Tencent Cloud Launches First Middle East Cloud Region in KSA

Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global technology giant Tencent, has officially launched its first Middle East Cloud Region in Saudi Arabia. The new region, featuring two availability zones with full redundancy and advanced cloud services, is expected to be operational by 2025. This launch marks Saudi Arabia’s entry into Tencent Cloud’s global network, which spans over 50 availability zones across 21 regions worldwide, significantly expanding its capabilities in the Middle East.

At the LEAP 2025 technology summit, Tencent also revealed a substantial investment commitment of over US$150 million in infrastructure and resources over the next few years, supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and contributing to the Kingdom’s digital transformation. This investment will enable Tencent Cloud to deliver a range of advanced cloud solutions to the Middle East, including artificial intelligence (AI), analytics, superapp technologies, and digital media services.

Dan Hu, Vice President of Tencent Cloud International for the Middle East and North Africa, highlighted the launch as a major milestone in Tencent Cloud’s growth in the region. The new Cloud Region will support Saudi Arabia’s digital transformation across key sectors such as digital media, gaming, esports, e-commerce, financial services, telecommunications, and more. Tencent Cloud is also focused on expanding its reach and providing critical digital infrastructure to help businesses innovate and scale.

Tencent is already a leader in the digital entertainment, media, and streaming industries, with a strong presence in gaming and content creation. Known for global hits like Honor of Kings and PUBG MOBILE, Tencent Cloud offers tailored solutions for social media, payment platforms, and music and video services. The launch of the Saudi Cloud Region comes as part of Tencent’s broader strategy to support the region’s digital transformation and growth, especially in the gaming and esports sectors. Saudi Arabia’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy aims to position the Kingdom as a global gaming hub, with the country preparing to host the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC).

Tencent Cloud has experienced significant growth in the Middle East, with the region becoming one of its fastest-growing markets. Notable projects include collaborations in Abu Dhabi, where Tencent Cloud’s AI technologies were used to create Khalifa, the UAE’s first AI-powered digital ambassador for culture and tourism. Tencent Cloud’s partnerships with regional players like ZainTech and game developers further drive innovation in the region, helping local enterprises leverage the power of cloud computing and AI to enhance their operations and offerings.

With the launch of the Saudi Cloud Region, Tencent Cloud continues to strengthen its position in the Middle East, offering Middle Eastern businesses the opportunity to expand into the Chinese market. Tencent Cloud’s global presence, spanning Asia, Europe, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific, empowers companies to unlock new opportunities and scale their operations. The expansion into Saudi Arabia demonstrates Tencent Cloud’s commitment to providing cutting-edge cloud solutions that foster long-term growth and innovation for businesses across the Middle East.