Global Games Show Riyadh Unveils Star-Studded Speaker Lineup of Gaming Legends and Industry Leaders

Riyadh, Saudi Arabia — The Global Games Show Riyadh will bring together esports figures, game developers, creators and policy representatives on 29–30 June in Riyadh, organisers announced. Produced by VAP Group and powered by Times of Games, the two-day event is expected to draw more than 10,000 attendees, over 100 exhibitors and sponsors, and more than 200 global and regional media representatives as it showcases Saudi Arabia’s developing gaming ecosystem.

"This event, organized by VAP Group and powered by Times of Games, is the largest international platform for the gaming industry, esports, and interactive entertainment," said the press release circulated by ZEX PR WIRE on 26 February 2026.

Speakers and programme focus

The first wave of speakers announced spans government, development studios, esports operators and creator-economy leaders. Organisers said the line-up will cover game development, content creation, tournament structures and community-building through keynotes, fireside chats and panel discussions.

• Elie Honain — Chief Executive Officer, NES, will address the evolution of esports infrastructure and competitive gaming ecosystems.
• Majed Aleid — CIRO & Director, Ministry of Investment (MISA), will offer perspectives on national gaming investment strategies and ecosystem development.
• Johnson Yeh — founder and CEO of Ambrus Studio, will discuss the future of global tournaments, "from grassroots to international leagues."
• Malak AlQhtani — CEO & Founder, Valar Club, will highlight innovation in gaming communities, entrepreneurship and next-generation player experiences.
• Xzit Thamer — Gaming Content Creator & PlayStation Playmaker (TikTok | Sony Interactive Entertainment), will share insights on creator-led communities and platform-driven engagement.

Organisers describe the event as bringing "the entire value chain of gaming, from the development stage through the publishing stage, professional esports, game creators, investors, and policy makers." The show is positioned to surface new technologies and experiences, with exhibitors and sponsors slated to demonstrate hardware, software and immersive entertainment offerings.

VAP Group, which the release notes has "over 13 years of experience driving technology-led growth through strategic PR, marketing, and content platforms," also produces related events including the Global AI Show and Global Blockchain Show. The company said its ecosystem connects policymakers, enterprises and innovators worldwide through flagship events and media platforms.

Outlook

For Riyadh, the Global Games Show represents a concentrated effort to showcase local and international industry talent and investment intent ahead of a host of tech-focused events scheduled for the city later in June. The organisers expect the programme and the speaker roster to spur conversations on tournament formats, community monetisation and investment flows into the region’s gaming economy. Media enquiries are being handled via media@globalgamesshow.com, and tickets were listed as available at the event’s registration channels.