The e-gaming industry is no longer a niche sector—it is a global movement. Fuelled by rapid technological advancement, increasing youth engagement and strong digital infrastructure, the sector has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry worldwide. In the United Arab Emirates (UAE), this growth is particularly striking, creating significant opportunities in the e-gaming industry. According to reports, the booming e-gaming industry revenue in the UAE is projected to reach $17.6m by 2029, with an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025–2029) of 6.96%. The country’s youth-driven demographic and increasing governmental support position it as a promising arena for digital gaming ventures.
Opportunities in the e-gaming industry are rapidly expanding in the UAE. From competitive gaming and e-sports tournaments to content creation and streaming platforms, start-ups opportunities in the e-gaming industry are driving a new wave of growth. With digital infrastructure and payment gateways now more robust than ever, the industry is attracting investors, developers and aspiring entrepreneurs who are eager to capitalise on the digital entertainment revolution.
The industry spans several distinct but interconnected segments. These include game development, publishing, localisation, streaming, tournament organisation, software support services and hardware design. Each segment offers unique value and presents distinct avenues for innovation. Start-ups in the e-gaming Industry that can integrate services across these segments—or specialise in one with excellence—stand to make a substantial impact.
A few key trends are shaping the future of e-gaming: • Mobile-first gaming: With smartphone penetration on the rise, mobile gaming is leading revenue charts. • Cloud-based gaming platforms: Removing hardware limitations and allowing users to access games anywhere, anytime. • Augmented and virtual reality: Immersive experiences are transforming user expectations. • Social gaming communities: Gaming is increasingly collaborative and community-driven. • E-sports as entertainment: Competitive gaming events are drawing audiences comparable to traditional sports. These trends reflect not only consumer preferences but also technological evolution—opening up multiple entry points for entrepreneurial ventures.
Startups have the agility and vision to tap into the evolving opportunities in the e-gaming industry. Whether offering software development, managing e-sports teams, building streaming platforms, or creating original content, the possibilities are extensive. The industry’s digital-first nature makes it especially attractive for lean, tech-savvy teams that can innovate quickly. Yet, to thrive in this fast-paced domain, startups need more than creativity. They require the right ecosystem—comprising infrastructure, regulatory ease, professional networks and cost-effective solutions. This is where RAKEZ's support for startups is making a decisive difference, establishing why UAE is an ideal location for e-gaming startups.
Recognising the momentum within this sector, RAKEZ has introduced a dedicated e-gaming business set-up package, creating significant opportunities in the e-gaming industry. Designed specifically for entrepreneurs in the gaming value-chain, this package covers 18 core and support service activities. Investors can select up to three activities under a single licence, offering flexibility and focus. More importantly, the package provides access to the RAKEZ Compass Coworking Centre—a collaborative workspace that nurtures innovation and strengthens support for e-gaming startups. With private and scalable workstations, it allows startups to interact with like-minded professionals, build meaningful partnerships and scale faster. As an introductory offer, RAKEZ is extending the same renewal rate for life and a free three-year residency visa to new e-gaming entrepreneurs. These benefits significantly reduce early-stage operational costs, enabling founders to focus on building their products and teams. This is a remarkable opportunity for emerging game studios, streaming platforms, and ancillary service providers to formalise their operations and grow within a structured environment.
Situated in Ras Al Khaimah, RAKEZ stands out as one of the region’s premier economic zones. It is home to over 30,000 companies spanning +50 sectors, with tailored solutions for both free zone and non-free zone entities. RAKEZ’s value proposition includes: • Simplified and fast-track set-up processes: From documentation to licensing, the journey is efficient and streamlined. • Customised business packages: Flexible licensing and facility options for all stages of business development. • State-of-the-art coworking and office spaces: Including flexi-desks, standard offices, and scalable private spaces. • All-in-one government services: Covering everything from visa facilitation to leasing support. • Industry-focused support: From accounting and recruitment to marketing services, every aspect of entrepreneurship is supported. The combination of cost-effective solutions, strategic guidance and a collaborative ecosystem makes RAKEZ a standout choice for digital-first businesses.
As digital interaction becomes a mainstay of everyday life, the e-gaming industry will only grow in influence and opportunity. The UAE’s digital economy vision, coupled with RAKEZ’s hands-on support, creates a favourable landscape for startups ready to make their mark. For e-gaming entrepreneurs seeking more than just a licence—those looking for a true launchpad—RAKEZ offers both the infrastructure and the inspiration. To explore the RAKEZ e-gaming business set-up package, visit www.rakez.com or call +9717204 1111.
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