Abu Dhabi plans to construct a $1 billion eSports island including a hotel and “parachute jump check-in.”

Abu Dhabi’s eSports landscape is set for a monumental transformation with a proposed investment of $1 billion. True Gamers, a leading gaming lounge operator, has unveiled plans to develop the city’s first-ever eSports-focused zone, as reported by The National.

The envisioned island will serve as a dedicated hub for eSports competitions, training facilities, and athlete accommodation, marking a significant milestone on a global scale.

One potential site for this ambitious “eSports Island” project is within the Al Raha Beach district, strategically positioned between the Al Bandar and Al Dana developments. Vlad Belyanin, co-founder of True Gamers, estimates the project’s total cost at $1 billion, with the company pledging $280-300 million. Discussions with prominent investors are currently underway to secure the required funding.

Situated amidst Yas Island and Raha Beach’s residential complexes, the proposed island holds immense promise. Planned sections include The Digital Tower, housing meeting spaces, startup accelerators, and animation studios; TG Arena, featuring eSports tournament arenas, a computer club, simulation racing, and console gaming; and a boot camp area tailored in consultation with eSports team managers worldwide.

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According to eSports Insider, the project includes the construction of GG Resort, a hotel featuring 200 gaming-equipped rooms, complete with a unique “parachute jump check-in” inspired by popular First Person Shooter (FPS) games like Call of Duty and PUBG. Anton Vasilenko, CEO of True Gamers, highlights the extensive market research validating the project’s feasibility.

While architectural blueprints have been drafted by a reputable team, discussions regarding the project’s finer details are ongoing.

True Gamers, renowned for its gaming lounges in Dubai and Eastern Europe, recently secured $45 million for expansion in Saudi Arabia, aiming to strengthen the kingdom’s eSports industry.

The initiative aligns with the global gaming surge, with the Middle East emerging as a significant player, boasting three billion gamers worldwide and 500 million eSports enthusiasts.

Alexander Schudey of the Boston Consulting Group emphasises the region’s commitment to eSports, positioning it as a future powerhouse in live entertainment, fostering both global engagement and local talent development.

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Key Highlights of the Island:

• GG Bootcamps will cater to serious gamers seeking tournament readiness, offering state-of-the-art facilities and tailored nutrition programs.
• GG Resort, a luxurious hotel with 200 gaming-equipped rooms, will provide guests with an unparalleled gaming experience alongside leisure amenities.
• The Digital Tower will serve as a dynamic business hub, featuring contemporary workspaces and animation studios.
• TG Arena will be the focal point for eSports activities, hosting international tournaments, digital exhibitions, and large-scale conferences.

Anton Vasilenko, CEO and co-founder of True Gamers, underscores the thorough market analysis conducted before the project’s development, instilling confidence in its viability.

Established in 2019, True Gamers has expanded its network to 124 eSports halls across the UAE and Eastern Europe. In Saudi Arabia, an investment exceeding $45 million will see the opening of 150 clubs under the True Gamers banner.

While no completion date has been announced, stakeholders can expect ongoing updates to stay informed about the project’s progress.