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about def 2024
STEP INTO ADVENTURE!
19 April - 5 May 2024
Across the City
The Dubai Esports and Games Festival is more than just a series of events; it is a community brought together by a shared passion for gaming and innovation. We invite you to join the third edition of Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2024 taking place from 19 April - 5 May across Dubai! Explore the future of gaming, create lasting connections, and celebrate the esports culture.
This year’s event is the biggest yet, featuring a plethora of citywide tournaments and activities starting from 19 April until 5 May, including Education Challenges, Career Talks, Workshops and more.
At the Dubai World Trade Centre, join industry experts and discover the future of gaming at the GameExpo Summit powered by PG Connects from 1-2 May. The exclusive B2B event will include talks by 100 games industry experts and great networking opportunities.
This will be followed by the ultimate gamers event, GameExpo, taking place on 3-5 May at Dubai World Trade Centre. Unlock the latest game releases, upgrade your gaming gear and transform into your favourite character with Cosplay competitions. Watch your favourite gaming pros live as they compete at Play Beyond on 4-5 May.
Gather your squad, and let's make gaming history together at DEF!
Dive into an unparalleled gaming universe at DEF 2024's GameExpo event for 3 days only!
A celebration of gaming culture, enthusiasts of all ages and genres can immerse themselves in the heart of the action where competition ignites excitement. Get ready to unlock the latest game releases, play retro games, upgrade your gaming gear and transform into your favourite character at the cosplay competitions. Plus watch gaming pros battle it out live as they compete at Play Beyond on 4-5 May.
Recharge at the Food & Beverage zone offering a variety of food and casual eats.
Join us for an unforgettable experience, get your game on at GameExpo this DEF.
Be a part of the biggest B2B gaming event in the region. Join industry experts and discover the future of gaming at this exclusive event.
Discuss AI, Web3, Metaverse, and MENA's growth, alongside the latest in development and monetisation.
This premier event is a melting pot for those interested in expanding their networks, meeting experts, and exploring advances in esports and indie gaming.
Don't miss the MENA region's top business gathering for game developers, investors, and industry pioneers at this year's DEF.
This DEF, students can take part in Educational events, expert talks, exciting tournaments and more throughout the festival period.
Pre-event qualifying School and University students will battle it out in tournaments across popular titles like Rocket League, Fortnite, Valorant, and FC24, alongside the Microsoft MakeCode Competition.
Where fun meets learning, the comprehensive DEF Academy program is here to inspire and support the next generation of local talent.
Discover citywide activities and grab some great offers online and at your favourite gaming stores across Dubai during the DEF period. Power up your gear this DEF!
Experience the future of gaming at the exclusive Gaming Matters Academy taking place at Museum of the Future on 29 April. This free to attend event is designed to upskill the next-generation of gaming industry leaders. Learn more on www.gamingmattersdxb.com
Be a regional tournament champion! DEF is partnering with RIOT Games to create the Master Cup 2024 which will host local tournaments at eight different cafes across Dubai from 16 March to 7 April, with a total prize pool of AED 15,000.
The GameCentric Ramadan League supported by DEF will take place during the holy month hosting local and regional tournaments with different games including Fortnite, PUBG Mobile, League of Legends and Brawl Stars.
The GG League will also take place during Ramadan from 8 March to 7 April with 4 weekly tournaments featuring 32 teams per tournament from across the GCC, India and Pakistan. From 19-25 April Yalla Ludo is also hosting exclusive online tournaments with a Dubai based theme.
1-2 May
Dubai World Trade
Centre, Zabeel Hall 4
3-5 May
Dubai World Trade
Centre, Zabeel Halls 5-6
Founded in 2022, the Dubai Esports and Games Festival celebrates all things gaming. By combining the best in competitive video games with electrifying experiences and next-gen talent, the annual festival aims to become a regular fixture in the international circuit.
As a future-first, innovative city, Dubai is perfectly poised to be the Middle East and North Africa’s leading esports and gaming hub. After all, the city pioneered the region’s first large-scale gaming competition back in 2018, and regularly invests in technology and infrastructure to spur a thriving, connected community where everyone is welcome.
Following the phenomenal success of DEF 2023, which attracted over 26,000 visitors and 75,000 gaming enthusiasts, this year's festival is poised to deliver an even more unforgettable adventure over 17 days with events happening across the city.
Join us at a new location in Dubai World Trade Centre at the GameExpo Summit Powered by PG Connects from 1-2 May and at the GameExpo from 3-5 May.
Don’t miss a new and exciting Family Zone featuring family-friendly brands, games and arcades at the GameExpo from 3-5 May.
During GameExpo from 3-5 May, you'll find a wide range of electronic vendors, from big-name brands to small independent shops, all showcasing their latest products. Whether you're looking for the newest games or the most powerful hardware, Electric Avenue has something for everyone. It's a place where technology enthusiasts can explore the latest in gaming, gadgets, and more. Come and see what's on offer at Electric Avenue, where the world of tech comes to life.
