The WN Conference Abu Dhabi '25 is happening very soon—on February 11-12
In less than a month, the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will host a conference for game developers and publishers organized by WN Media Group. Speakers from Ubisoft, Google, MY.GAMES, Sandsoft Games, Razer, Holodeck Ventures, and many other companies have confirmed their participation.
About the Region
Let's start with why the organizers were attracted to the Emirates.
The UAE, along with Egypt and Saudi Arabia, is part of the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) gaming market, whose combined revenue is projected by Niko Partners to reach $2.1 billion by the end of 2024.
Equally important, the region's gaming market is one of the fastest-growing in the world. Its compound annual growth rate over the next five years is expected to be 8.3%. By the end of 2028, its revenue could grow to $2.9 billion.
The capital of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi, is at the forefront of this growth. One reason is the special attention from the country's Department of Culture and Tourism. In particular, in 2021, it launched the Abu Dhabi Gaming (AD Gaming) initiative. Its goal is to transform the UAE into a leading gaming and esports hub.
The project annually supports more than a dozen local events dedicated to the gaming market, including the WN Conference, and helps industry representatives connect with potential Arab investors.
About the Venue
Now let's talk about the event itself, starting with the venue.
On February 11-12, the conference will be hosted by the exhibition halls of the prestigious Yas Marina complex. It is located near the Formula 1 race track, theme parks Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World, as well as harbors with elite yacht clubs.
Close to Yas Marina, within walking distance, there are premium hotels operated by international brands such as Radisson, Hilton, Rotana, and Crowne Plaza. This makes it easy for WN Conference guests to reach the location.
About the Program
We will cover the conference talks in detail in a separate publication. For now, let's note that the lecture part is extensive and includes presentations from representatives of Ubisoft, AD Gaming, Mundfish, Razer, and many other market leaders.
As part of the event, there will traditionally be a showcase supported by GEM Capital. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore several dozen projects at various stages of development.
Developers wishing to participate can still apply by February 5. Registration is available through this link. As a bonus, exhibitors will receive free admission to the conference.
Additionally, developers will compete for topplace in the competition organized by WN Game Finder. The jury includes professionals from KRAFTON, Saber Interactive, Mundfish, and MGVC.
An expo area will also be featured, showcasing sponsor booths. Sponsors include Malpa, Strategy Park, Brightika, RoasUp, HardBit, Infinite Art Solutions, and many more.
Tickets
Ticket prices start from €259 (excluding fees). This is the price for indie teams with fewer than seven members. Standard and premium tickets are available for larger companies.
The standard ticket includes access to a pre-party, starting at €499 for developers and publishers, and €749 for representatives of providers and service companies. The premium ticket, in addition to the pre-party, grants access to a major party on the first day of the conference. It costs €699 for developers and publishers and €1049 for providers.
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For WN Media Group, this is the second major event in Abu Dhabi. Exactly one year ago, the debut WN Conference Abu Dhabi’24 took place. The previous conference gathered around 500 guests.