The esports industry has grown considerably in recent years. One of this market's main features is its enormous base not only of players, but also of viewers worldwide. That engagement attracts major brands and investors, which see esports as an opportunity to reach a young and highly connected audience.
And the latest focus is in the United Arab Emirates, more precisely in its capital, Abu Dhabi. The idea is to build an entire island devoted to electronic competitions, with luxurious facilities and infrastructure unlike anything previously seen in this segment.
Investment Could Cost Around R$1.5 Billion
True Gamers is responsible for the investment in the gaming island. The company has expertise in several esports-related segments—such as tournaments, events, and other initiatives—and aims to turn the United Arab Emirates into a true center for the sector, attracting both regional and international talent to the country. Total investment is expected to reach 280 million dollars (almost R$1.5 billion at the current exchange rate).
The investment will encompass a broad esports ecosystem combined with a luxury hotel, offering 200 rooms equipped for gamers, futuristic tournament arenas, and a range of other cutting-edge facilities.
As for the location, the island will be built in Al Raha Creek, near Al Seef and close to Hope Island in Abu Dhabi. This would put the city at the forefront of the multibillion-dollar video game industry, attracting players, teams, and investors from around the world. The centerpiece will be the "TG Arena," a high-tech arena designed to welcome thousands of spectators and host major international tournaments, conferences, and exhibitions.
In addition, to ensure that aspiring professional players have opportunities, the venue will include professional training facilities, car-racing simulation areas, and spaces for content creation, supporting both established talent and newcomers to the gaming world.
Company Expects a Return on Investment Just 10 Years After Opening
True Gamers expects the investment in the gaming island to achieve "payback," meaning a return equivalent to the amount initially invested, in just ten years from the year it opens. Although this is a considerable sum, the company believes that the region around the United Arab Emirates is so receptive to games that the resources spent building the island will be recovered quickly.
They are not wrong. In fact, according to recent surveys, more than 60% of the region surrounding the country is actively involved in video games. This makes local companies, as well as the government, interested in developing the market, and the gaming island is a very interesting strategy for putting the country firmly on the esports map.
In an interview, True Gamers CEO Anton Vasilenko said that he had conducted an in-depth analysis to ensure the project could be completed without room for error. He stated: "True Gamers conducted a comprehensive market analysis of the esports landscape in the MENA region (Middle East and North Africa) and closely monitored the global growth of the video game industry before drawing up the plans for the island. This thorough analysis provided confidence that the proposed business model will be fundamental to making the 'Esports Island' a reality."
