With video gaming events gaining in popularity the world over, Dubai is set to get its very own dedicated esports stadium which will be a first for the UAE.

Named the Dubai X-Stadium, the project has been jointly initiated by Dubai Media Office and TECOM Group.  Once complete, the esports stadium will establish Dubai as a regional and global hub for hosting video gaming events.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and chairman of the board of trustees of Dubai Future Foundation has endorsed the project under the Dubai 10X initiative.

“We are living in a world where digital culture is reshaping all aspects of life, including sports. This has led us to develop the concept of Dubai X-Stadium, which will consolidate Dubai’s status as a key digital economy hub,” Mona Ghanem Al Marri, director general of the Dubai Media Office said.

“The idea aims at attracting millions of esports gamers, spectators and enthusiasts from around the world and offering them unique on-line and in-person experiences,” she added.

The global video gaming industry is currently valued at $99.6 billion with revenues estimated to cross the $1.5 billion mark by 2020. As such, the Dubai X-Stadium is poised to play a vital role in this segment upon completion.

Esport events provide the perfect confluence of the media, gaming and event industries and are a huge hit among the younger demographics the world over.

“TECOM Group, a member of Dubai Holding, is proud to take part in conceptualizing the Dubai X-Stadium, where we seek to attract and harness the creativity, talent and innovation of young generations, which is largely in line with our strategic vision in TECOM Group,” said Malek Al Malek, CEO of the TECOM Group.