Saudi-based game development studio Fahy has raised $1.75 million in a strategic investment round led by Impact46 and Merak Capital. The funding will accelerate Fahy’s mission of creating globally successful mobile games from Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom’s growing ambition to become a gaming powerhouse.
From Indie Team to Scalable Studio
Founded in 2023 by Hani Hashem, Owis Alsaour, and Fahad Alshibl, Fahy has quickly made its mark in the gaming ecosystem. The team’s journey began at NEOM’s LevelUp accelerator, where they evolved from a small indie group into a scalable studio.
Fahy also formed a key publishing partnership with Kwalee, a global leader in mobile game publishing. This partnership provided access to expertise in user acquisition, monetization, and international distribution—giving Fahy the tools to compete at a global level.
A Strategy Built on Hybrid-Casual Games
Fahy is betting on the hybrid-casual genre—games that are easy to pick up but offer depth and meaningful progression. As CEO Hani Hashem explains:
“Today’s gamers want more than short-lived entertainment. They seek accessible gameplay with long-term rewards. That’s the future we’re building for.”
The studio’s pipeline already includes several ambitious titles:
- RAWR – A monster-collecting RPG with unique battles, deep progression, and storytelling.
- Footy Traps – A fast-paced PvP football game where strategy decides the winner.
- Heist Party – A chaotic multiplayer game of teamwork, betrayal, and loot chasing.
Backing from Leading Investors
The investment is seen as both a boost for Fahy and a broader signal of Saudi Arabia’s gaming ambitions.
Impact46, a leading Saudi investment firm, praised Fahy’s potential to deliver high-quality games. Managing Partner Basmah Al Sinaidi said:
“Fahy is one of the standout studios in Saudi Arabia. We believe in their vision to create exceptional games and experiences.”
Merak Capital also highlighted the Kingdom’s role in global gaming. Abdulelah Alshareef, VP of Venture Capital, noted:
“Mobile gaming is one of the fastest-growing sectors worldwide. Fahy is uniquely positioned to build engaging experiences that reach global audiences.”
Why This Matters for Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia is already home to 24 million gamers, making up 67% of the population. Local players also outspend their global peers, highlighting a strong domestic market. With the global gaming industry projected to multiply in size by 2030, investments like this help establish the Kingdom as a serious player in the industry.
Looking Ahead
With fresh funding, Fahy plans to expand its production capacity, grow its team, and deliver new titles that compete internationally. Its vision remains clear:
- Build global hit games.
- Do it from Saudi Arabia.
- Showcase the Kingdom as a hub for gaming innovation.
As Fahy continues its journey, it not only represents a studio on the rise but also a symbol of Saudi Arabia’s growing influence in the global gaming economy.