US' Gosu Academy Expands to UAE

US-based Gosu Academy, an esports coaching and education platform, has announced its expansion into the UAE. This move comes as the gaming industry in Dubai is expected to contribute over $1 billion to the economy by 2033, with 30,000 jobs projected to be created.

The academy, which started in the US and Europe and expanded to the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, aims to tap into the UAE's growing gaming community and esports initiatives.

Gosu Academy provides personalized coaching, online sessions, and a flexible learning platform for individual gamers, while also partnering with esports organizations, schools, and federations to develop pro players and create career opportunities in the gaming industry. Since its founding in 2021 by Braeden Plein and F. Javier Bernal, the academy has trained over 14,000 students globally.

The UAE government has set its sights on making Dubai a top global gaming hub, aiming to rank among the top 10 cities for game companies by 2033. The Dubai Program for Gaming 2033 (DPG33), approved last year by His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai, Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of Dubai Future Foundation (DFF), seeks to create 30,000 jobs and build a $1 billion industry by 2033.

The program focuses on developing talent, content, and technology, aligning with the UAE’s digital economy strategy and its recently launched AI Charter. Managed by the DFF, the program includes investments, business support, and educational initiatives to help drive the gaming sector forward.

Part of the plan involves building a platform in Dubai that connects digital content creators with training and job opportunities, in partnership with international companies and educational institutions. The program will also support entrepreneurs and startups, particularly those involved in creative industries.