NEOM, Saudi Arabia: NEOM Co. and the Saudi Arabian Federation of Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS) have recently entered into a significant agreement. This memorandum of understanding sets the stage for a multitude of collaborative efforts and initiatives aimed at bolstering NEOM's aspiration to become a prominent hub for esports. By actively promoting and supporting this rapidly expanding spectator sport, NEOM aims to not only solidify its position as a leading esports capital but also stimulate its tourism industry. In a remarkable development, esports competitions are transforming into prominent tourist attractions, captivating audiences worldwide. This shift has led to a significant surge in revenue potential, prompting the construction of dedicated arenas in various corners of the globe. In the midst of this boom, Saudi Arabia stands out with its distinct advantages. The Kingdom boasts a remarkable 21% of its young and tech-savvy population actively engaging in online gaming on a weekly basis. This significant participation rate sets the stage for the emergence of a multitude of elite-level athletes spanning both genders. In a bid to tap into the immense potential of esports, a groundbreaking initiative known as SAFEIS has emerged. Its primary objective To foster the growth of the Saudi gaming community and offer talented athletes a chance to shine on the international stage. With aspirations of transforming Saudi Arabia into a prominent esports hub, SAFEIS is set to revolutionize the landscape of competitive gaming.
In a recent statement, HRH Prince Faisal Bin Bandar, President of the Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS), expressed his belief in the immense potential of NEOM to become a prominent force in the world of esports. Emphasizing the federation's unwavering commitment, Prince Faisal affirmed their determination to stand as a steadfast partner in this ambitious endeavor. NEOM, the land of the future, and SAFEIS, the gateway to the next generation and the sport of the future, are making waves in the world of innovation and progress.
In an exciting development, NEOM's Managing Director of Sports, Jan Paterson, has announced a partnership with SAFEIS. This collaboration holds great significance as it underscores NEOM's commitment to embracing esports as a vital component of its offerings. Paterson emphasized that this alliance aligns perfectly with NEOM's vision of positioning itself as the ultimate destination for the youth, who make up a significant portion of the esports community.
NEOM, a colossal undertaking, is currently underway in a vast expanse of 26,500 square kilometers encompassing untainted desert, coastal areas, and majestic mountains. This ambitious giga-project is strategically positioned along the border between Jordan and Egypt, situated in the northwestern region of the Kingdom. NEOM, the ambitious project, has set its sights on becoming a premier destination for sustainable living and futuristic experiences. With a bold vision in mind, the goal is to entice a staggering one million residents and welcome five million tourists by the year 2030.
Jan Paterson, managing director of sport at NEOM