Financial services provider Mastercard has signed a three-year deal with Saudi Esports Federation as one of the official sponsors of esports and gaming event – Gamers8.

The American company is expected to cater the financial accessibility needs to a varied range of gamers in the ever-growing gaming community that Saudi Arabia possesses.

This deal emphasizes Mastercard’s adherence to giving out unique and quality experiences to the gamers, gaming enthusiasts and consumers in the country. Gamers8 is organised by Saudi Esports Federation and runs every day until September 8 at Boulevard Riyadh City. 

Mastercard and Saudi Esports Federation will join forces on augmented reality (AR) and metaverse activations, loyalty solutions for fans and gamers, a gaming virtual card of Mastercard and non-fungible tokens (NFTs). Consumption of gaming and esports in Saudi Arabia is estimated to reach USD 6.8 billion by 2030, as per a recent report by Boston Consulting Group.

Chief Operating Officer of Saudi Esports Federation Ahmed Albishri said that the partnership with Mastercard represents a significant and timely step forward. He added that it would help them catch up with the rest of the world and help themselves propel in the gaming community.

“The Saudi Esports Federation was established to nurture the Kingdom’s elite gaming athletes and develop its gaming community and industry,” Albishri was quoted as saying by BroadcastPro. “Over the years, we have taken several important strides towards doing exactly that.” 

“Our partnership with Mastercard represents a significant and timely step forward, one that will not only help us keep pace with the rest of the world but propel us to the leading edge of gaming. Together with Mastercard, we look forward to delivering truly rewarding experiences and creating lasting memories for people across the country to revel in. This promises to be a game-changer for all players,” added Albishri.

Country General Manager of MENA Central, Mastercard, Adam Jones said that Gamers8 is shaping up as a unique and “history-making” event, and one that showcases the nation’s progress as a leading digital hub. He added that Mastercard is delighted to be working with Saudi Esports Federation and their network to deliver the “greatest esports and gaming event ever”.