UAE-based esports startup True Gamers just hit another major milestone. The gaming café chain secured $5 million in seed funding, pushing its mission to level up the MENA and European esports scenes into high gear.
This follows their massive $45 million funding in January 2024, aimed at launching over 150 esports venues in Saudi Arabia under Vision 2030. Clearly, the e-sport tech startup is playing to win—and they’re not slowing down.
What’s the Game Plan for True Gamers?
With this fresh round of funding, the gaming company plans to:
- ✅ Expand across MENA and Europe
- ✅ Grow their franchise network
- ✅ Strengthen their tech stack
- ✅ Use a hybrid scaling model of franchising + venture capital
“The expansion into Saudi Arabia will elevate True Gamers’ global presence and play a pivotal role in propelling the growth of the Kingdom’s eSports industry,” said CEO Anton Vasilenko.
Who Are True Gamers?
Launched in 2022 by Anton Vasilenko and Vladislav Belyanin, True Gamers runs high-tech gaming cafés tailored for the booming esports community.
- Based in Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM)
- Operates 14 gaming cafés across the UAE
- Expanding to 10+ new locations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Jordan, Germany, and France
Their model combines immersive gaming experiences with pro-level esports setups—creating spaces where gamers can train, compete, and connect.
Why it matters: The Esports Boom
The global gaming industry is exploding:
- Projected to hit $522.46 billion by 2029 (Statista)
- 35% increase in global gaming venture investments this year
- Esports market in GCC alone is set to reach $25.9 million by 2025
- User base expected to hit 5.9 million by 2029
Governments across the region—especially in Saudi Arabia—are heavily investing in esports infrastructure. This is being done as part of broader digital innovation strategies. Vision 2030 identifies esports as a strategic way to engage youth, promote healthy competition, and attract global investment.
The Future of True Gamers
Backed by venture capital and a clear vision, True Gamers is carving out a niche as the esports club of the future. Their blend of competitive gaming spaces, community hubs, and strategic regional growth puts them in a strong position to dominate the MENA gaming market—and make a splash in Europe too.
By combining tech innovation, franchise scalability, and strategic alignment with regional goals, True Gamers is well on its way to becoming a key player in the global esports ecosystem.
