Saudi Arabia Mobile Gaming Market

Saudi Arabia Mobile Gaming Market Size and Share:

The Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market size was valued at USD 1.25 Billion in 2024. Looking forward, IMARC Group estimates the market to reach USD 3.36 Billion by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 10.60% from 2025-2033. The Saudi Arabia gaming market share is driven by high smartphone penetration, which enables widespread access to mobile gaming across the region Advanced digital infrastructure, including 5G, supports seamless gameplay and increase revenue through enhanced user experiences. Government initiatives under Vision 2030 promote gaming investments, esports events, and local game development, profiting market revenue.

Government initiatives and investments play a crucial role in driving the mobile gaming market in Saudi Arabia. Vision 2030 emphasizes economic diversification, positioning gaming as a vital component of the digital economy. Investments in gaming infrastructure, such as esports arenas and digital platforms, fuels market growth significantly. Programs encouraging local game development create opportunities for Saudi developers to contribute culturally relevant content. The Saudi Esports Federation organizes high-profile tournaments due to which mobile gaming and competitive esports are gaining traction nationwide. Financial incentives and partnerships attract global gaming companies, bringing expertise and advanced technologies to the region.

High smartphone penetration and advanced digital infrastructure are critical factors driving the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market demand. The widespread availability of affordable and high-performance smartphones enables access to mobile gaming for all. Advanced 5G networks provide fast, reliable internet connections, enhancing multiplayer gaming and reducing latency issues. High-speed internet fosters seamless downloads and updates, ensuring a smooth gaming experience for users. Smartphone manufacturers focus on gaming-optimized devices, offering features like enhanced graphics and longer battery life. Affordable data plans by telecom providers make online mobile gaming more accessible to a broader audience. Improved cloud gaming technologies allow players to access high-quality games without requiring expensive hardware. Urban areas benefit significantly from advanced infrastructure, driving demand in cities like Riyadh and Jeddah

Saudi Arabia Mobile Gaming Market Trends:

Technological innovations

Advancements in 5G technology enable faster internet speeds, ensuring smooth gameplay and seamless multiplayer experiences. High-performance smartphones with advanced graphics capabilities make mobile gaming accessible to a broader audience. Innovations in augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) bring immersive experiences, attracting tech-savvy gamers. Cloud gaming platforms eliminate hardware constraints, allowing users to access high-quality games across devices. Artificial intelligence (AI)-driven personalization enhances user experiences by tailoring gameplay, rewards, and challenges to individual preferences. For instance, in October 2024, Ericsson partnered with King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) to launch a connectivity lab. The lab focuses on developing advanced network solutions for gaming and other applications in Saudi Arabia. Improved game development tools empower developers to create visually stunning and engaging mobile gaming content. Cross-platform play supported by technological advancements fosters social gaming and competitive multiplayer opportunities. Advanced monetization models, powered by analytics, help developers maximize revenue while maintaining user satisfaction. Voice recognition and haptic feedback technologies further enhance interaction and engagement in mobile gaming. The Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market overview highlights significant growth driven by innovative technologies and user-centric approaches. These advancements position the market as a dynamic player in the global gaming industry.

Rise of esports and competitive gaming

eSports tournaments organized by the Saudi Esports Federation attract large audiences and foster gaming enthusiasm nationwide. Mobile-based eSports games dominate the market share as they are preferred platforms for competitive play. High-profile gaming events and competitions catalyzes the market, attracting players and investments from global gaming companies. In July 2024, the IOC announced that the Olympic Esports Games will take place in Saudi Arabia in 2025. This marks a significant milestone in integrating esports into the global Olympic movement. Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 strategy supports this event, aiming to foster technology, innovation, and digital entertainment. Besides this, state-of-the-art digital infrastructure, including widespread 5G networks, ensures seamless gameplay for competitive mobile gaming enthusiasts. The popularity of mobile gaming as a social and interactive activity appeals to younger Saudi audiences. Streamers and influencers play a crucial role by showcasing mobile games through live streams and tournaments. Cash prizes, sponsorships, and rewards in competitive gaming increase participation and market appeal. Localized content and culturally tailored games encourage Saudi players to engage more in competitive gaming. The Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market outlook highlights growth opportunities driven by partnerships and advanced technologies.

Growing youthful and tech-savvy population

As per the United Nation Population Funds, World Population Dashboard 23% of Saudi Arabia’s population is under the age of 24. Young users, familiar with smartphones and digital platforms, embrace mobile gaming as a preferred entertainment option. Social media and online communities amplify the trend of mobile games among tech-savvy youth. Multiplayer and social gaming features attract younger audiences, enhancing engagement and fostering social connections. Freemium gaming models resonate well with youth, offering free access with optional in-app purchases for enhancements. High smartphone penetration among younger users ensures widespread access to mobile gaming across urban and rural areas. Saudi youth actively participate in eSports and competitive gaming, improving the mobile gaming ecosystem further. Youth-driven demand encourages developers to focus on innovative gameplay and culturally relevant content. Government support for technology education aligns with increasing youth interest in gaming and digital platforms.

Saudi Arabia Mobile Gaming Industry Segmentation:

IMARC Group provides an analysis of the key trends in each segment of the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market share, along with forecasts at the country and regional levels from 2025-2033. The market has been categorized based on type, device type, platform, and business model.

Analysis by Type:

• Action or Adventure
• Casino
• Sports and Role Playing
• Strategy and Brain

These games are highly popular due to their immersive experiences and engaging storylines. Players are drawn to the fast-paced gameplay, vibrant graphics, and challenges that provide a sense of accomplishment. Additionally, the rise of multiplayer features enhances social interaction, making these games a preferred choice for both casual and dedicated gamers.

Mobile casino games appeal to users seeking leisure and excitement without financial risks. Virtual poker, slot machines, and card games are gaining momentum due to their accessibility and the introduction of free-to-play models. The gamification of such games through rewards and achievements ensures user engagement. While the cultural and legal landscape in Saudi Arabia influences the market for real-money gambling, simulation and strategy-based casino games remain significant.

Sports games resonate strongly with audiences who are passionate about real-world sports, like cricket and football. Role playing games (RPGs) attract players by offering dynamic character development and personalized narratives. These genres leverage advanced graphics and realistic physics to deliver lifelike experiences. The increasing trend of esports in Saudi Arabia further encourages the interest in competitive sports-based mobile games.

Strategy-based games cater to audiences who enjoy intellectual challenges and problem-solving. These games encourage critical thinking and strategic planning, making them particularly appealing to a more mature demographic. Saudi Arabia's investment in educational gaming initiatives also promotes this segment, aligning with efforts to foster creativity and analytical skills among the population.

Analysis by Device Type:

• Smartphone
• PDA
• Tablet

Smartphones dominate the mobile gaming market due to their widespread availability and advanced capabilities. With high-resolution displays, powerful processors, and ample storage, smartphones offer seamless gaming experiences. The convenience of accessing games on-the-go (OTG) appeals to a wide audience, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where smartphone penetration is exceptionally high. Gaming companies optimize their titles for smartphone compatibility, making it the most preferred device type for players.

While PDAs were initially designed for productivity, their inclusion in the gaming market is minimal and largely historical. Modern devices with PDA-like functionality, such as gaming handhelds, have carved out a niche audience.

Tablets cater to users seeking larger screens and enhanced visuals for a more immersive gaming experience. Families and casual gamers often prefer tablets for their user-friendly interfaces and suitability for shared use. In Saudi Arabia, the tablet gaming segment finds a stronghold among younger audiences and those engaging in graphics-intensive or cooperative games.

Analysis by Platform:

• Android
• iOS
• Others

Android leads the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market statistics because of its extensive usage and cost-effectiveness. The platform's open-source design enables developers to design and share games with greater ease, leading to a varied collection of gaming choices. Given that a large portion of the Saudi population utilizes Android devices, gaming companies focus on this platform. The presence of affordable devices and compatibility with numerous game genres makes Android a popular option, especially among younger and casual gamers.

iOS caters to a premium segment of the market, with a focus on high-quality gaming experiences. Apple’s ecosystem offers superior graphics, seamless gameplay, and consistent performance, appealing to dedicated gamers. In Saudi Arabia, the popularity of iOS is influenced by its association with status and reliability. Developers often launch games on iOS first, ensuring the platform receives exclusive content or early access to popular titles, strengthening its position in the gaming market.

Analysis by Business Model:

• Freemium
• Paid
• Free
• Paymium

The freemium model dominates the market by offering free access to basic gameplay while monetizing through in-app purchases and ads. This model appeals to a broad audience, allowing players to engage without an upfront cost. In Saudi Arabia, freemium games are particularly popular among younger users and casual gamers who enjoy the flexibility of optional spending.

Paid games require an upfront purchase, offering a complete experience without in-app purchases or ads. This model appeals to users who value premium, ad-free gaming experiences. In Saudi Arabia, the paid model finds a niche audience among dedicated gamers seeking high-quality or narrative-driven games.

Free games generate revenue solely through ads and sponsorships, offering entirely cost-free gameplay to users. These games are gaining traction in Saudi Arabia due to their accessibility and appeal to casual gamers. Developers benefit from large user bases, monetizing through high ad impressions. Titles with minimalistic designs or short, engaging gameplay loops thrive in this category, as they attract players seeking quick entertainment.

The paymium model combines an upfront purchase with in-app monetization, targeting users willing to pay for premium features. This hybrid approach is less common but is gaining traction in Saudi Arabia among gamers seeking exclusivity or advanced functionalities. Paymium games cater to a discerning audience that appreciates additional content or features post-purchase, offering developers a diversified revenue stream while maintaining quality gameplay.

Regional Analysis:

• Northern and Central Region
• Western Region
• Eastern Region
• Southern Region

The Northern and Central region including Riyadh, serves as the economic and administrative hub of Saudi Arabia. High population density and advanced digital infrastructure drive strong demand for mobile gaming. With the government’s focus on Riyadh as a smart city under Vision 2030, technology adoption is robust. The concentration of gaming events and esports tournaments further enhances engagement. The region's affluent population contributes to higher spending on premium games and in-app purchases, making it a significant market.

The Western Region, home to cities like Jeddah and Mecca, benefits from a diverse and vibrant population. The cultural openness of the area encourages the adoption of new entertainment trends, including mobile gaming. The presence of tech-savvy youth and tourists creates a demand for casual and freemium games. Localized content targeting Arabic-speaking audiences thrives here due to cultural resonance.

The Eastern Region, known for its oil wealth, boasts a high standard of living and advanced infrastructure. This contributes to widespread smartphone adoption and strong internet penetration, supporting mobile gaming market growth. Affluent users in cities like Dammam and Al Khobar are willing to spend on premium gaming experiences. The region’s proximity to neighboring Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries fosters cross-border collaborations and competitive gaming culture. Developers often target this region for high-revenue opportunities due to its economic strength.

The Southern Region, with its more rural and sparsely populated areas, exhibits slower market penetration. However, improving internet infrastructure and rising smartphone adoption are impelling market growth. Casual and free-to-play games are more popular in this region, catering to cost-conscious users. Government efforts to expand digital access under Vision 2030 are expected to enhance gaming activity. As connectivity improves, the region offers untapped potential for localized content and community-driven gaming experiences.

Competitive Landscape:

Key players are focusing on creating culturally relevant games to cater to the preferences of Arabic-speaking audience. Investments in advanced technologies and innovative gameplay experiences ensure high engagement and user retention rates. Local developers, contribute by producing games that reflect regional traditions and values. Partnerships between global gaming firms and local entities foster knowledge exchange and market understanding. Strategic collaborations with smartphone manufacturers ensure compatibility and optimized gaming experiences across various devices. For instance, in December 2024, NEOM Media partnered with Kwalee, Sandsoft, Tamatem Games, and others to launch a gaming network. This collaboration will support Saudi Arabia's growing gaming ecosystem by connecting local developers to global publishers. The initiative aims to enhance innovation, diversify gaming, and promote programs like "She Jams" and "Game Dev Challenge." Government support through Vision 2030 initiatives encourages key players to invest heavily in the market. Esports events organized by gaming companies enhance the demand for mobile games amongst the youth.

The report provides a comprehensive analysis of the competitive landscape in the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market with detailed profiles of all major companies.

Latest News and Developments:

• April 2024: Infinix launched the GT 20 Pro in Saudi Arabia, a flagship gaming phone for esports. The phone boasts dual-chip processing, a 120Hz AMOLED display, and advanced cooling for better performance. It also forms part of the GT VERSE ecosystem, which includes gaming laptops and accessories designed for seamless play.
• March 2024: Sandsoft Games and NetEase launched Stellar Gate Games to enhance the MENA gaming market. The collaboration aims to drive the rapid expansion of the MENA gaming industry, contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. It will foster economic and social reforms by strengthening the gaming sector, one of the world’s fastest-growing markets.
• January 2023: Radian Arc, stc Group, and Blacknut launched cloud gaming services in Saudi Arabia. These services enable users to access gaming content via stc's advanced 5G network, ensuring smooth performance. Powered by Radian Arc's GPU Edge technology, the services promise low latency and high-quality experiences for gaming enthusiasts.

Saudi Arabia Mobile Gaming Market Report Scope:

Key Benefits for Stakeholders:

• IMARC’s report offers a comprehensive quantitative analysis of various market segments, historical and current market trends, market forecast, and dynamics of the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market from 2019-2033.
• The research study provides the latest information on the market drivers, challenges, and opportunities in the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming market.
• Porter's Five Forces analysis assists stakeholders in assessing the impact of new entrants, competitive rivalry, supplier power, buyer power, and the threat of substitution. It helps stakeholders to analyze the level of competition within the Saudi Arabia mobile gaming industry and its attractiveness.
• Competitive landscape allows stakeholders to understand their competitive environment and provides an insight into the current positions of key players in the market.