Mega gaming festival returns to Expo City Dubai

The annual Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF 2023) is set to return next month for a bigger and better second edition.

The festival aims to celebrate the video games industry, interactive tech-driven entertainment and promote Dubai's position as a global hub for e-sports and gaming.

DEF 2023 will run from June 21 to 25 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City.

It will feature an array of events, including an interactive consumer show, regional and influencer e-sports tournaments, a business conference and B2B networking event that connects companies from all over the world.

The festival will also hold the GameExpo Summit powered by PG connects, which will serve as a forum for regional leaders to collaborate on ways to accelerate the gaming industry's growth.

"With this region being one of the world’s fastest-growing gaming markets, DEF is a highly anticipated annual festival that builds a legacy for esports and interactive entertainment companies, paving the way for high quality innovative content that will allow esports enthusiasts from around the world to enjoy the ultimate gaming experience," said Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO, Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment.

The annual Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF 2023) returns from 21 to 25 June 2023 at @expocitydubai. The festival aims to celebrate the Video Games Industry, interactive tech-driven entertainment and promote Dubai's position as a global hub for esports and gaming. pic.twitter.com/sDyKt1wokT

— Dubai Media Office (@DXBMediaOffice) May 4, 2023

The Play Beyond! event is a new addition to DEF 2023, bringing together international influencers into the mix.

The education engagement programme at the fest will provide school and university students with a platform to explore how gaming and e-sports can nurture talent, share expertise and raise awareness for innovative career paths.

Students will participate in a fascinating Minecraft Education Challenge exploring a Dubai based map.

There will also be a MakeCode competition, showcasing their coding and gaming skills, concluding in live grand finals at Expo City.

In school influencer visits, a cosplay theme dress up day and career talks from industry professionals will also make for an exciting educational offering for pupils and parents alike.

With its growing gaming consumer base and a fast-developing industry, the MENA market represents the fastest-growing segment of the games industry.

The festival and summit will bring players together to enjoy some of the latest and biggest games in the world as well as showcasing the best local and global talent and minds in the industry.