A Festival for Gamers of All Ages
First launched in 2022, DEF has grown rapidly into one of the region’s biggest gaming events. This year’s festival is specially aligned with the UAE’s Year of the Family, offering more opportunities for gamers of all ages to participate and enjoy.
Whether you’re a competitive esports player, a cosplay enthusiast, a casual gamer, or a family looking for a fun weekend outing, DEF 2026 has something for everyone.
Dubai Esports & Games Festival 2026 Dates and Venue
Festival Dates: May 8 – May 24, 2026 |
Main GameExpo Dates: May 22 – May 24, 2026 |
Location: Dubai World Trade Centre.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates.
Phone: +971600555559
Email: info@dubaitourism.ae
Map: View Google direction here.
GameExpo 2026 Dubai – Event Timings
- 22 May 2026: 2:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- 23 May 2026: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- 24 May 2026: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
What to Expect at GameExpo?
This year’s expo will be bigger and better, featuring:
- Over 100 gaming consoles
- 10 immersive themed zones including:
- Neo Tokyo District
- Battle Arena
- Velocity Garage
- The latest game releases and retro favorites
- Live stage shows featuring top gamers and cosplayers
- Esports tournaments and competitions
- Meet regional and global gaming stars
For the first time ever, DEF 2026 is partnering with LEGO® Certified Stores, introducing a dedicated LEGO experience. Young visitors can enjoy interactive build zones and creative challenges designed especially for kids.
Themed Zones at GameExpo
Some of the exciting zones include:
- Neo Tokyo District
- Battle Arena
- Velocity Garage
- Main Stage for esports competitions and cosplay shows
For the first time, DEF 2026 is partnering with LEGO® Certified Stores, offering a dedicated LEGO experience with interactive build zones for children.
Dubai Cosplay Championship 2026
The Dubai Cosplay Championship returns as part of DEF 2026, giving cosplay enthusiasts the opportunity to showcase their creativity on a major stage. Registration details will be announced soon on the official website.
Why You Should Attend Dubai Esports & Games Festival 2026?
The Dubai Esports & Games Festival 2026 is one of the most anticipated gaming events in the UAE and the wider Middle East. Whether you are an esports professional, a casual gamer, a content creator, or a family looking for entertainment, DEF 2026 offers:
- Competitive gaming tournaments
- Cutting-edge gaming technology
- Networking opportunities for industry professionals
- Interactive family-friendly entertainment
- A celebration of gaming culture in Dubai
Aligned with the UAE’s Year of the Family, this year’s festival ensures more inclusive and engaging experiences for visitors of all ages.
How to Register for DEF 2026?
Registration is now open for:
- Fans
- Students
- Teachers
- Industry professionals
Early bird tickets for GameExpo are currently available. Interested participants can register and find updates on competitions like The Narrows and the Cosplay Championship through the official Dubai Esports Festival website.
How to Register a Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF)?
- Visit https://www.dubaiesportsfestival.com/
- Enter your “Name, Email Address and Phone Number”
- Select your “Country”
- Click “Submit”
Dubai Esports Festival 2026 Ticket Prices
| Day / Pass | Category | Ticket Type | Price (AED) |
| Day 1 – Fri, 22 May 2026 | Adult (18+) | 1 Day Pass | 55 |
| Student | 1 Day Pass | 40 | |
| Family of 6 (2 Adults + 4 Kids) | 1 Day Pass | 115 | |
| Day 2 – Sat, 23 May 2026 | Adult (18+) | 1 Day Pass | 55 |
| Student | 1 Day Pass | 40 | |
| Family of 6 (2 Adults + 4 Kids) | 1 Day Pass | 115 | |
| Day 3 – Sun, 24 May 2026 | Adult (18+) | 1 Day Pass | 55 |
| Student | 1 Day Pass | 40 | |
| Family of 6 (2 Adults + 4 Kids) | 1 Day Pass | 115 | |
| 3 Days Pass (22–24 May 2026) | Adult (18+) | 3 Days Pass | 115 |
| Student | 3 Days Pass | 60 | |
| Family of 6 (2 Adults + 4 Kids) | 3 Days Pass | 255 |
Adult Ticket (18+)
- Access to all event zones
- Entry to tournaments and competitions
- Full immersive gaming experience
Student Ticket (Valid Student ID Required)
- Access to all zones
- Entry to competitions
- Interactive gaming experience
Family Ticket (2 Adults + 4 Kids)
- Kids under 6 enter free
- Access to all event zones
- Entry to tournaments and competitions
- Family-friendly gaming activities
How to Buy Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) Ticket?
- Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net/
- Choose your “Ticket Type”
- Enter the “Number of Ticket”
- Click “Check Out”
- Choose your “Payment Option”
- Click “Submit”
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