National carrier to sponsor world’s biggest esports event as part of ongoing support for Kingdom’s entertainment, cultural, tourism sectors RIYADH: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has been announced as a strategic sponsor and the official airline of Gamers8, the world’s biggest and most exciting esports event. Organized by the Saudi Esports Federation, the global gaming and esports festival kicked off on July 14 and will run for eight weeks in Riyadh. One of the most eagerly anticipated events of its kind, Gamers8 will host a series of elite competitive tournaments that will see the world’s top esports teams compete across five different titles for a total prize pool of $15 million. The unique immersive event will also feature a diverse range of entertainment, activities, and attractions, including music concerts and shows, all hosted in a state-of-the-art, purpose-built venue at Boulevard Riyadh City. Moataz Alandijani, of Saudia’s partnerships and sponsorships department, said: “We are proud to team up with the Saudi Esports Federation to support this innovative festival and bring the excitement of esports to Riyadh. “Our participation comes as part of Saudia’s ongoing efforts to contribute to the growth of the Kingdom’s vibrant entertainment sector and thriving tourism industry. “As the Wings of Vision 2030, we look forward to bringing the world to Saudi Arabia to experience this landmark gathering, which is sure to be an unmissable occasion for dedicated gaming fans across the globe,” he added. Ahmed Al-Bishri, the SEF’s chief operations officer, said: “We are delighted to welcome Saudia on board as a strategic partner for Gamers8, and thank them for pledging their support to the esports and gaming sector in Saudi Arabia. “Gamers8 is set to be an incredible, showpiece spectacle in Riyadh this summer, blurring the lines between the physical and virtual worlds, and providing elite esports action, concerts, shows, and activities for all ages.” Gamers8 will welcome international teams as well as qualifiers from the Saudi-based Gamers Without Borders, the world’s biggest charitable esports festival. Participating teams include Saudi Arabia’s Team Falcons, together with North America’s Clan, and Rogue, who will compete across a series of popular games including “Dota 2,” “Fortnite,” “Rocket League,” “Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege,” and “PUBG MOBILE.” The event will conclude with a special gaming and esports summit that will bring together industry leaders and experts from around the world. Saudia’s sponsorship of the Gamers8 festival is a continuation of the airline’s tradition of extending support to a range of prestigious sporting and entertainment events, including the Saudi Cup, Formula E, Saudi Seasons, and AlUla Skies Festival. The company has committed to supporting diverse programs and initiatives, while helping to achieve the Kingdom’s social and economic goals as outlined in the Vision 2030 reform plan.