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MOONTON Games, the developer behind the popular mobile game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), has teamed up with the Saudi Esports Federation (SEF) to advance the esports scene in Saudi Arabia. This partnership was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at the New Global Sport Conference (NGSC) in Riyadh. The signing ceremony was attended by Lucas Mao, Managing Director of Global Esports at MOONTON Games, and Turki Alfawzan, CEO of SEF.
The MoU outlines a collaborative effort to enhance Saudi Arabia’s esports industry. Key areas of focus include marketing, organizing professional tournaments, and fostering education and community development within the esports sector. Additionally, the SEF has committed to featuring MLBB in its event calendar for 2025, signaling a significant push for the game's presence in the region.
This new agreement follows MOONTON's recent activities in the Middle East, including a partnership with the Saudi Arabian entertainment project Qiddiya and previous collaborations with esports federations. The company also worked with the United States Esports Federation (USEF) to support MLBB player selection and partnered with MPL MENA earlier this year.
Lucas Mao expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting the growing popularity of MLBB in Saudi Arabia. "MLBB has seen substantial growth in the Kingdom, both in terms of fan base and competitive play," Mao said. He highlighted recent successes, such as the impressive performances of regional teams at the MLBB Mid Season Cup (MSC) 2024, held alongside the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. Mao emphasized the partnership's potential to further develop the esports ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the National Gaming and Esports Strategy.
The SEF's commitment to fostering esports talent extends beyond this new MoU. Last year, the federation partnered with the British Esports Federation to support talent development through cultural exchanges and educational programs. However, Saudi Arabia's increased involvement in esports has been met with criticism due to the country's human rights record, raising concerns about the motivations behind its esports investments.
Despite these controversies, the partnership between MOONTON Games and the SEF marks a significant step in expanding the esports landscape in Saudi Arabia, promising new opportunities for players and fans alike.