Gamers8 in Riyadh guide: Controllers, celebrities and concerts 

Inside the world’s biggest esports festival. 

Let the games begin. Gamers8 is the world’s largest e-sports tournament. The festival takes gaming to the next level, as there are more than thousands of activities and attractions. We’re talking tournaments with a $45 million prize and celebrity concerts, from Rabeh Saqer to R3hab.  

Now in its second edition, Gamers8 kicks off from 6 July and runs to 31 August – that’s almost nine weeks of glorious gaming. The one-of-a-kind event deserves a one-of-a-kind venue, so it is expected to take place in the custom-built NXT LVL Arena in Riyadh Boulevard City. On your marks, get set, play. 

The history of Gamers8

Saudi Arabia is home to 23.5 million gamers, which is a mind blowing 76 per cent of the population. Organised by the Saudi Esports Federation, Gamers8 aims to tap into the market, and create an accessible yet professional environment. The festival not only showcases how gaming can add to the economy, but how it can be a source of fun. The event hosts professional e-sports competitions, entertainment shows, and music performances, and brings together gaming and e-sports leaders from across the world. 

Gamers8 zones

Visitors can join Gamers8 as a gamer or spectator. Even if you just want to watch and soak up the atmosphere, you can visit one of the dedicated zones. Be warned: some zones are ticketed, have different opening times, and age restrictions. 

Gamers8 is welcoming international as well as local gamers, from Falcons HQ to Power Villa. The teams will be battling it out across games. Plus, there will be the chance for the public to meet the teams and learn gaming tips. 

Japanophiles will love the Jabamura zone – you can dress up in traditional clothes, join an origami class and taste traditional food. The Barbie zone is inspired by the world-famous doll, and introduces children to different professions. 

If you’re after nostalgia, head to the Kids Dome. Barbie and Pac-Man are just some of the classic gaming characters you’ll find in this zone. Great for families, there are interactive games and experiences, which have a cross generational appeal. 

Saudi Arabia regularly hosts F1 events, and the Aramco Virtual may be the closest you’ll get to being in the driving seat. This zone brings to life the history of the motorsport, as you can slip on a VR headset and start your engine. 

Other zones are inspired by Angry Birds, Pac-Man, Tetris, Transformers and Uno. Plus, every Friday at 9.30pm, there is an Insta-worthy drone show.

Gamers8 concerts

Just when we thought we couldn’t get any more excited about Gamers8, it also hosts cool concerts. The line-up includes Alan Walker, Imagine Dragons, Macklemore, Metro Boomin, R3hb and Vinyl Mode – and more names are expected to be added. 

Catch Alan Walker, Rabeh Saqer and Vinyl Mode on 7 July, R3hb and Macklemore on 14 July, Metro Boomin on 21 July, and Imagine Dragons on 28 July. 

Alan Walker hails from Bergen, Norway. He is a producer and DJ. On YouTube, he has more than 43.7 million subscribers, and is one of the most viewed content creators in Norway. Metro Boomin is from Missouri, United States. He is a producer and DJ, and mixes trap with hip-hop. He has collaborated with 21 Savage, Drake, Kanye West, The Weeknd and Travis Scott. 

American rapper Macklemore is from Seattle, United States and started his career in 2000. He first worked with the producer Ryan Lewis, and is famous for the songs Can’t Hold Us, Glorious and Thrift Shop. R3hb is a Dutch Moroccan producer and DJ. He is known for his signature sound, which mixes electro, dance and house. His hit songs include All Around the World, Rock My Body and Waterfall. 

It’s not just about international acts, as Saudi artist Rabeh Saqer will perform. We’re hoping he performs his songs from Ana Ahebbak to Latemanan. Plus, Vinyl Mode – real name Mohanned Nassar – was born in Saudi Arabia, and is joining the line-up. He started his career in Jeddah’s underground dance scene. The DJ has entertained crowds across the world, from Greece to Germany.

Games and gigs – this is the power up we need. 

GO: Visit https://gamers8.gg/ar/festival for more information.