Turki Alfawzan: Pioneering the Future of Esports in Saudi Arabia
Ambitions and Mission
Turki Alfawzan, the CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF), is on a mission to transform Saudi Arabia into a global esports powerhouse. His vision is deeply rooted in his personal experiences as a young gamer, where he discovered the community and competitive spirit that esports offers. Now, as the leader of SEF, he is channeling that passion into creating opportunities for others and reshaping the esports landscape.
Vision 2030 and Esports
Alfawzan’s ambitions align with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a national initiative aimed at diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on oil. Esports, with its rapid growth and massive global viewership, represents a billion-dollar sector with immense potential. Under Alfawzan’s guidance, SEF has grown from a bold concept into a billion-dollar force, making Saudi Arabia a key player in the global esports scene.
Building a Global Gaming Superpower
Alfawzan’s mission is not just about promoting esports within Saudi Arabia but about establishing the Kingdom as a global hub for gaming. He envisions creating 39,000 jobs and contributing $13 billion to the GDP by 2030. His strategy involves nurturing a competitive talent pool, establishing new game developers, and fostering a culture that supports esports at all levels.
Balancing Leadership and Passion
Despite his leadership role, Alfawzan remains connected to his roots as a gamer. He acknowledges the challenge of balancing his passion for gaming with his responsibilities as a leader. “I miss Turki the player,” he admits, highlighting the importance of staying true to his love for esports while driving the industry forward.
The Future of Esports in Saudi Arabia
Alfawzan’s vision is ambitious, but his track record shows that it is achievable. With SEF’s continued growth and the Kingdom’s commitment to esports, Saudi Arabia is well on its way to becoming a global gaming superpower. As Alfawzan puts it, “We’ve created an exceptional success story, but from today to 2030, we’re building something that will be taught in universities”.
Educating Parents on Esports
One of the key elements in achieving Alfawzan’s vision is educating parents about the potential and opportunities within the esports industry. Many parents are still unaware of the vast career opportunities that esports can offer. From professional gaming and coaching to game development and event management, the industry is multifaceted and offers numerous pathways for young enthusiasts.
To bridge this knowledge gap, SEF has initiated educational programs and workshops aimed at parents, highlighting the economic potential of esports and the importance of supporting their children’s interests. By fostering a better understanding of the industry, Alfawzan hopes to gain parental support, which is crucial for the growth and acceptance of esports in Saudi Arabia.
