Female gamers took centre stage at the recently concluded Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF), as GameExpo brought together players, fans, and industry leaders to celebrate the continued growth of gaming and esports across the region.
Thousands attended the festival’s flagship three-day event, which featured competitions, experiences, and community activities.
Among the highlights were opportunities for female gamers to compete on stage, connect with the wider gaming community, and inspire the next generation of players.
Emirati players compete in front of packed crowds
One of the standout moments came during the Valorant Championship, where Emirati female gamers stepped onto the main stage to represent the University of Wollongong and Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) esports teams.
Competing in front of an enthusiastic crowd, the players showcased both their skills and the growing presence of women in competitive gaming.
As esports continues to gain momentum across the Middle East, moments like these are helping create greater visibility for female players and encouraging wider participation across the region.
Mary Gaming reflects on the growth of esports
Also attending GameExpo was Maryam Maher, better known as Mary Gaming, one of the region’s most successful esports competitors.
In 2022, she made history by winning the Valorant Champions title with G2 Gozen, becoming the first GCC-based female gamer to sign with an international esports organisation.
Today, she believes the industry offers more opportunities than ever before.
She said:
“Esports is one of the biggest industries and it’s great to see professional female gamers competing and doing something that they love.
Today, the industry continues to grow from strength to strength, and I believe it’s more accessible than many traditional sports. It is really easy for females to start their interest in gaming, and develop their skills over time.
The important factors are dedication and commitment as these can help them work their way up and reach the highest level in gaming and esports.”
More opportunities than ever before
Reflecting on her own journey, Maryam highlighted how much the industry has evolved since she first started gaming.
She added:
“I first started playing games when I was eight-years-old. Back then, there were not as many opportunities as before as there are today and has grown so much.
“There were not as many events. However, seeing events like GameExpo being held is really good as it helps people connect, make new friends and explore more about gaming.
Esports is one of the biggest industries and opportunities like these events will help raise more awareness, attract new audiences and tournaments being held, which bodes for the future.”
Building a more inclusive gaming community
Beyond competition, DEF said that it continues to play an important role in creating pathways for future talent and encouraging greater diversity within the gaming industry.
By providing opportunities for players to compete, learn, and connect, the festival says it helps strengthen Dubai’s position as a regional hub for gaming, esports, and digital entertainment.
DEF 2026 was presented by du, with support from key partners including Amazon, Dubai Culture, Jetour UAE, part of Elite Group Holding, and talabat.
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