Saudi Arabia Launches Electronic Games Authority

The official newspaper of Saudi Arabia, Umm Al-Qura, has published the organizational arrangements for the Saudi Electronic Games and Sports Authority, following the Cabinet's approval for its establishment in December.

As reported in its latest issue, the Saudi Electronic Games and Sports Authority aims to regulate, enhance, sustain, and increase the attractiveness of the sector while addressing its challenges.

The Authority, endowed with a legal personality and financial and administrative independence, is organizationally linked to the Prime Minister and headquartered in Riyadh.

It has the provision to establish branches or offices within the Kingdom as needed.

The Authority's organizational arrangements include, without infringing on the competencies of other entities, proposing sector-related system projects and regulations, suggesting amendments to existing ones, and supervising the implementation of the sector's strategy. 

It is also responsible for setting sector-specific standards and procedures.

Moreover, the Authority is tasked with developing strategies, policies, plans, programs, and initiatives related to the sector, issuing licenses for electronic games and sports events and championships, and establishing necessary controls and conditions in coordination with relevant entities. 

It will also ensure compliance with license terms and conditions, collect and analyze sector data, and establish a relevant database.

The Authority will collaborate with government and other related entities to execute its mandated tasks and achieve sector objectives. 

This includes facilitating employment for players, providing a suitable work environment, sourcing sponsorship contracts, seeking funding, and developing and programming electronic games and their devices.

Additionally, the Authority is authorized to sign agreements and memorandums of understanding in its fields of competence with relevant entities, both domestically and internationally, as per standard procedures. 

It will organize, participate in, and support conferences, seminars, and workshops related to its areas of expertise and back research and studies in the field, either independently or in collaboration with related entities. 

It will also cooperate with research centers and experts locally and internationally as needed.

The Authority will offer services, operations, and initiatives in its areas of competence and work to create an attractive investment environment to encourage public and private sector partnerships, coordinating with related entities. 

It will represent Saudi Arabia in relevant international and regional organizations related to the sector.