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Dubai: Game Expo set to return with 3 new areas from May 9 onwards
The event will showcase curated themed gaming zones, including high-stakes esports competitions, nostalgic retro arcades, family-friendly activities, and cutting-edge technology
- PUBLISHED: Thu 8 May 2025, 11:15 PM
Nine immersive gaming zones are set to return to GameExpo as part of the exciting fourth edition of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025.
This year's event will feature three brand-new areas, making it the largest edition yet. Attendees can look forward to influencer meet-and-greets, action-packed esports tournaments, classic arcade games, simulation racing, Web3 gaming, and much more.
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The event will showcase curated themed gaming zones, including high-stakes esports competitions, nostalgic retro arcades, family-friendly activities, and cutting-edge technology, all under one roof.
The event will run from May 9 to 11 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. It will take place from 2pm to 10pm on Friday and from 2pm to 11pm on Saturday and Sunday.
Speaking to Khaleej Times, Mona Al Falasi, Director of the Esports Strategy Department, said the event brings an expanded format that caters to gamers, families, and digital culture enthusiasts alike. There are dedicated family areas and main stages hosting high-energy tournaments.
Attendees can explore an exclusive marketplace featuring rare and limited-edition collectibles. A diverse selection of food and beverage options, including Alien Burger, Charkly, Coffee Matters, and more, will keep everyone energised throughout the day.
New zones
"We're creating a space where everyone from hardcore gamers to families can discover something exciting," Al Falasi stated. One of the key updates is the addition of three new zones, bringing the total to nine. These new zones include the Amazon Joy Quiz zone, which focuses on interactive experiences beyond gaming, and an expanded Just Dance area, allowing visitors to showcase their dance skills. The festival will feature over 120 playable games from top AAA publishers.
She explained that the competitive aspect of the festival is stronger than ever, with a prize pool exceeding Dh600,000. In addition to the headline tournaments on the main stage, smaller competitions are being held across various zones. Families are also encouraged to participate, with collaborative challenges and activities designed for all age groups.
"Families can even join challenges together. It's truly an event for everyone," said Al Falasi
"In addition to the major tournaments held on the main stage, which are larger and more prestigious events, we also organise smaller tournaments within each zone. This allows people to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the tournament," she added.
Lifestyle meets gaming
The event also offers a broader lifestyle appeal with exclusive collaborations. Benefit Cosmetics hosts beauty activations for female visitors, while Gillette offers grooming experiences for male guests.
"This is no longer just about sports; it's a community celebration," Al Falasi explained.
She noted the increasing presence of Emirati startups and creators, with companies like Fox3 and Dark Emerald joining the expo alongside popular local gaming cafés like True Gamer.
This year, GameExpo will also host the Dubai Cosplay Championship, which will celebrate creative costume design and performance with thrilling competitions and a grand prize pool of Dh30,000.
Students experience
On Thursday, students visited GameExpo on a school trip to learn more about innovation in gaming. During the Khaleej Times tour of the exhibition, they encountered 17-year-old students. Manea, Mohammed, Zayed, and Rashid, who began gaming at the age of 11, came on a school trip and stayed after school to enjoy the games and small competitions. Mohammed won Dh100 after winning a gaming challenge organized by Du.
A new educational program will engage students and educators through hands-on workshops, gaming challenges, and talks led by industry leaders, helping the next generation understand careers and innovations in gaming.
On Thursday, the event also welcomes the return of the GameExpo Summit, where over 100 experts will gather to discuss the future of gaming across AI, Web3, mobile, and esports, as well as recognise regional talent through the MENA Games Awards.
Tickets
Tickets for GameExpo are available exclusively on Platinumlist. Early bird offers start at Dh39 for students and Dh69 for adults for a single-day pass.
Three-day passes are priced at Dh69 for students and Dh139 for adults. Families can enjoy special group packages starting at Dh149 for one day (two adults and four children) or Dh299 for three days.
For a premium experience, limited Pro Gamer experience tickets are available from Dh199, offering exclusive meet-and-greets with gaming influencers.