Dubai is ready to dominate the gaming world once again as the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025 makes its much-anticipated return from 25 April to 11 May. Now in its fourth year, the festival promises an electrifying mix of global esports tournaments, immersive experiences, and tech innovation. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), DEF supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, reinforcing the city’s global status as a business, tourism, and digital entertainment hub.
GameExpo: The Heart of DEF 2025
DEF’s flagship event, GameExpo, returns from 9 to 11 May at Dubai World Trade Centre’s Zabeel Halls 2 and 3, bringing fans closer to top titles, influencers, and next-gen tech. Explore eight themed zones including retro arcades, Sim Racing, Web3 Gaming, and the fan-favorite Emirates NBD Family Zone.
New this year are The Quest: The New IRL Zone and the Just Dance Zone, offering real-life challenges, competitions, and live dance-offs in partnership with Ubisoft. Gaming heroes battle it out in League of Legends, FC25, and PUBG Mobile tournaments in the Main Arena, while The Narrows marketplace and talabat F&B Zones add shopping and dining to the mix.
Play Beyond: Where Creators Take Center Stage
On 10–11 May, Play Beyond returns, spotlighting top influencers like Abo Flah in thrilling creator battles and fan interactions. Expect intense gameplay, exclusive meet-and-greets, and unforgettable showdowns.
Cosplay Championship: Art Meets Fandom
On 11 May, the Dubai Cosplay Championship invites fans to transform into their favorite characters for a shot at AED 30,000 in prizes. The live runway and catwalks offer fans and creators a vibrant, interactive experience. Cosplayers must register by 6 May.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The DEF Educational Engagement Programme brings students on 8 May for a full day of competitions, challenges, and workshops. From the Minecraft Education Challenge to the Power Up Parade, students explore esports careers with Microsoft and Unreal Engine experts. Mobile gaming truck Game Quest Express and Cool Career Talks provide engaging insights and real-world inspiration.
GameExpo Summit: Industry Meets Innovation
From 7–8 May, the GameExpo Summit, powered by Pocket Gamer Connects, will host over 100 speakers covering topics from AI and Metaverse to Web3 and regional trends. Business matchmaking, networking, and the MENA Games Awards highlight Dubai’s growing gaming ecosystem.
Epic Tournaments and Exclusive Deals
Gamers can enter the DEF PlayStation Cup, with regional qualifiers running until 9 April and finals at GameExpo for a shot at $10,000. The Yalla Ludo Challenge runs from 29 April to 6 May, offering in-game rewards and leaderboard prizes.
Visitors can also enjoy 25% off select Rove Hotels when booking before 8 May using code Esports.
Easy Access for All
The Dubai World Trade Centre is easily reachable via Dubai Metro, RTA buses, and ample parking for drivers. GameExpo visitors get an AED 5 discount on parking, plus EV charging and valet services.
Don’t Miss DEF 2025
With an unbeatable mix of esports, innovation, and entertainment, Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 is a must for gamers, families, and industry leaders alike. Early bird tickets are now on sale via Platinumlist, starting at just AED 29 for students and AED 44 for adults.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “The Dubai Esports and Gaming Festival is more than a citywide celebration; it is a catalyst for the gaming industry in the region and beyond. With an exciting calendar of events spanning premier esports tournaments and engaging interactive showcases, we are once again curating a dynamic programme that fosters digital innovation, nurtures homegrown talent, and encourages entrepreneurial growth. This aligns perfectly with Dubai’s vision for a thriving knowledge economy, supporting SMEs, and creating new career opportunities in the gaming and esports sector.”
