The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), through its Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE) and in partnership with the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), has launched the third edition of the Saudi Game Champions program, a six-month initiative in Riyadh designed to cultivate national talent in the gaming industry. Announced via the Saudi Press Agency on October 6, 2026, the program aims to help participants transform their ideas into playable prototypes and promising projects while supporting entrepreneurship and technological innovation across the Kingdom.
Context and Background
Saudi Arabia has been rapidly expanding its digital economy as part of Vision 2030, with the gaming and esports sector emerging as a key pillar of this transformation. The National Gaming and Esports Strategy, launched in 2022, set ambitious targets to create 39,000 jobs and contribute SAR 50 billion to GDP by 2030. The Saudi Game Champions program, now in its third edition, directly supports these objectives by nurturing local talent and fostering a vibrant ecosystem for game development.
The Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE), an initiative under MCIT, focuses on empowering entrepreneurs and innovators in the digital space. The National Technology Development Program (NTDP) complements these efforts by providing funding, mentorship, and infrastructure to tech startups. Together, they have crafted a comprehensive program that bridges the gap between raw talent and industry-ready professionals.
Key Details
The third edition of Saudi Game Champions offers an integrated journey combining specialized mentorship, development workshops, and hands-on practice. Participants will engage in a six-month curriculum that covers all stages of game creation, from conceptualizing an initial idea to producing playable experiences. The program is open to developers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone passionate about game development.
A highlight of the initiative is a three-day Game Jam in Riyadh, where participants will work in teams to develop electronic game prototypes, fostering creativity, teamwork, and technological innovation. The program also provides a collaborative environment for knowledge exchange and skill enhancement, with guidance from gaming industry professionals.
Interested individuals can register through the official link provided by the ministry: https://code.datalexing.sa/en/public/form/vatlCIKXLzJSMYsz_Pf0dzgTjOxQR90cZyYJpvv2Ows?view=form.
Implications and Impact
The launch of the third edition builds on the success of previous cohorts, which have already begun to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional hub for gaming and digital innovation. By equipping local talent with the skills needed to compete globally, the program contributes to the growth of the digital entrepreneurship ecosystem and enhances the sector’s competitiveness.
This initiative also aligns with broader efforts to diversify the economy away from oil, creating new opportunities for young Saudis in creative and technology-driven fields. As the gaming industry continues to expand worldwide, Saudi Arabia’s investment in human capital through programs like Saudi Game Champions positions the Kingdom as a forward-looking player in the global digital economy.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The Saudi Game Champions program exemplifies the Kingdom’s commitment to Vision 2030 by fostering innovation, supporting entrepreneurs, and developing a knowledge-based economy. Through such initiatives, Saudi Arabia is not only empowering its youth but also laying the foundation for a sustainable and diversified future, in line with the goals of the National Gaming and Esports Strategy and the broader digital transformation agenda.
20 Questions
Q1. What is the Saudi Game Champions program?
A1. It is a six-month initiative by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, through CODE and NTDP, to develop national talent in game development and entrepreneurship.
Q2. Who launched the third edition?
A2. The Ministry of Communications and Information Technology’s Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE) and the National Technology Development Program (NTDP) launched it.
Q3. When was the third edition announced?
A3. It was announced on October 6, 2026, according to the Saudi Press Agency.
Q4. Where will the program take place?
A4. The program is based in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, with a three-day Game Jam event also held in the capital.
Q5. How long is the program?
A5. The program runs for six months, offering an integrated journey of mentorship, development, and practice.
Q6. Who can apply for the program?
A6. Developers, designers, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in game development are eligible to apply.
Q7. What does the program offer participants?
A7. It offers specialized mentorship, development workshops, hands-on practice, and the chance to create playable game prototypes.
Q8. What is a Game Jam?
A8. A three-day event where participants work in teams to develop electronic game prototypes, fostering creativity and teamwork.
Q9. How can interested individuals register?
A9. They can register through the official link provided by the ministry on the CODE website.
Q10. What is the goal of Saudi Game Champions?
A10. The goal is to develop national talent, support entrepreneurship, and prepare Saudis to contribute to the gaming industry.
Q11. How does the program support Vision 2030?
A11. It supports Vision 2030 by developing the digital economy, creative industries, and creating jobs in the gaming sector.
Q12. What is the National Gaming and Esports Strategy?
A12. A national strategy launched in 2022 to create 39,000 jobs and contribute SAR 50 billion to GDP by 2030.
Q13. What is CODE?
A13. CODE is the Center of Digital Entrepreneurship, an initiative under MCIT that empowers digital entrepreneurs and innovators.
Q14. What is NTDP?
A14. The National Technology Development Program provides funding, mentorship, and infrastructure to tech startups in Saudi Arabia.
Q15. What skills will participants gain?
A15. Participants will learn all stages of game creation, from idea generation to producing playable experiences, and enhance teamwork and technical skills.
Q16. Is the program only for Saudi nationals?
A16. The program is aimed at developing national talent, but specific eligibility details can be found on the registration page.
Q17. What happened in the previous editions?
A17. Previous editions successfully supported national talent and projects, contributing to the growth of the gaming ecosystem.
Q18. How does this program impact the Saudi economy?
A18. It helps diversify the economy by fostering digital entrepreneurship and creating opportunities in the creative and technology sectors.
Q19. What is the significance of the gaming industry in Saudi Arabia?
A19. The gaming industry is a key part of Saudi Arabia’s digital economy strategy, with high growth potential and job creation.
Q20. Where can I find more information?
A20. More information is available through the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology and the Saudi Press Agency.
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