Merak Capital and Huawei Cloud Partner to Power Saudi Gaming Startups

Merak Capital, a technology-focused investment firm licensed by the Capital Market Authority (CMA), has partnered with Huawei Cloud, a global cloud computing company, to drive the growth of Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry. This collaboration aims to provide gaming startups with advanced cloud infrastructure, technical expertise, and business support, fostering innovation in line with Saudi Vision 2030.

The partnership builds on the Merak Gaming Fund (MGF), an $80 million investment fund under the Gaming and Esports Sector Financing Program, overseen by the National Development Fund (NDF) in collaboration with the Social Development Bank and the Saudi Esports Federation. The fund plays a crucial role in advancing the National Gaming and Esports Strategy (NGES) and the Ignite Digital Content Program, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s vision to position the Kingdom as a regional leader in digital entertainment and technology-driven economic diversification.

As part of this initiative, gaming startups in the Exel Gaming Accelerator program will gain access to Huawei Cloud’s infrastructure credits, advanced technical workshops, cloud-native gaming development training, personalized cloud optimization consultation, and ongoing knowledge-sharing sessions. These resources will empower startups to develop scalable gaming solutions while enhancing cost efficiency.

Abdullah Altamami, Founder and CEO of Merak Capital, emphasized the significance of the initiative, stating that the $80 million gaming fund and Exel Gaming Accelerator reinforce the commitment to building a thriving gaming ecosystem. He highlighted the importance of Huawei Cloud’s cutting-edge technology in enabling startups to expand into global markets. Lawrence Liu, CEO of Huawei Cloud Saudi Arabia, underscored the role of cloud technology in Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation, noting that the collaboration with Merak Capital will help local gaming startups innovate and compete internationally while supporting Vision 2030’s digital economic diversification goals.

Applications for the Exel Gaming Accelerator cohort are open until February 16, 2025, inviting gaming startups with innovative solutions and strong growth potential to benefit from this comprehensive support system. The partnership between Merak Capital and Huawei Cloud marks a significant step in strengthening Saudi Arabia’s gaming industry, fostering local talent, and driving digital innovation.