Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing gaming sector just got a boost. Sheba Joy, a mobile gaming studio, has raised $293,000 (SAR 1.1 million) in a pre-seed round led by Merak Capital, a Saudi venture capital firm committed to fueling digital innovation across the region.
From Dubai to Riyadh: A Strategic Shift
Founded in 2021 by Ebrahim Al Hussam and Faisal Aidaros, Sheba Joy began its journey in Dubai Silicon Oasis. But with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 placing gaming and esports at the center of its cultural and economic transformation, the company relocated its headquarters to Riyadh.
The move wasn’t just symbolic. It positioned Sheba Joy at the heart of the Kingdom’s growing gaming ecosystem while keeping a presence in Dubai and maintaining a creative studio in India.
Building Games with Global Potential
So far, Sheba Joy has published two mobile games, with plans to release four more titles in 2025. Backed by Merak Capital, the studio aims to scale its production and deliver experiences that are both culturally grounded and globally appealing.
CEO Ebrahim Al Hussam explained the vision clearly:
“With Merak Capital’s support, we are scaling our operations in Riyadh to deliver world-class titles that can compete internationally and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s vision of becoming a global gaming powerhouse.”
How the Funding Will Be Used
The fresh pre-seed capital will help Sheba Joy strengthen its foundation and accelerate growth in several ways:
- Production Expansion – Boosting development capabilities to roll out multiple new titles.
- Talent Acquisition – Attracting top-tier designers, developers, and storytellers to Riyadh.
- Culturally Grounded Games – Creating experiences that resonate with local audiences while reaching global players.
- Vision 2030 Alignment – Supporting Saudi Arabia’s ambition to become a hub for gaming and interactive entertainment.
Why Merak Capital Invested
For Merak Capital, the investment reflects its broader strategy to fuel the MENA gaming sector, one of the world’s fastest-growing markets. With a youthful population, high smartphone penetration, and increasing global visibility, the region presents massive opportunities.
- Young Demographics – A majority of the population is under 30, driving demand for mobile-first gaming.
- Global Reach – MENA studios are increasingly developing games that resonate beyond the region.
- Strategic Growth – Supporting Saudi Arabia’s effort to establish itself as a leader in digital entertainment.
By backing Sheba Joy, Merak Capital is betting on a studio with the ambition to craft engaging, commercially successful titles that bridge local culture with global gaming trends.
A Step Toward Saudi Arabia’s Gaming Vision
This investment isn’t just about one company. It’s part of a larger movement to transform Saudi Arabia into a global gaming hub. On top of that, it will help in attracting talent, capital, and international recognition.
With Sheba Joy’s upcoming titles and Merak Capital’s backing, the Kingdom is steadily advancing its goal to become a major player in the $300+ billion global gaming industry.