The capital city of Riyadh, specifically the "SEF Arena" hall in Riyadh City Boulevard, witnessed the closing of the sixth edition of the "Saudi Esports Federation Awards" ceremony for the year 2025. This huge event, presented by J Event, came to celebrate a selection of creators, players, clubs, and content creators who contributed to shaping the features of the esports scene in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia during the past year.
Strategic context and ambitious vision
This ceremony is not merely an annual awards event; it is part of a comprehensive national movement led by the Kingdom within the framework of Vision 2030. Since launching the National Strategy for Gaming and Esports, Saudi Arabia has been steadily striving to become a global hub for this vital sector. Such events play a crucial role in fostering a competitive environment and raising professional standards, contributing to the diversification of the national economy and creating new job opportunities for young Saudis passionate about technology and gaming.
Details of the ceremony and statements from officials
Amidst a significant media and public presence, 22 awards were presented, covering all aspects of the industry. In his address during the ceremony, His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Saudi Esports Federation, stated: "Today, we celebrate the spirit of creativity and passion that characterizes the gaming and esports community. Another year has passed, filled with achievements, during which we witnessed how our sons and daughters continued to soar with their skills, placing the Kingdom's mark on the global map." His Highness emphasized that the Federation's ambitions know no bounds, thanks to the unwavering support of the wise leadership.
For her part, Rawan Al Butairi, CEO of the Federation, indicated that the 2025 awards embody the accelerated maturation of the system, stressing that the event represents an inspirational platform for amateurs and professionals alike, and praising the pivotal role of sponsors and partners in achieving this success.
Expected impact and future of the sector
These awards are gaining increasing importance as the Kingdom's status as a leading destination for global tournaments, such as the Esports World Cup, grows. Recognizing local talent in diverse categories like FPS, MOBA, and Battle Royale not only motivates players but also sends a message to the international community about the readiness of Saudi talent to compete on the global stage, thus enhancing the Kingdom's soft power in the technology and digital entertainment sector.
List of winners of the Saudi Esports Federation Awards 2025
The awards covered multiple categories, and the most prominent results were as follows:
- Best Esports Club: Falcons Team
- Best up-and-coming club: Stallions
- Best Team: Twisted Minds – Overwatch
- Best emerging player: Ziyad Al-Kathiri
- Best up-and-coming player: Tala Al-Mazrou
- Best player: Moudi Al-Kanhil
- Best Player (FPS): Ahmed Al-Yubi
- Best Player (FIFAe): Yazeed Bakhshween
- Best player (Battle Royale): Abdulrahman Al-Fahad
- Best player (combat games): Raef Turkistani
- Best Player (MOBA): Muath Al-Quraini
- Best coach: Abdulrahman bin Fayez
- Best Media Coverage: Esports Coverage
- Best female talent: Ghala Al-Qahtani
- Best emerging talent: Zaid Al-Faraj
- Best analytical talent: Mohammed Al-Anzi
- Best commentator: Ali Darraj
- Best presenter: Abdulaziz Al-Muhanna
- Best streamer: Mufreh Asiri
- Best up-and-coming streamer: Waleed Al Shamali
- Best content creator: Youssef Hannawi
- Best up-and-coming content creator: Abdulaziz Al-Muhammadi
