The Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) is set to host its first Education & Gaming Summit on June 4, an initiative designed to connect students and graduates with career opportunities in the region’s rapidly expanding gaming sector. Organized by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the free-to-attend event at the Dubai World Trade Centre aims to create direct pathways for young talent into the industry.
Quick Facts
- Inaugural Education & Gaming Summit on June 4.
- Free registration for UAE students aged 16+.
- Direct access to recruiters and industry leaders.
Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Industry
The summit is structured to provide students with practical exposure to the gaming world. A core feature is the “Meet and Match” networking space, where attendees can connect with industry professionals, recruiters, and decision-makers.
Leading Dubai universities with gaming-related programs will also be present, offering students a direct line to explore academic pathways and get clear guidance on their educational next steps. The event will also provide hands-on career support, including a CV clinic and information on internships, to help participants understand the technical and creative skills needed to succeed.
Insights from Global and Regional Gaming Giants
A series of workshops and panel discussions will feature experts from major local and global companies, including DMCC, Pixel Perfect MENA, Bandai Namco, Tencent’s Level Infinite, and TikTok LIVE. These sessions will cover a range of topics, from the use of AI in game development to building a career in esports.
Key panel discussions include “Breaking Into the Gaming Industry in Dubai,” which will explore the emirate’s growing ecosystem, and “Universities & Esports,” focusing on how academic institutions are creating programs to support the industry.
Muna Al Falasi, Director of Esports and Games Strategy at DFRE, commented, “The launch of the first DEF Education & Gaming Summit marks a strategic step forward for Dubai Esports & Games Festival, reinforcing our commitment to developing future talent and accelerating industry growth.”
She added, “The summit provides a high-impact platform for students to engage directly with industry leaders, explore real career opportunities, and understand how to succeed in this rapidly evolving sector.”
Powering Dubai’s D33 Gaming Ambitions
This initiative directly supports the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which outlines the city’s goal to become a global hub for gaming innovation and investment. By fostering a new generation of talent, the summit plays a crucial role in building the skilled workforce needed to sustain the industry’s growth in the emirate.
The Education & Gaming Summit is a key component of the wider Dubai Esports & Games Festival, which runs from May 22 to June 7, 2026.
About Dubai Esports & Games Festival
Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), a part of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), the Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF 2026) takes place from 22 May to 7 June 2026. Launched in 2022, the annual festival aims to set and influence trends across the global and regional gaming industry, while bolstering Dubai’s position as a global hub for esports and interactive, tech-driven entertainment. DEF features a diverse mix of experiences, including flagship gaming events, esports tournaments, educational initiatives, and industry-led platforms that connect communities, talent, and businesses from around the world.
Source: Zawya
