We are dedicated to nurturing Dubai's growing gaming ecosystem by empowering the next generation of gaming industry experts. Calling all students to join an exciting educational programme designed to raise awareness about the dynamic world of esports and gaming.

At DEF 2025, students can compete in thrilling esports tournaments like the Minecraft Education Challenge, ENBD Fortnite Quest representing their schools for a chance to win incredible prizes and the GameoOn Hackathon with HP Gaming Garage. Finalists will showcase their skills on the GameExpo stage during the Grand Finals on 8 May 2025, creating unforgettable memories for participants and their classmates.

Register your school now to be part of the educational initiatives starting in January 2025, including FREE student visits to GameExpo on 8 May 2025. Last year, over 200 schools took the opportunity to plan class trips, giving students hands-on access to the exhibition, school tournaments, and unique educational experiences.

Don’t miss out—join us at DEF 2025 for an unforgettable journey into the world of gaming and esports!

Schools
GameQuest Express

MINECRAFT EDUCATION CHALLENGE

Join the Thrill of the Minecraft Competition!

Step into an exciting Dubai-themed virtual world with our Minecraft competition, open to students aged 7–12 across the MENA region. Participants will compete in a series of time based challenges, progressing through elimination rounds to determine the finalists. The top players will face off in an epic Grand Final, with champions crowned on stage at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

To support young gamers on this thrilling journey, we’ll provide online assistance and dedicated teacher support packs.

Schools are encouraged to nominate a DEF representative to register their teams online for the tournament. Parents interested in their child’s participation should connect with their school’s Principal and students can also register themselves, with their teacher's consent. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to be part of the excitement!

ENDB FORTNITE QUEST

Embark on an epic adventure with the ENBD Fortnite Quest, a thrilling competition that combines gaming excitement with financial literacy. Players will navigate a custom Emirates NBD Dubai Fortnite and create a map, gathering gold coins while learning valuable lessons about investment and money management. Open to students age 12-17 across the region, this unique quest challenges participants to strategize, compete and showcase their gaming skills. The top players will advance to the Grand Finals at GameExpo 2025 for a chance to win amazing prizes. Gear up for a one-of-a-kind gaming experience with the ENBD Fortnite Quest!

DEF ESPORTS TOURNAMENTS

Get ready to showcase your skills in the DEF Esports Tournaments, the ultimate battleground for gamers during Ramadan 2025. Compete online or at Dubai’s top gaming cafes for a chance to secure your spot in the epic finals at GameExpo 2025.

This is your moment to rise to the challenge and take the stage in front of a live audience, proving you’ve got what it takes to be the best. Stay tuned for more details and prepare for glory!

GameOn HP

GameOn hackathon with HP Gaming Garage

Unleash your creativity and problem-solving skills at the HP GameOn hackathon, a thrilling game development competition designed to challenge and inspire. Running in the lead-up to DEF 2025, this hackathon invites students and tech enthusiasts aged 13 - 17 to tackle real-world gaming and technology challenges. With expert mentorship, cutting-edge tools and a platform to showcase your innovations, the HP GameOn Hackathon is your chance to make an impact. The most innovative games will be celebrated on the main stage at GameExpo 2025. Are you ready to innovate, collaborate and lead the future of gaming? Enrol into a HP Gaming Garage course today to take the first step towards qualifying for the hackathon.

GAMEQUEST EXPRESS

A new feature this year is the GameQuest Express offering a range of engaging activities for students age 8+.

This unique Gaming Truck features multiple gaming zones such as PS5, VR and PC challenges.

Slots are limited for schools to host the GameQuest Express which will be touring Dubai Schools from January owards, in the build up to DEF 2025.

DEF 2025: A Unique Experience for Students Aged 7 and Above!

DEF 2025 invites students and teachers to dive into the exciting world of gaming and esports like never before. All pre-registered schools can attend the festival at Dubai World Trade Centre on the 8 May 2025, completely free of charge!

This is more than just an event—it’s an immersive learning adventure. Students will:

- Explore the latest futuristic and innovative technologies.
- Cheer on their peers during the grand finals.
- Engage in fun, hands-on activities and discover vendor offerings.
- Meet industry experts to discuss exciting career paths.
- Gain valuable insights into the gaming and esports ecosystem.

With live on-stage battles, cutting-edge tech showcases and an in-depth look at the history of gaming, DEF 2025 offers a 360-degree experience that’s both educational and inspiring. Don’t miss this one-of-a-kind opportunity to empower and excite the next generation!