Playbook has entered into a strategic partnership with the Arab Esport Federation, marking a coordinated effort to expand access to professional development, leadership training, and entrepreneurial opportunities for gamers across 20 Arab countries. The agreement aims to align the region’s rapidly growing esports landscape with structured learning pathways and global industry networks.
The Arab world continues to see sharp momentum in its gaming and esports sectors, driven significantly by Saudi Arabia’s expanding investment plans. The Kingdom, now positioning itself as a major international gaming hub, has allocated $38 billion in planned investments through Savvy Games Group under the Public Investment Fund. In line with the national strategy targeting 2030, the sector is expected to contribute SAR 50 billion to GDP and create tens of thousands of new jobs. With nearly 90 million players across the Arab region, stakeholders say the market is entering a defining phase of growth.
The new partnership intends to support that trajectory by enabling emerging talent to tap into specialised training and a global network of industry leaders. Through Playbook, esports players and creators will be able to join expert-led masterclasses, leadership programmes, and entrepreneurship-focused sessions designed to build skills relevant to gaming, content creation, digital media, and technology-driven careers.
Wafa Al Obaidat, Founder and CEO of Playbook, said: “The gaming industry in the Arab world is moving at incredible speed. Talent is rising, investment is rising — and the opportunity is enormous. Through this partnership, we’re giving emerging gamers access to the learning, networks, and pathways they need to shape meaningful careers and build influence within this global industry.”
Rawan Albutairi, Secretary General of the Arab Esports Federation, said:
“Empowering the next generation of esports players across the Arab world is central to our mission. Through our collaboration with Playbook, we are equipping emerging talent with the skills, exposure and networks they need to thrive in a global industry. Together, we are building a unified pathway that helps transform passion for esports into sustainable careers and elevates the Arab region’s role in the global industry.”
The collaboration is set for an initial one-year term, with both organisations indicating an intention to expand the effort in line with regional gaming ambitions. The agreement includes plans to widen access to learning, reinforce community engagement across borders, and further establish the Arab region as a rising contributor to global gaming and digital entertainment.
