By Staff Reporter
Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025 Returns with Its Biggest Edition Yet
Dubai is set to become the epicentre of gaming and esports once again as the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025 returns for its fourth and most ambitious edition from 25 April to 11 May.
Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), the festival aims to drive digital innovation, attract investment, and reinforce Dubai’s global status as a hub for interactive entertainment.
With something for everyone—from casual players to esports professionals—this year’s DEF features a dynamic line-up of experiences. GameExpo, the flagship event from 9 to 11 May at DWTC, promises a highly immersive setup with eight themed gaming zones, competitive tournaments, and exclusive previews of next-gen tech. Family-friendly zones, retro arcades, and brand-new features like The Quest IRL Zone and Just Dance Zone add to the appeal.
The event will also see the return of fan favourites like the Dubai Cosplay Championship, Play Beyond influencer battles, and the DEF PlayStation Cup, alongside engaging educational programmes and school competitions.
For industry leaders, the GameExpo Summit (7–8 May) offers two days of high-level discussions, networking, and insights into the future of gaming, including the booming MENA market, AI, Web3, and the Metaverse.
Early bird tickets are now available, with prices starting from AED 29 for students. Exclusive hotel discounts, travel access perks, and tailored experiences like the Pro Gamer Experience make DEF 2025 a must-attend for gamers, creators, and industry insiders.
As Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of DFRE, puts it:
“This is more than a festival—it’s a catalyst for industry growth, innovation, and opportunity.”
More info and tickets at the official DEF 2025 website.
