Kazakhstan and Saudi Arabia are strengthening their esports alliance as Astana prepares to host two of the biggest international gaming events in the coming years, DKNews.kz reports.
The growing partnership signals that esports is becoming more than just entertainment — it is increasingly shaping international cooperation, talent development and digital economies.
During a meeting in Riyadh, Kazakhstan's Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Madiyar Menilbekov met with Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan Al Saud, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation, to discuss expanding cooperation between the two countries.
Focus on players, teams and expertise
The talks centered on closer collaboration between the Qazaq Esports Federation and the Saudi Esports Federation.
Both sides explored opportunities to strengthen national team training, exchange professional expertise and develop long-term partnerships that could benefit players, coaches and the wider esports ecosystem.
The meeting highlighted the growing role of esports as a strategic industry attracting investment and international attention.
Astana prepares for Games of the Future
Ambassador Menilbekov also briefed the Saudi side on preparations for the Games of the Future 2026, which will take place in Astana from July 29 to August 9.
The international phygital tournament will bring together athletes competing in disciplines that combine traditional sports with digital gaming, placing Kazakhstan at the center of one of the fastest-growing sectors in global sport.
Prince Faisal confirmed that the Saudi Esports Federation will send an official delegation to Astana for the competition.
Looking ahead to 2027
The Saudi official praised the strong relationship already established between the esports organizations of the two countries and expressed confidence that cooperation will continue to expand.
"The World Esports Championship 2027, to be held in the capital of Kazakhstan next year, will be a major milestone for the global esports community," Prince Faisal said.
A growing regional esports powerhouse
Saudi Arabia has become one of the world's largest investors in esports, while Kazakhstan is rapidly positioning itself as a regional hub for international gaming competitions.
With major global tournaments arriving in Astana and cooperation between the two federations gaining momentum, both countries are betting that esports will become a new platform for technological innovation, youth engagement and international partnerships.
