Savvy Games Group, the PIF-backed entity driving Saudi Arabia’s gaming ambitions, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with immersive online platform Roblox. The agreement aims to build up the Kingdom’s game development talent pool by leveraging Roblox’s platform and educational tools for local creators.
Quick Facts
- MoU signed between Savvy and Roblox.
- Focus on building local developer talent.
- Includes educational programs for K-12 students.
Building a Local Roblox Hub
As part of the deal, Savvy will assist Roblox in establishing a physical operational presence in Saudi Arabia. This move will bring Roblox’s Developer Relations team into the country, providing Saudi-based game developers and studios with direct access to training, technical support, and community-building resources.
The partnership will also utilize the Roblox Creator Hub to give local creators online learning materials, upskilling workshops, and tailored competitions designed to grow their expertise on the platform.
From Classrooms to Creation
A significant part of the collaboration is focused on education. Savvy and Roblox plan to work with schools, creators, and parents, integrating with Savvy’s existing partnership with the Saudi Ministry of Education.
This initiative includes direct support for Saudi developers to create playable games based on winning concepts from a nationwide competition involving over 700,000 high school students. The two companies will also work with the Ministry to co-develop country-specific materials on online safety, parental controls, and digital literacy.
“Saudi Arabia’s games sector continues to grow at pace, alongside rising interest in game development as a career path and an avenue for entrepreneurship,” said Brian Ward, CEO of Savvy. “We are pleased to partner with Roblox to encourage more Saudi students to utilize its game development tools, fostering creativity and equipping emerging talent with the resources and support to help succeed in this rapidly evolving industry.”
Dave Baszucki, Co-Founder and CEO of Roblox, commented, “Today’s announcement with Savvy Games will help realize that vision for creators across Saudi Arabia and align with the growth of the Kingdom’s creator ecosystem under Vision 2030. We firmly believe that investing in high-quality, educational opportunities for the next generation of Saudis will contribute to the Kingdom’s rapidly growing digital economy.”
The partnership aligns directly with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and the National Gaming and Esports Strategy, which aim to establish the Kingdom as a global gaming hub by fostering local talent.
About Savvy Games Group
Savvy Games Group was formed with a mission to drive long-term growth and innovation in the games and esports industry. Backed by its shareholder, the Public Investment Fund, Savvy deploys capital over long-term horizons through acquisitions, investments, and business ventures. As Saudi Arabia’s National Champion for Games and Esports, Savvy is focused on developing the sector’s domestic ecosystem.
About Roblox
Roblox is an immersive gaming and creation platform that offers people millions of ways to be together, inviting its community to explore, create, and share endless unique experiences. Roblox’s vision is to reimagine the way people come together—in a world that’s safe, civil, and optimistic.
Source: Zawya
