Abu Dhabi unveils plans for $1B esports island

Abu Dhabi: True Gamers, a leading gaming lounge operator, has unveiled plans to construct an esports island in Abu Dhabi, with an estimated cost of $1 billion. The project aims to elevate the city's gaming scene to unprecedented heights, introducing innovative facilities and infrastructure dedicated to esports.

The proposed location for the esports Island project is between Al Bandar and Al Dana developments in Al Raha Beach, overlooking Yas Island and Raha Beach's housing developments. True Gamers co-founder Vlad Belyanin revealed that the project could cost approximately $1 billion, with the company committing between $280 million and $300 million.

True Gamers is currently in talks with high-profile investors to raise the full funds required for the project. Company representatives have confirmed the discussions, indicating significant interest from potential investors eager to support this initiative.

The esports island will comprise various sections catering to different aspects of the gaming industry. One of the key areas, The Digital Tower, will serve as a multifunctional hub housing meeting spaces, start-up accelerators and animation studios. Additionally, TG Arena will host esports tournaments and feature a computer club with approximately 100 PCs, a simulation racing section and console gaming facilities.

Vlad Belyanin, co-founder of True Gamers, expressed confidence in the project's potential to transform the gaming landscape in the Middle East. He emphasized the importance of strategic planning and market analysis in conceptualizing the esports island, highlighting the region's growing interest in esports and live entertainment.

The architectural design for the esports island project was crafted by a team of experts, including Abdullah Bin Baz and Haitham Khojali. Although Bin Baz shared the designs publicly, an official agreement between him and True Gamers has yet to be confirmed.

True Gamers' expansion plans extend beyond Abu Dhabi, with recent funding secured for the development of gaming lounges in Saudi Arabia. Co-founder Vlad Belyanin emphasized the company's commitment to elevating the global gaming culture.

Industry experts recognize the Middle East as an emerging force in the esports industry, with a large population of gamers and a thriving esports ecosystem. Alexander Schudey, managing director of True Gamers, highlighted the region's potential to shape the future of live entertainment and attract global audiences.

“The ambitious initiatives undertaken by countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE demonstrate their commitment to positioning the Middle East as a global hub for esports. These forward-thinking moves will not only attract global audiences but also pave the way for local talent to flourish in the world of competitive gaming”, said Schudey.