Abu Dhabi to get its largest e-sports hub next year

Al Qana, a new waterfront destination in Abu Dhabi, will host the emirate’s largest e-sports and virtual reality gaming complex, said its developer Al Barakah International Investment.

By next year, the latest gaming center, named Pixel, will be completed and will open to families, gamers and enthusiasts of technology.

Al Barakah, based in Abu Dhabi, is joining forces with Lebanon-based Robocom VR, which will provide the hub’s content and technology.

Gaming sector

The gaming sector is currently the most profitable form of entertainment in the world and is split into mobile games, e-sports streaming and console purchases among others.

According to a report by market research company Newzoo last November, the gaming industry is worth $148.8 billion worldwide, while the market in the Middle East and Africa is estimated at around $4.8 billion, accounting for only 3 percent of the global value.

“Our partnership with Robocom VR will position Pixel as one of the most sought-after VR and e-sports destinations in the UAE. Pixel will also host the first accredited e-sports academy in the region with the mission of highlighting the importance of responsible playing.”

“There’s a constant demand for new and diverse location-based entertainment centers that fit the global standards across the Middle East,” Karim Ibrahim, chief executive of Robocom VR, said.

“With Pixel, gamers will have a chance to fully immerse themselves into new dimensions of gaming. We will provide an opportunity for gamers to grow and develop their professional talent to compete in international competitions and tournaments,” said Mr Ibrahim.

The hub will also have an event room for hosting tournaments, as well as an arcade area for gamers that will be run by gamers.

Situated on the waterway of Khor Al Maqta, Al Qana is preparing to open in Abu Dhabi by the end of this year. It is distributed over seven districts, totaling more than 2.4 kilometers, with over 50 percent of the leasable area dedicated to entertainment.