Saudi Esports Federation Opens Legacy Museum at SEF Arena
The museum details the federation's achievements since its establishment in October 2017.
The Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) has opened its Legacy Museum at the SEF Arena in Boulevard Riyadh City. The museum details the federation's achievements since its establishment in October 2017 and highlights Saudi Arabia’s role in the global gaming and esports industry.[1]
The museum features a section called ‘Moments in Saudi Arabian Esports,’ including images of Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman announcing the Esports World Cup at The New Global Sport Conference in October 2023. It also shows the Crown Prince’s remarks on the importance of gaming and esports in Saudi Arabia.
Another section, ‘Kingdom Champions,’ highlights Saudi esports figures who have gained international recognition, including Mosaad Al Dossary with the FIFAe World Cup 2018 trophy, the Saudi national team’s Overwatch World Cup win in 2023, and the Saudi women’s team’s Valorant success at the Afro-Arab Esports League.
The museum includes a ‘Heroes’ zone, a ‘Center of the Game’ video display, and an interactive ‘Experience the Moment’ area. It is open daily from 6 pm until Boulevard Riyadh City’s closing time, with free entry.
The museum’s opening coincides with the Esports World Cup at Boulevard Riyadh City, which runs until August 25th. The event features a $60 million prize pool and includes over 1,500 players from more than 60 countries. Week three includes competitions in Dota2 Riyadh Masters, Counter-Strike 2, and PUBG Mobile.
Recently, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) revealed a collaboration with Saudi Arabia's National Olympic Committee (NOC) for the first-ever Olympic Esports Games. The Olympic Esports Games will be formally introduced at the upcoming IOC Session, shortly before the 2024 Paris Olympics.
Driven by Vision 2030, Saudi is attracting athletes, global championships, and investment in its sports industry. This includes everything from investing and hosting major sporting events and purchasing football clubs in Europe to developing sporting infrastructure in the kingdom. Through its efforts, it aims to promote sports, enhance international engagement, boost tourism, and create employment opportunities for Saudis.