The National Development Fund of Saudi Arabia has adopted a financing program for the gaming and eSports sector with an initial 2022 budget of 300 million SAR (Saudi Arabian Riyal), which by the end of 2023 surged to 1.09 billion SAR. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to provide debt products via the Social Development Bank, equity financing, and business accelerators in partnership with the private financial sector. The goal is to create a complete economic ecosystem through funding and empowerment, stimulating an environment conducive to national talent attraction, promising experiences establishment, and targeting quality projects in electronic game development and production, alongside supporting sports clubs in international competitions.

The Kingdom has been making rapid advancements towards its aspiration to become a global center for the gaming and eSports industries by 2030, witnessing significant growth coupled with innovative investments, initiatives, and global organizational alliances. Saudi leadership's interest has played a pivotal role in reinforcing the nation's position as a key player in the global eSports industry by developing infrastructure, investing in local talents, and promoting game content creation innovatively.

The national strategy for gaming and eSports, managed by roughly 20 governmental and private entities, plans to contribute directly and indirectly around 50 billion SAR to the GDP, create over 39,000 job opportunities in the sector, and position the country among the top three nations in the number of professional eSports players.

Market data reflects a rapid growth in the Saudi electronic gaming sector, with the market's size reaching 3.75 billion SAR in 2023 and projections to hit 10 billion SAR by 2026. This burgeoning sector represents a significant market share, influencing trade flow and consumption patterns within the Saudi market. Currently, the Social Development Bank is processing several financing applications that cover 60% of the budget approved by the National Development Fund for the gaming and eSports sector.

In a parallel move, Morocco is also intensifying its focus on the electronic gaming industry, seeking to reach revenues of 3 billion USD. The Moroccan government has detailed a development plan that includes the creation of the country's first city dedicated to electronic gaming, entailing an investment exceeding 26 million USD. The Moroccan market at present values the gaming industry at 130 million USD, small compared to the global market yet indicative of significant potential for growth.

The strategic emphasis on the gaming and eSports sectors is a clear reflection of the modernization agenda that is part of Saudi Vision 2030, a framework that aims to diversify the country's economy and reduce its dependence on oil. By capitalizing on the global popularity of gaming and eSports, Saudi Arabia is paving its way towards establishing itself as a major hub for digital entertainment and innovation.

Such ambitious goals set by the Kingdom necessitate robust sector-specific infrastructure. As part of this drive, significant strides have been made in enhancing internet connectivity and establishing state-of-the-art facilities that can host large international eSports events. Furthermore, the national program not only seeks to harness the skills of local gamers and developers but also aims to nurture the growth of content creation, gaming conventions, and digital platforms to distribute Saudi-produced games internationally.

Education and training programs are another cornerstone of the strategy, as Saudi Arabia is investing heavily in specialized university degrees and courses that focus on game development, animation, and eSports management. These programs are designed to equip Saudi youths with the requisite skills to excel in this rapidly expanding industry.

Recognizing the global interconnectivity of the gaming community, the Kingdom's strategy also includes fostering international partnerships and participating in worldwide tournaments and events. Through such engagements, it aims to not only boost its own gaming ecosystem but also drive cultural exchange and promote understanding through this digital medium.

While much of the initiative's success will depend on the uptake and eventual outcomes of the programs and investments, the clear direction and substantial support from the Saudi leadership underpin a commitment to transforming the Kingdom into a digital entertainment powerhouse in the Middle East and beyond.

Similarly, Morocco's own foray into the electronic gaming sector underscores a burgeoning interest in the industry across the region. The establishment of a city dedicated to electronic gaming symbolizes Morocco's recognition of the impactful linkage between technological advancement, creative industries, and economic diversification. This project, along with the Kingdom's ambitious targets, underscores the commitment of these nations to harness the potential of the digital economy and the opportunities therein.

The concerted efforts by countries like Saudi Arabia and Morocco to develop their gaming industries may trigger a domino effect, inspiring other nations in the region to invest in this sector. The Middle East is poised to become a significant landscape in the international gaming and eSports arena, considering its young and tech-savvy population, increasing internet penetration, and the rising appetite for digital entertainment.