The Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) is back for its fourth edition, promising a bigger and more exciting celebration of gaming culture than ever before. Taking place from April 25 to May 11, 2025, DEF will transform Dubai into a global gaming hub, attracting pro-gamers, enthusiasts, industry professionals, and families alike.
DEF 2025 will feature a diverse program of events, including:
- GameExpo 2025: This massive gaming expo will take over the Dubai World Trade Centre from May 9-11, offering eight dedicated zones with experiences ranging from esports tournaments and VR encounters to retro arcade games and family-friendly activities.
- GameExpo Summit: A two-day conference (May 7-8) bringing together industry leaders to discuss the future of gaming, with a focus on AI, Web3, mobile gaming, and the growth of the MENA gaming sector.
- Play Beyond: High-energy esports competitions featuring top regional and global gamers battling for the Play Beyond trophy, along with meet-and-greet opportunities with gaming influencers.
- Dubai Cosplay Championship: A showcase of creativity and craftsmanship, with cosplayers competing for prizes and recognition.
- DEF Educational Engagement Programme: A series of events and competitions designed to engage students and educators in the world of esports and game development.
DEF 2025 builds on the success of last year’s festival, which attracted over 28,000 visitors to the GameExpo and saw participation from millions of players in regional tournaments. The festival is a key initiative in Dubai’s strategy to establish itself as a leading destination for gaming and esports, supporting the goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33.
With its expanded program, focus on innovation, and commitment to education and industry development, DEF 2025 is poised to be a landmark event in the world of gaming. Whether you’re a hardcore gamer, a casual enthusiast, or simply curious about the future of interactive entertainment, DEF has something for everyone.
