The Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) has officially launched the SEF Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City, a versatile space covering 25,000 square meters. The venue is designed to host a wide range of events, including esports, entertainment, and sporting activities, contributing to Saudi Arabia's growing focus on diversifying its economy under Vision 2030.
The arena features a flexible esports stage of 11,000 square meters, a broadcast studio, and the SEF Academy dedicated to nurturing young talent in the gaming industry.
In addition to serving as a hub for domestic leagues such as the Saudi eLeague Elites and the Women's League, the arena also houses the SEF Legacy Museum. This museum showcases the federation's significant role in the global gaming and esports sectors since its establishment in 2017.
The museum is open daily and allows visitors to explore the history and development of esports in Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Arabia's investment in esports and gaming extends beyond the SEF Arena. The country has made substantial investments in global esports companies like ESL FACEIT Group and Hero Esports and will host the Esports World Cup in 2025 with a $70 million prize pool.
The International Olympic Committee has also partnered with Saudi Arabia's National Olympic Committee for the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, initially scheduled for 2025 but postponed to 2027. However, these initiatives have drawn criticism due to concerns over Saudi Arabia's human rights record, particularly regarding women and LGBTQ+ rights.
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