Calling all gamers, families and joystick junkies, GameExpo is back in Dubai. This year, it’s going full power-up mode! From May 9th to 11th, the Dubai World Trade Centre will transform into a pixel-packed paradise, welcoming everyone from esports pros to nostalgic arcade lovers.
The Epic 2025 GameExpo Is Back And Bigger Than Ever
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This year’s GameExpo is part of the fourth edition of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025, and it’s levelling up hard. With nine immersive gaming zones, including three brand-new ones, expect a non-stop joyride across esports, VR, retro arcades, Web3 gaming, and simulation racing.
Say hello to the Amazon Joy Quiz zone, built for interactive fun beyond just screens, and an expanded Just Dance arena where you can shake a leg and score points doing it. Meanwhile, the Cosplay Championship is back with a Dh30,000 prize pool and more glitter, wigs, and wizardry than a Comic-Con afterparty.
Expect over 120 playable titles from top-tier publishers, plus esports tournaments with a jaw-dropping prize pool of Dh600,000. Oh, and if you fancy yourself a future star, there are mini-competitions across every zone.
It’s Not Just For Gamers
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Not into esports? No worries. GameExpo is playing to all crowds this year. There are family-friendly areas, beauty activations by Benefit Cosmetics, grooming pop-ups by Gillette, and a collectables marketplace packed with limited-edition merch.
The food scene? Equally game-worthy. Grab a juicy bite at Alien Burger, refuel with Coffee Matters, or treat the kids to Charkly between boss battles. It’s a lifestyle-meets-gaming setup, minus the lag.
Students, Summits & Smarts
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On Thursday, students got early access through school trips, soaking up inspiration through workshops, talks, and career insights. A fresh education programme is also in place, designed to help kids and teens see the future of gaming beyond the console, think AI, coding, game design, and esports careers.
Also on Thursday, the GameExpo Summit returned with 100+ industry experts, deep-diving into the next big things in AI, mobile gaming, Web3, and beyond. The MENA Games Awards will also spotlight local talent shaping the region’s digital future.
Also Read: PAC-MAN Comes Alive In Dubai & You Can Join The Game For Just AED 160!
Final Word
Whether you’re a Fortnite fanatic, a retro Mario nostalgist, or just looking for a fun weekend with the family, GameExpo 2025 is your all-access pass to gaming greatness. Grab your controllers, dress up, dance off, and dive in. Dubai’s biggest gaming festival is here and it’s unmissable. Available only on Platinumlist.
Where: Dubai World Trade Centre, Zabeel Halls 2 & 3
When: May 9th –11th, 2 pm –10 pm (Fri), 2 pm –11 pm (Sat–Sun)
Cost:
- Single-day pass: Dh39 (students), Dh69 (adults)
- Three-day pass: Dh69 (students), Dh139 (adults)
- Family packs: From Dh149 (1-day), Dh299 (3-day)
- Pro Gamer tickets: From Dh199, includes influencer meet-and-greets
Cover Image Courtesy: Dubai Esports Festival/Website
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