Ammon News - Jordan’s video game industry is emerging as a significant economic force, with industry insiders touting its potential to drive growth, generate jobs, and attract international investment.
As the sector evolves, it’s not just about coding; it encompasses a spectrum of roles, from design and development to marketing and digital artistry. This growth aligns with King Abdullah II’s vision of positioning Jordan as a hub for digital innovation.
The upcoming "Jordan Gaming Summit", organized by the Jordan Gaming Lab under the King Abdullah II Fund for Development, will kick off on Saturday at the King Hussein Bin Talal Convention Center on the Dead Sea. This event aims to bring global industry leaders to Jordan, underscoring the country’s potential as a destination for game development talent and investment.
Sami Smeirat, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, highlighted the government’s commitment to nurturing the video game sector as part of Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision.
"This industry holds the key to establishing Jordan as a top-tier player in regional and global gaming markets," said Smeirat. With the launch of Jordan’s National Strategy for Games and Esports in October 2023, the government aims to create a dynamic environment that fosters innovation, supports talent, and provides a safe space for players and developers alike.
Central to this strategy is the establishment of the Esports Dome at the King Hussein Business Park in Amman, the first of four planned regional hubs in Irbid, Zarqa, and Aqaba. These hubs, complemented by satellite centers, aim to expand access to esports nationwide and make Jordan a regional esports center.
Industry leaders such as Nour Khrais, CEO of Maysalward, one of Jordan’s pioneering mobile game development studios, see vast economic potential. "Gaming offers diverse career opportunities from core roles in programming and game design to support functions like content creation and cybersecurity," Khrais said.
"With targeted investment and the right ecosystem, Jordan’s studios could attract foreign direct investment, foster innovation, and make an enduring impact on the economy."
Khrais noted that Jordan’s strategic location positions it as a bridge for global companies seeking to expand into the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) markets.
Local developers have the advantage of understanding regional cultural nuances, making them ideal partners for adapting global titles for MENA audiences a move that could boost Jordan’s export revenue.
Hussam Hamo, CEO of Tamatem Games, a leading Arabic mobile games publisher, pointed out the opportunities beyond development. "The industry has grown beyond just coding now we’re seeing demand in graphic design, audio engineering, animation, and social media marketing," Hamo explained.
Jordanian studios can create culturally relevant games, localize international hits, and leverage influencer marketing to reach Arabic-speaking audiences, reinforcing Jordan’s position as a leader in Arabic-language games.
To support further expansion, Hamo suggested initiatives such as national game development competitions, university-backed game design programs, and exchange opportunities with international studios to build local expertise.
He advocated for a national fund to help young developers with mentorship, training, and seed funding.
Rami Shaheen, an advisor specializing in AI, highlighted the transformative effect gaming has on Jordan’s technology landscape. "The video game industry is at the forefront of digital transformation, bridging entertainment with cutting-edge tech like AI, VR, and advanced graphics," he said.
With this growth, Jordan could attract tech tourists and international esports events, enhancing its status as a digital innovation hub.
By embedding elements of Jordanian culture and heritage within game narratives, the industry can also promote tourism and foster global appreciation for the country’s rich history.
Collaborative ventures with global developers could also enable cultural exchanges and new storytelling opportunities that resonate on an international level.
As Jordan’s video game industry continues to scale, it holds the promise of being a cornerstone of the country’s economic future. With robust government support, an influx of private investment, and local talent development, Jordan is well-positioned to become a leader in the MENA gaming market and a valuable player on the world stage.
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