Gaming fans can grab their squads and secure their tickets to GameExpo and the GameExpo Summit, two of the most popular events of the Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF 2024), organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE).
Now in its third year, DEF 2024 brings the return of the immersive GameExpo, with the heart of the festival taking place at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in Zabeel Halls 5 and 6, from 3 to 5 May. Available for a short time only, GameExpo tickets are available with a 25% Early Bird discount, with prices starting from an incredible AED 21.75 for day passes. A celebration of gaming culture, enthusiasts of all ages and genres can explore newly released titles, meet regional and global gaming stars, and take part in esports competitions throughout the three days of GameExpo. An electrifying experience for all, visitors can also join cosplay competitions, coding workshops, Minecraft family challenges in addition to witnessing the epic Play Beyond influencer showdown on the 4 and 5 May.
With a variety of zones to suit different interests, GameExpo takes fans on a thrilling adventure through the Gaming District, where the latest game releases and previews await; the Future Zone, where cutting-edge tech and future gaming ideas can be discovered, and the Retro Zone, where visitors can enjoy a nostalgic blast from the past. No visit to GameExpo will be complete without a visit to The Narrows, a bustling shopping alley where artists will be showcasing their craft.
New for 2024, young gamers and their families can get together and battle it out in games at the new Family Zone, while the Electric Avenue houses a curated selection of specialised electronic retailers, perfect for tech enthusiasts seeking out the latest gaming gear at great prices.
Early Bird discounts are available across all ticket categories for a short time only. Discounted prices start from AED 21.75 for one day or visitors can book to attend to experience all experiences across the full three day program with weekend tickets starting from AED 44.25 with the limited offer. Families of two adults and two children can book an Early BIrd day ticket from AED 89.25 or a three-day pass from AED 224.24. For an enhanced one-day experience available on Saturday and Sunday, limited VIP tickets are available starting from AED 269.25 and include enhanced access to the Play Beyond Influencer Meet and Greet, VOX Premium Row Access, VIP access to the ComicCave autograph queue, priority seating, and AED 100 food and beverage voucher.
Between 1 – 2 May, the GameExpo Summit will come to DWTC, Zabeel Hall 4. Gaming industry professionals can secure their place with tickets now on sale from 8 March, starting from AED 134. A gathering of industry experts across a two-day networking and knowledge-sharing conference offers the perfect opportunity to discover the business of gaming and esports while making valuable connections.
A broad cross-section of the games industry will be represented, from local developers to international CEOs. Ticket holders to GameExpo Summit will have the chance to meet developers, investors, publishers, and industry insiders as well as attend talks and panels in an environment buzzing with innovation and collaboration. The GameExpo Summit will also feature a stage with expert speakers, an expo area, a pitching competition for indie developers, powered by Meet2Match, a platform which helps guests organise meetings.
The game-changing third edition of the festival will feature an action-packed schedule of both free and ticketed events and activities, happening across the city between 19 April to 5 May. Showcasing Dubai as a global gaming hub, DEF 2024 will be the biggest, longest and most thrilling edition yet, offering jaw-dropping gaming experiences, exciting esports tournaments, cutting-edge industry insights, and endless fun for fans and audiences.
