The most popular game genres in UAE

Evolving with technology, UAE gamers explore diverse genres across platforms. This article explores the rich gaming industry, exploring popular genres shaping UAE's gaming culture.

Mobile gaming in the UAE

Puzzle games - A cultural favourite

Puzzle games dominate mobile gaming in the UAE, excelling in downloads and player engagement. Their accessible yet intellectually stimulating gameplay resonates with UAE gamers, offering casual yet mentally engaging experiences.

Data reflecting dominance

According to recent industry reports, puzzle games account for over 40 per cent of mobile game downloads in the UAE, showcasing their overwhelming popularity. Moreover, these games boast an average daily engagement rate of more than 60 per cent, signifying sustained interest and involvement among players.

Racing and sports games - A surging trend

Mobile racing and sports games mirror puzzle games' popularity surge. With high-speed action and user-friendly controls, they climb the revenue ladder, posing a compelling alternative to puzzle games' dominance in the gaming market.

Multiplayer online games in UAE

While single-player adventures hold their charm, the pulse-pounding excitement of multiplayer online games (MMOs) has captured the hearts (and screens) of many UAE gamers.

Dominating the scene - Popular MMO genres in UAE

Massively multiplayer online role-playing games (MMORPGs): These sprawling virtual worlds like "World of Warcraft" and "Final Fantasy XIV" have established a dedicated fanbase in the UAE. Players create their characters, embark on epic quests, and socialize in bustling online communities.

Multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games: Titles like "League of Legends" and "Dota 2" have taken the UAE by storm with their fast-paced, strategic team battles. Players choose unique heroes with diverse abilities, work together to dominate the map, and unleash their competitive spirit in adrenaline-pumping matches.

Battle royale games: The "last man standing" thrill of games like "Fortnite" and "Apex Legends" has resonated well with UAE gamers. Dropping into expansive maps, scavenging for weapons, and outsmarting your opponents in tense encounters offers a unique brand of excitement.

Local developers' rise to prominence

The burgeoning popularity of local mobile game developers within the UAE gaming scene has been nothing short of remarkable. Statistics indicate a substantial increase in the success rate of homegrown titles. Notably, games developed by UAE-based studios have witnessed a notable 50% increase in downloads and engagement over the past year.

Augmented reality and social integration - Game-changing mechanics

In UAE mobile gaming, innovative mechanics like augmented reality (AR) and social integration redefine the landscape. Games with these features see a notable 60 per cent increase in user retention and engagement, highlighting their game-changing impact.

Cultural themes and language integration - engaging a diverse audience

In UAE mobile gaming, cultural themes and Arabic language integration profoundly engage diverse audiences. Titles incorporating these elements show a notable 45 per cent rise in player engagement, underscoring the significance of cultural relevance and linguistic inclusivity.

Understanding the impact - Insights beyond numbers

Recent revenue data reveals a staggering 70 per cent increase in the revenue generated by racing and sports games in the past year alone. Specific titles within these genres have witnessed a surge in downloads, with a notable 50 per cent increase compared to the previous year.

PC and console gaming in UAE

Racing games - The drive for immersion

In UAE's PC and console gaming space, racing titles like Formula 1 games dominate, offering immersive experiences. These games captivate audiences with detailed simulations and stunning graphics, standing out in the world of gaming.

Figures reflecting dominance

Recent data showcases a notable surge in the popularity of racing titles in the UAE's PC and console gaming market. Specific titles like Fortnite Battle Royale and FIFA have witnessed a staggering 40 per cent increase in sales and downloads over the past year showcasing exactly what players are looking for.

Delving deeper - Understanding preferences

The preferences for racing and sports games extend beyond their graphical prowess or gameplay mechanics. Racing games, with their detailed simulations, offer an escape into immersive worlds that captivate players seeking a heightened sense of realism and competition.

Shagun Sharma is a business journalist