GameExpo 2025 Returns To Dubai This DEF With Free-To-Play Fun, Big Prizes, And All-Out Entertainment For All Ages
Get ready for epic fun, all-out creativity, and non-stop action as the power-packed Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) brings back its eagerly awaited flagship event, GameExpo from 9 to 11 May. Once again taking over Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) – this year in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3 – the weekend-long event will return bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before. Promising a fun weekend out for friends and families, everyone and anyone is invited to discover an exciting line-up of non-stop gaming, fresh new activations, and exciting prizes – with every experience completely free to play.
Whether coming with friends, spending the day with family, or simply exploring the world of technology, creativity, and entertainment, there will be something in store for all ages, interests, and abilities. Tickets are available exclusively on Platinumlist.
EXPLORE EIGHT EPIC ZONES
The expansive, reimagined space will be packed with something new to try, explore, and enjoy, featuring eight interactive zones with next-level entertainment and immersive activities. Every single experience will be free to play, from first-time launches and hands-on tech showcases to cosplay, tournaments, and live influencer showdowns.
The Retro Zone will offer a nostalgic and interactive experience for visitors of all ages with iconic arcade machines like Pac-Man, Space Invaders, and Donkey Kong; as well as an epic custom-built track for remote control racing cars by Otaku ME along with an immersive building experience in a dedicated workshop space. The Emirates NBD Family Zone will return by popular demand with inclusive, all-age experiences, interactive and hands-on gaming, and an electrifying family-friendly atmosphere, complete with the exclusive Emirates NBD Fortnite Map to gaming consoles such as XBOX and PlayStation, making it an enjoyable and engaging destination for families and attendees of all ages. The ultimate esports and competitive gaming will await visitors in the Main Arena, the central hub of excitement and engagement at GameExpo with a brand-new, state-of-the-art stage setup that will showcase the event’s premier competitions, live shows, and interactive experiences including crowd-favourite titles like EA FC 25, Tekken 8, Valorant and Fortnite. Meanwhile, the Gaming District will host over 100 devices and a mixture of PC and console gaming showcasing the top gaming titles, including a special highlight for local game developers Foxrito and Dark Emerald Studio who will be showcasing their PC games made in the UAE. Gaming enthusiasts will be able to explore The Narrows, a vibrant marketplace featuring the latest exclusive merchandise, and collectibles. Meanwhile, two dedicated talabat F&B Zones will bring a diverse range of food options, creating a lively space for attendees to relax and recharge between gaming sessions. Plus, the DEF Main Stage will host the UAE’s largest inter-school gaming finals, fan-favourite streamers, exciting Red Bull match-ups, electrifying live shows, and epic showdowns in Fortnite, Minecraft, Valorant, and more.
A brand-new highlight of GameExpo 2025 will be The Amazon Quest, an “In Real Life” (IRL) experience brought to you by Amazon with four challenges specially designed to test participants’ real-world skills, strategy, and coordination as they compete for prizes from Amazon.ae. Also debuting this year will be the Just Dance Zone, in partnership with Ubisoft, inviting attendees to dance off, compete live, and enjoy themed photo ops – all to the best tracks from the Just Dance franchise. Adding to the fun, the Dubai Just Dance Championship will be hosted in collaboration with Ubisoft on 11 May at 3PM, for the chance for finalists to take home a Nintendo Switch and many more amazing prizes.
PLAY BEYOND WITH GAMING LEGENDS
Elevating the thrill at GameExpo, Play Beyond will take center stage on 10 and 11May, bringing together the region’s top gaming influencers and esports pros for electrifying showdowns. MENA’s leading influencer, Abo Flah, will return to the stage, joining top gamers including Sultan Khalifa, 6th_kage, Mr. Warta, and Khaled Dego as they face off in high-stakes showdowns for the coveted Play Beyond trophy. Fans will be able to witness high-intensity matchups and take part in interactive gameplay challenges, ensuring an unforgettable experience.
UNLEASH COSPLAY CREATIVITY
Fans of anime, video games, movies, and comics will be invited to step into the spotlight at GameExpo’s Dubai Cosplay Championship on 11 May. Cosplayers will have the chance to compete for cash prizes worth up to AED 30,000 by showcasing their creativity in stunning transformations. The event will kick-off with the Cosplay Opening Act, followed by the Daily Cosplay Catwalk, and Cosplay Competition to crown the region’s best, most exceptional craftsmanship and performance. Fans will also have the opportunity to meet top cosplayers, learn from their expertise, and immerse themselves in the dynamic cosplay community. Registration for the competition closes on 7 May. Participants are encouraged to sign-up today through the Cosplay Registration Form.
LEVEL UP WITH LEADING BRANDS
GameExpo will also bring cutting-edge gaming and tech experiences from top partners. The Web3 Pavilion: Bitget X SWEAT will blend fitness with crypto rewards, while The Red Bull Gaming Grounds will challenge visitors to set the fastest lap for epic prizes and meet top gamers. Nasr Esports Academy will showcase interactive gaming and pro-led workshops, while Haribo will bring their iconic pick-and-mix cart to the event alongside mascot meet-and-greet for fans.
Dubai Police will host adrenaline-pumping tournaments across Valorant, CS2, EAFC25, Mobile Legends, as well as opportunities for open play on PC and PS5 games. Rove Hotels will level up GameExpo with a dedicated gaming lounge, where visitors can kick back with PS5 set-ups, explore a wide range of video games, and get behind the wheel of a high-speed racing simulator for a taste of track-day thrills. A one-of-a-kind AI Vista Photobooth will offer a futuristic twist that combines cutting-edge technology with interactive fun, allowing visitors to create stunning AI-generated portraits in real time.
Making its GCC debut, The Vintage Company will showcase an extraordinary collection of retro and rare gaming memorabilia, in addition to a Next Grading certification corner where visitors will be able to meet expert graders, purchase certified collectibles, or submit their own vintage games for grading. In a world-first unveiling, global developer Antifreeze will launch a brand-new gaming console exclusively for GameExpo attendees to try for the first time ever, in addition to inviting everyone to conquer daily on-stand challenges for the chance to win exciting prizes.
Benefit will join GameExpo with a bold, beach-themed stand, featuring everything from immersive product trials to on-the-spot glam makeovers. Visitors will be able to explore the campaign-themed booth, play fun games, and win exclusive giveaways – either instantly or redeemable in-store – while also engaging in photo-worthy moments. Benefit will also be supporting female Valorant esports players with on-brand makeup kits and offering backstage touch-ups for cosplayers.
TICKETS STILL ON SALE
Tickets for GameExpo 2025 are now on sale on Platinumlist for students, families, and fans. One-day entry is priced at AED 39 for students and AED 69 for adults. Those planning to attend all three days can opt for multi-day passes, priced at AED 69 for students and AED 139 for adults. A limited number of Pro Gamer Experience tickets are also available, giving fans one-day access to exclusive meet-and-greets with top creators such as Abo Flah, for AED 199. Families of six (two adults and four children) can enjoy a one-day pass for AED 149 or access all three days of GameExpo 2025 for AED 299.
GETTING TO GAMEEXPO HAS NEVER BEEN EASIER
Reaching the GameExpo is convenient and hassle-free for all visitors. The Dubai World Trade Centre is easily accessible via the Dubai Metro, several RTA bus routes, and taxis. Those choosing to drive can find ample parking throughout DWTC with six convenient paid car parks, two free car parks, as well as onsite valet services. GameExpo visitors can also benefit from an AED 5 discount on parking fees.
Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) 2025 is supported by Strategic Partners which include: Amazon, du, Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, Emirates NBD, Red Bull, Rove, Roxy Cinemas, talabat, and Virgin Radio.
For more information on Dubai Esports and Games Festival 2025, please visit the DEF 2025 website and follow @DubaiFestivals on Instagram, TikTok, and LinkedIn.