Gaming in the Middle East: My Take on Abu Dhabi’s Big Bet

Written by Michail Katkoff , founder of Deconstructor of Fun, a games industry veteran of 15 years, and a frequent visitor of UAE since 2010. When you think of gaming hubs, Abu Dhabi isn't the first place that comes to mind. Like many battle-scarred industry veterans, my mental map of gaming ecosystems was firmly anchored around the usual suspects: Helsinki, Montreal, Istanbul, Seoul, Barcelona, and a handful of other established powerhouses.

My take on the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is based on visiting the country regularly since 2010.        sdfds I recognize the UAE comes with its share of preconceptions. My wife resisted visiting for years until her friend relocated there.

After one reluctant visit, we now return annually. I firmly believe in forming opinions based on personal experience rather than assumptions. But enough of that.

Abu Dhabi isn’t a perfect city. Nor am I writing a tourism promo. I’m here to break down how Abu Dhabi is positioning itself as gaming's next frontier, why it might actually work, and what’s there for you.

Why I Like Abu Dhabi I’ve been coming to the UAE, first alone, then with a partner and finally now, with a growing family - and frankly enjoyed it more and more every time. My perspective on Abu Dhabi comes from a unique vantage point: born in the USSR, raised in Finland, educated in the UK, and seasoned in the US tech industry. As a gaming investor and entrepreneur – and more importantly, as a family man – I evaluate cities through multiple lenses.

1. Safe  Despite its 1 million residents, the city records fewer annual crimes than New York sees in a day. This remarkable safety isn't just statistics – it's visible in daily life, where cyclists leave bikes unlocked at malls and diners step away from belongings in food courts.

As a frequent traveler with two daughters, I find it one of the rare places, like Singapore, where children can explore without constant supervision. 2. Family Friendly Abu Dhabi offers world-class education, from kindergarten through university, complemented by excellent healthcare.

As a father, while I value academic excellence, the city's unparalleled school safety – free from concerns about drugs or weapons – gives me genuine peace of mind. While Abu Dhabi's family-first atmosphere might not attract young singles, it's a powerful draw for senior professionals with children. And for those seeking nightlife, Dubai's vibrant scene is just an hour away.

3.   With expatriates comprising 90% of the UAE's population, the social landscape is uniquely welcoming. English serves as the common language, and without entrenched social circles, newcomers readily find their community.