Prime Highlights:
- ESL FACEIT Group (EFG)has opened a new regional headquarters and esports studio in Riyadh, boosting Saudi Arabia’s growing gaming industry.
- The move supports Saudi Arabia’s goal to become a global hub for esports, creating new opportunities for local talent and innovation.
Key Facts:
- The new 1,000-square-meter facilitycan host over 500 guests and includes 300 square meters of LED screens for advanced productions.
- The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s National Games and Esports Strategy, which aims to create 39,000 jobsand add SAR 50 billion ($13.3 billion) to the economy by 2030.
Background:
Global gaming and esports company ESL FACEIT Group (EFG) has opened its new regional headquarters and flagship esports studio in Riyadh, marking a big step in making Saudi Arabia a leading center for competitive gaming.
The new facility covers over 1,000 square meters and can host more than 500 guests. It includes state-of-the-art production technology and more than 300 square meters of LED screens. The studio will host local and international esports events like the ESL Saudi Challenge and will also be used for brand promotions, media work and community activities.
EFG CEO Niccolo Maisto said he is excited about the company’s growing presence in Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry and its role in supporting the country’s vision to become a global gaming hub. “We are committed to supporting the Kingdom’s vision by tapping into its energetic, young population to fuel major growth.
With this new regional headquarters, we are establishing a new stage for our most exciting competitions and localized content,” he said. Maisto added that Riyadh is rapidly becoming the “global capital of esports,” and that EFG is proud to be at the forefront of this transformation.
The project supports Saudi Arabia’s National Games and Esports Strategy, which aims to create 39,000 jobs and add SAR 50 billion ($13.3 billion) to the country’s economy by 2030.
EFG’s new headquarters will create more job opportunities for Saudi talent in broadcasting, content creation, event management, and community work.
Mohammed Alasiri, EFG’s HR Director, said the new studio is “a place for local talent to grow and reach global standards,” highlighting the company’s goal to support and train Saudi professionals in esports.
Having operated major tournaments and festivals globally for over two decades, including the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, EFG continues to expand its reach with popular titles like Counter-Strike, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Call of Duty.
“With this new studio, we are bridging local Saudi audiences with our global fanbase, creating long-term opportunities for players, fans, and brands alike,” Maisto said.
