Aqaba: Under the patronage of HRH Prince Omar bin Faisal, President of the Jordan Esports Federation, the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) has launched the Aqaba Gaming and Esports Strategy (2025-2027). This initiative aims to attract investments in Jordan's digital and creative economy and establish Aqaba as a regional hub in the burgeoning gaming and esports sector.
According to Jordan News Agency, ASEZA Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, Shadi Majali, emphasized that the strategy aligns with the royal vision to develop Aqaba as a technology and digital economy hub. Majali highlighted the potential of esports to empower youth, foster creativity, and support innovation. The plan complements ASEZA's 2024-2028 strategy on entrepreneurship and innovation, as well as the National Games and Esports Strategy (2023-2027) launched by the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship.
Majali further noted that the project is not merely technical but also a tourism and knowledge product, contributing to Aqaba's ecosystem and enhancing its appeal to youth and tourists seeking combined experiences in entertainment, sports, and technology.
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship's Secretary General, Samira Zou'bi, stated that the national esports strategy is crucial for promoting Jordan as a regional industry hub, creating quality jobs, and supporting the digital economy. Zou'bi commended the partnership with ASEZA in synchronizing national and local initiatives.
Commissioner for Tourism and Youth Affairs at ASEZA, Thabet Hassan Nabulsi, detailed key components of the plan, such as the establishment of a Digital Games Center featuring high-speed connectivity, cloud computing, and infrastructure for broadcasting, tournaments, and game development. He acknowledged support from the ministry, the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), and private sector partnerships, including an agreement between FATE Esport and the Aqaba Digital Hub to train teams and players for regional and international competitions.
Nabulsi assured that ASEZA will maintain collaboration with the Jordan Esports Federation to ensure sustainability and attract investment, positioning Aqaba as a competitive regional platform for talent and innovation.