersive and engaging experience for all attendees. Tickets for the expo will be available soon on the Platinum List.
At Play Beyond, gaming enthusiasts can witness thrilling match-ups and hard-fought gaming contests as their favourite gamers compete in the ultimate gaming showdown. With the participation of top regional and global stars and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities, Play Beyond promises to elevate the esports experience to new heights. DEF 2024 gears up for serious gaming action during Ramadan, featuring thrilling tournaments online and in gaming cafes across Dubai, with live finals set to take place during the festival period.
Special Features For Students
Students have the opportunity to enhance their digital skills through competitions like the Microsoft MakeCode Competition and the Minecraft Education Challenge. They can also gain insider insights into the gaming industry through Industry Expert Talks held in schools and universities, inspiring the next generation of gaming enthusiasts. Future gaming champions can engage in in-school tournaments featuring popular titles such as Rocket League and Fortnite, with university students competing in EAFC 24 and Valorant. DEF Gamers Day allows students to unleash their creativity by dressing up as their favourite gaming characters at school. The DEF Education Programme is offered for free to all participating schools and universities.
Building Connections
Dedicated school days on May 1st and 2nd provide students with an immersive experience at GameExpo, where they can interact with exhibits, gaming showcases, and more, igniting their passion for gaming like never before. Registration for the various competitions and activities is now live. Professionals in the gaming industry can stay ahead of the curve, enhance their knowledge, and network with industry experts at the GameExpo Summit, powered by Pocket Gamer Connects, the leading international games conference series. Taking place on May 1st and 2nd at the Dubai World Centre, this ticketed two-day networking and knowledge-sharing conference provides the perfect platform to explore the business of gaming and esports while establishing valuable connections.
The GameExpo Summit will feature a broad spectrum of the games industry, from local developers to international CEOs. Attendees can meet with developers, investors, publishers, and industry insiders, attend talks and panels, and engage in an environment buzzing with innovation and collaboration. The summit will also include a stage with 50 expert speakers, an expo area, a match-making platform for industry professionals to find their next business partner, a pitching competition for indie developers, and more.
Information Desk
For additional details and to sign up for ticket updates for the Dubai Esports & Games Festival 2024, please visit https://www.dubaiesportsfestival.com/en/home.html.
The website to visit for GameExpo Summit registration and further details is https://www.pgconnects.com/DubaiGameExpoSummit/.
School children between the ages of 7 and 12 can register to participate in the Minecraft Education Challenge here: Link for Registration.
