- 1. A Global Gathering of the Gaming and Interactive Entertainment Ecosystem
- 2. Thought Leadership Driving the Next Era of Gaming
- 3. Esports, Web3 Gaming and Innovation at the Core
- 4. Dynamic Exhibition and Startup Showcase
- 5. High-Value Networking and Community-Led Engagement
- 6. Powering the Future of Gaming and Digital Entertainment
- 7. About the Global Games Show
- 8. About VAP Group
Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Global Games Show Abu Dhabi 2025 ran from December 10th-11th. It was produced by VAP Group and co-hosted by Abu Dhabi Gaming. The show ended on a high note.
It has become a major landmark in the world of gaming, Web3, esports, AI, immersive tech, and interactive entertainment.
The event brought together 5000+ attendees, 100+ global speakers, and 100+ companies. Game developers, publishers, Web3 innovators, esports leaders, investors, content creators, and policymakers met for two days.
They talked about how gaming is growing into a global, multi-billion-dollar blend of technology, culture, blockchain, artificial intelligence, and digital ownership.
Abu Dhabi has become a more and more popular place for gamers. This is due to its focus on entertainment and large investments made by Abu Dhabi Gaming.
The Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau partnered with the Global Games Show. Together they built a space that helps game companies, developers, content creators, and investors from around the world work together and shape the future of gaming.
A Global Gathering of the Gaming and Interactive Entertainment Ecosystem
The Global Games Show Abu Dhabi drew a varied, global crowd. Many types of gaming groups from each region took part:
- Game studios
- Publishers
- Web3 gaming
- Esports
- Investment
- Technology providers
- Game communities
The event also showed how fast gaming has changed. It has moved from older gaming models to player-centric economies, decentralized platforms, and mobile-first ecosystems.
It also showed the rise of immersive, lasting virtual worlds and growth models driven by communities. On top of this, it highlighted the role of gaming in our culture and as an economic engine.
Thought Leadership Driving the Next Era of Gaming
During the event, many gaming leaders shared views on how new tech and business models are changing the future of gaming. They showed how creative ideas can be joined with profits that grow at scale. They did this through keynotes, panels, fireside chats, and special talks.
Key themes explored included
- Future of Web3 Gaming & Decentralized Economies
- Expansion of Blockchain and Digital Asset Ownership within Games
- AI-driven Game Development, Analytics and Player Engagement
- Expansion and Monetization of Esports
- Infrastructure, Scalability and Interoperability of Game Development
- Community-driven Game Development and Creator Ecosystems
- Regulation, Sustainability and Future of Gaming Industry
- Convergence of Gaming and Immersive Worlds
Headline Speakers
Headline speakers included:
- Shawn Layden, Managing Partner, The Odysseus Partnership, Former chairman of PlayStation
- Jasper Hu, Principal Solutions Architect, PingCAP
- Sébastien Borget, Co-Founder, The Sandbox
- Mohammed Yaseen, Founder, Esports & Gaming Association UAE
- Yat Siu, Co-Founder & Chairman, Animoca Brands
- Cathy Hackl, Tech & Gaming Executive and Chief Executive Officer, Future Dynamics
- Daniel Wang, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Aethir
- Marcos Muller-Habig, Sector Enablement Director, Abu Dhabi Gaming
- Tess Hau, Founder, Tess Ventures
- Michail Katkoff, Founder, Deconstructor of Fun
Esports, Web3 Gaming and Innovation at the Core
Powered by the Times of Games, the Global Games Show Abu Dhabi put the rise of gaming and next-gen interactivity at its center.
Several sessions looked at how decentralization will bring new ways for players to own items, earn money, and engage with communities. This is changing the basic link between developers, players, and communities. For more on this shift, see our analysis of where Web3 gaming is heading.
Esports leaders and gaming founders spoke about how mobile esports keep becoming more professional, mainly across the MENA region, Asia, and LATAM. They also discussed how tournament formats and revenue models keep changing.
“As someone who recently launched a game, this event has been incredibly valuable. I met other starters, learned through meaningful conversations, and gained insights that will help shape my journey moving forward.” Kanessah Muluneh, CEO, Rise of Fearless
As co-host of the Global Games Show, Abu Dhabi Gaming used the event to show the emirate’s goal of becoming a leading global hub for gaming and esports.
Throughout the event, the Abu Dhabi Gaming team met directly with start-ups, studios, and investors. They presented the emirate’s strong incentives, funding options, and world-class infrastructure. These are open to companies that want to set up or grow in Abu Dhabi’s busy gaming ecosystem.
Dynamic Exhibition and Startup Showcase
The exhibition was a lively display of new ideas. Examples include:
- Game Publishers and Studios
- Web3 Gaming Ecosystems (web3) and providers of Blockchain Infrastructure
- E-sports organizations and competitive gaming formats
- The application of AI in gaming tools
- The use of immersive technologies in gaming
Visitors learned about the latest gaming tech through hands-on demos and live showcases. They saw all the newest work that will drive the future of interactive entertainment.
Startups were linked directly to investors, publishers, and strategic partners. Together they could plan for funding, partnerships, and global growth.
High-Value Networking and Community-Led Engagement
The Global Games Show brought together founders, developers, investors, creators, and policymakers. This encouraged teamwork and useful networking.
The event offered a range of curated networking formats. These included closed-door VIP meetings and an invitation-only Global Games VIP Dinner. They allowed focused and valuable talks.
“It’s great; there are very interesting people around here. I’ve already had a couple of interesting chats. Some old friends from all around the globe were coming. So I’m very positive about the event, and I love Abu Dhabi; it’s amazing.
I’ve been following the Abu Dhabi gaming guys for quite some time and how they’re developing the ecosystem here, and I’m all supportive of that. I really hope there will be some great games coming out of the region, some great products that also go to the West. That would be my hope. So I’m very much enjoying my time here.” Georg Broxterman, Founder & CEO, Game Influencer
Many other shows, local and global, take a transactional approach to engagement. The Global Games Show did things differently. It encouraged real talks between exhibitors and attendees and formed partnerships across industries.
It also built chances to work together across the whole ecosystem. This shows its role in laying a base for steady, long-term growth in the gaming industry.
Powering the Future of Gaming and Digital Entertainment
At the end of Global Games Show Abu Dhabi 2025, one thing was clear. Gaming has grown beyond entertainment. It is now a vital part of the digital economy, culture, and technological innovation.
“Amazing energy, passionate builders, and meaningful conversations.” Sebastien Borget, Co-Founder & Global Ambassador, The Sandbox & Sandchain
The Global Games Show brought together creators, tech experts, investors, and policymakers to define and drive the growth of gaming and interactive entertainment.
Building on this momentum, the next event in the Global Games Show series takes place in Riyadh on 29-30 June, 2026. It has the potential to grow further into a fast-growing market for game-related products and services. Our report on the Global Games Show Riyadh 2026 covers that edition.
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About the Global Games Show
The Global Games Show is a leading global platform. It brings together government leaders, policymakers, industry experts, and innovators to work together on artificial intelligence.
Powered by VAP Group, the event backs the UAE’s place as a leading global hub for new tech, digital change, and forward-looking governance.
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a leading AI, Blockchain, and Gaming consulting powerhouse. For 12+ years, it has delivered advanced AI & Web3 solutions. Its flagship global events include the Global AI Show, Global Games Show, and Global Blockchain Show.
It has a strong presence in the UAE, UK, India, and Hong Kong. Its 170+ experts help clients stay ahead through PR, marketing, bounty campaigns, and top global conferences. It also offers advertising, media, and staffing services.
Media inquiries:
Global Games Show Media team
This is a press release / sponsored content. Read our Sponsored Content Policy. This article is not intended as financial advice. Educational purposes only.
