Riyadh is no longer just a destination rich in history and culture but a rapidly transforming global gaming hub. The vibrant capital of Saudi Arabia is gearing up for the highly anticipated Global Games Show 2026, bringing pixels, pro players and groundbreaking technology together. Running from 9 to 10 February 2026, this premier gaming event promises to redefine the future of gaming like never before. The two-day event invites elite gamers, industry professionals and tech enthusiasts from around the world to indulge in a mix of cutting-edge innovation and rich cultural experiences. Let’s explore what makes Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 truly unmissable and get ready to dive into the world of esports and digital entertainment in the heart of the Arabian Peninsula!
What is the Global Games Show Riyadh?
Global Games Show Riyadh is a premier B2B gaming festival organized by VAP Group and powered by the Times of Games. Over 70 hours, the event will feature visionary panel discussions, hands-on demos of the latest games and immersive experiences in VR and AR that will shape the next era of gaming and e-sports. First inaugurated in 2024, the event will host its third edition in 2026. Set to be bigger than ever, Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 is expected to welcome around 10,000 attendees from over 40 countries across the Middle East, Asia, Europe, and the USA. The festival will also bring together approximately 200 media professionals, 100 speakers, and more than 100 exhibitors and sponsors representing over 30 industry verticals.
The key details of Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 are given below:
- Date: 9 February 2026 - 10 February 2026
- Venue: Malfa Hall, Riyadh
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What to Expect at the Global Games Show Riyadh
- Esports Extravaganza
Witness top-tier professional esports tournaments featuring fan-favorite titles, drawing massive crowds and global viewership. Expect nail-biting finishes and legendary plays from the world's best teams.
- Game Reveals & Demos
Be among the first to experience upcoming titles, groundbreaking hardware, and innovative gaming technologies from leading developers and publishers worldwide.
- Industry Insights
Attend panels, workshops, and networking events led by visionaries and pioneers in game development, esports management and digital entertainment. It's an unparalleled opportunity for industry professionals and aspiring creators.
- Interactive Experiences
Engage with interactive installations, virtual reality zones and community challenges that put you right in the heart of the gaming action.
- Cultural Fusion
Experience the unique blend of global gaming culture with traditional Saudi hospitality, creating an event atmosphere unlike any other.
Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 Schedule
Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 perfectly aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, showcasing the Kingdom’s commitment to becoming a global hub for gaming and esports. By highlighting local talent, fostering innovation and creating international opportunities, the event reflects the nation’s ambition to diversify its economy, develop digital industries, and position Saudi Arabia at the forefront of the global gaming ecosystem. The insights of the event are:
- Day 1 (9 February 2026)
Day one focuses on the Kingdom Transforming Global Esports, highlighting Saudi Arabia’s evolution as a sports powerhouse, breakthroughs in gaming engines and futuristic concepts like brain-computer interfaces and AI-driven game design. Attendees can learn how to build a career in gaming, connect with industry leaders and explore untapped opportunities around the world. The agenda for the day will feature the following spotlights and panel discussions:
- The Future of Digital Play: Where Gaming Meets Innovation (11:20 AM)
- The Global Impact of Mobile Esports Tournaments (12 PM)
- From Console to Cloud: The Future of Game Streaming (12:40 PM)
- Global Gaming Expansion: Lessons from Untapped Markets (1 PM)
- Day 2 (10 February 2026)
Day Two shifts focus to Gameconomics, diving into the evolving business of gaming-from crowdfunding and mobile opportunities to community empowerment and investor-developer partnerships. You will discover how Augmented Reality is changing the way we play, compete, and interact with games. The agenda for the day will feature the following spotlights and panel discussions:
- The Future of Global Tournaments: From Grassroots to International Leagues (11:20 AM)
- Who Will Own the Future of Immersive Gaming (12 PM)
- AR, VR & XR: Redefining How We Play (Spotlight - 12:40 PM)
- Community-Driven Gaming: Engaging Players in the Digital Era (1 PM)
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Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 Tickets & Passes
- Delegate Pass - USD 499
The Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 Delegate Pass provides two-day access to the exhibition and conference, along with entry to the official event app, complimentary coffee and tea, a lunchbox, and the Business Networking Zone, ensuring a productive and well-connected event experience.
- VIP PASS - USD 1,699
The Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 VIP Pass offers two-day exhibition and conference access, premium food and beverage service, VIP and Speaker Lounge entry, priority registration, reserved conference seating, access to the Business Networking Zone and an invitation to the exclusive VIP afterparty, delivering a truly premium event experience.
- VISITOR PASS - Free
The Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 Visitor Pass includes two-day access to the exhibition and conference along with full access to the official event app.
Tips for Visiting Global Games Show Riyadh
- Book your accommodation in advance to avoid unavailability
- Consider staying in areas close to event venues or metro stations
- Carry some cash in Saudi Riyal (SAR) for smaller purchases or local markets
- Learn a few words and phrases in Arabic language
- Check the eligibility and application procedure for your Saudi e-Visa
- Ensure passport validity of at least six months beyond the intended departure date
- Be mindful of public displays of affection
- Always ask permission before photographing people
- Dress modestly, with loose-fitting clothing that covers shoulders and knees
- Use the Riyadh Metro, taxis and ride-sharing apps (Uber & Careem) for getting around
The Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 is not just a spectacular event but a powerful symbol of Saudi Arabia’s embracement of innovation and welcoming of the global community. This is also an unparalleled opportunity for gamers, tech enthusiasts and curious travelers to witness history in the making right in the heart of the Saudi Capital. Looking to be part of this vibrant new chapter in the world of interactive entertainment? Book one of our Saudi Arabia tour packages and level up your travel experience. Riyadh is calling!
FAQs - Global Games Show Riyadh
Global Games Show Riyadh is a premier B2B gaming festival showcasing the latest in gaming, esports, VR, and AR. It brings together industry leaders, developers, media, and enthusiasts to explore innovations shaping the future of gaming.
The third edition of the Global Games Show will take place in Malfa Hall in Riyadh from 9 to 10 February 2026.
The Global Games Show Riyadh is designed for game developers, publishers, investors, media professionals, esports enthusiasts, and industry stakeholders from around the world.
During the event, attendees can participate in panel discussions, hands-on game demos, immersive VR/AR experiences, and networking opportunities with global industry leaders.
Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 is expected to welcome around 10,000 attendees from over 40 countries, alongside 100+ exhibitors and sponsors and 100 speakers.
The festival supports Vision 2030 by promoting local talent, fostering innovation, and positioning Saudi Arabia as a global hub for gaming, esports, and digital industries.
Yes, the event is open to international exhibitors, sponsors, media professionals, and attendees, providing a global platform for networking and collaboration.
Interested participants can register through the official Global Games Show Riyadh website. Opportunities are available for attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, and media representatives.
