Coverage of the MENA games and esports industry has traditionally focused on large-scale investment markets such as Saudi Arabia and the UAE. However, Jordan is increasingly emerging as a structural contributor to the regional ecosystem, driven by talent, production capability, and policy-backed growth rather than capital intensity.
According to figures reported by The Jordan Times, Jordan’s gaming market was valued at approximately USD 312.8 million in 2024, with forecasts suggesting the market could nearly double by 2030, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 11.5%. While modest compared to Gulf markets, this trajectory reflects a stable and production-oriented ecosystem rather than a consumption-heavy one.
An Esports Talent-First Market
Jordan’s competitive advantage lies primarily in human capital. As reported by Jordan News Agency, the government has positioned gaming and esports as part of the broader digital economy, with initiatives aimed at developing technical and creative skills among youth. The country’s expanding pool of developers, designers, and engineers has enabled local studios to operate efficiently and integrate into regional and global value chains.
This talent-centric approach has allowed Jordan to evolve beyond a pure consumer market into a production and services hub, supporting game development, localization, co-development, and esports operations across MENA.
Game Development as an Economic Pillar
Jordan’s game development sector is characterized by small and mid-sized studios with regional ambitions. According to AGBI, the national games and esports strategy aims to create up to 3,000 jobs in the gaming sector by 2027, while increasing the industry’s contribution to the local economy.
Studios such as Maysalward and Tamatem, frequently cited in regional industry coverage by outlets including PocketGamer.biz, demonstrate how Jordan-based teams are producing and scaling Arabic-focused games for MENA audiences, reinforcing the country’s role as a content creation center.
Esports Growth Through Community
Jordan’s esports ecosystem has grown largely through grassroots and academic initiatives. As reported by Jordan Pulse and local industry coverage, universities and community organizers play a central role in tournament organization, talent discovery, and esports education. While Jordan does not yet host large international esports spectacles, Jordanian players, commentators, and organizers are increasingly active in regional competitions.
This community-led development model has resulted in a resilient esports foundation capable of scaling sustainably as regional integration increases.
Why Jordan Matters to Regional Esports
Jordan is positioning itself as a regional connector between the Levant, Gulf, and North African markets. For publishers, developers, and investors seeking sustainable growth rather than short-term hype, Jordan represents a strategic supply-side market within the MENA games and esports economy.
