Abu Dhabi, UAE – The Global Games Show 2025 returns on 10–11 December 2025 at Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi, co-hosted with Times of Games and presented by VAP Group. Now in its landmark second edition, the event is set to bring together the most influential figures from the gaming, esports, and metaverse sectors to explore the technologies shaping the next generation of interactive entertainment.
Key points to remember
- Dates: 10–11 December 2025
- Venue: Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi
- Organizers: VAP Group & Times of Games
- Main Themes: AI in game design, esports growth, gaming engines, and metaverse evolution
- Speakers: Executives from The Sandbox, Animoca Brands, Upland, Ambrus Studio, and Esports & Gaming Association UAE
Abu Dhabi: The new hub of Global Gaming
Supported by the Abu Dhabi Convention & Exhibition Bureau, the Global Games Show 2025 strengthens the UAE’s position as a key destination for gaming and esports in the Middle East. With a $1.5 billion gaming economy and initiatives such as AD Gaming and twofour54, Abu Dhabi is becoming a global hub for studios, developers, and esports organizations. The Space42 Arena, a futuristic venue designed for next-gen tech showcases, offers an immersive backdrop for a gathering that highlights innovation and creativity.
Global thought leaders take the stage
The 2025 edition features a stellar lineup of world-renowned industry leaders and innovators:
Dirk Lueth, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Upland, known for pioneering metaverse-driven digital economies.
Sébastien Borget, Co-Founder & COO of The Sandbox, a leading voice in blockchain gaming and open metaverse experiences.
Mohammed Yaseen, Founder of the Esports & Gaming Association UAE, promoting grassroots esports growth across the region.
Johnson Yeh, Founder & CEO of Ambrus Studio and former MD of Riot Games Greater China, expert in esports expansion and Web3 gaming.
Yat Siu, Co-Founder of Animoca Brands, a global advocate for digital property rights and decentralized gaming.
Highlights and key discussions
Over two days, participants can expect dynamic panel discussions, live demos, and networking opportunities with leading developers, investors, and creators. The agenda includes:
Beyond the Game: How Esports Will Define Abu Dhabi’s Tech & Game Economy
The Future of Gaming Engines: Unreal Engine 6 and Beyond
AI-Generated Game Design: Is Machine Creativity Taking Over?
The Metaverse Effect: How Virtual Worlds Are Transforming Multiplayer Experiences
The event will explore how technology continues to redefine storytelling, gameplay, and player interaction—offering insights into the next frontier of digital entertainment.
A Global platform for innovation and collaboration
More than a traditional expo, the Global Games Show is a global meeting point where creativity, technology, and culture intersect. It brings together developers, studios, investors, and gaming communities to shape the future of interactive entertainment and foster inclusive collaboration. Early-bird tickets are available for a limited time on the official website: globalgamesshow.com.
About the Global Games Show
Organized by VAP Group, the Global Games Show is part of a series of flagship global events including the Global AI Show and Global Blockchain Show. Its mission is to push the boundaries of gaming innovation, celebrate community, and champion an inclusive digital future where play and progress go hand in hand.
Event Details:
- Venue: Space42 Arena, Abu Dhabi
- Dates: 10–11 December 2025
- Official Partner: Times of Games
- Website: globalgamesshow.com
About VAP Group
VAP Group is a global leader in AI, blockchain, and gaming consulting. For over 12 years, the company has delivered high-impact events, strategic PR, and marketing campaigns that connect innovators across emerging technologies. With offices in the UAE, UK, India, and Hong Kong, and a team of 170+ experts, VAP Group continues to drive transformation across Web3, AI, and gaming ecosystems.
