Dubai’s flagship gaming event, the Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF), will now be held from May 22 to June 7, 2026, with organisers promising a longer, more expansive citywide celebration of esports, gaming and digital creativity.
The revised schedule extends the festival’s duration to over two weeks, aligning it with the Eid holiday period and allowing residents and visitors more time to take part in a broader lineup of events, competitions and family-friendly activities. The move is expected to enhance accessibility and participation across age groups.
A major highlight of DEF 2026 will be the return of GameExpo, set to run from June 5 to 7. Early-bird tickets, starting at AED 10, are already on sale, offering access to three days of gaming, competitions and immersive experiences. For the first time, attendees will also benefit from free parking for up to six hours.
The festival is organised by the Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism. Over the years, DEF has grown in scale and ambition, supporting Dubai’s push to build a robust digital and creative economy.
Introducing a new element this year, the Education & Gaming Summit will take place on June 4. The summit aims to connect high school students, universities and industry leaders, offering insights into career opportunities within the gaming sector.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “The new dates provide the opportunity for Dubai Esports & Games Festival to extend its reach and impact even further, meaning more people can both enjoy and be part of this citywide celebration. By aligning with a longer holiday period and making DEF even more accessible and convenient, we are curating an inclusive and engaging experience for everyone.”
DEF 2026 is expected to bring together global creators, gamers and fans, reinforcing Dubai’s position as a key international hub for gaming and interactive entertainment. Alongside returning attractions such as GameExpo, Play Beyond and the Dubai Cosplay Championship, this year’s edition will introduce new experiences including Neo Tokyo District for anime enthusiasts, Battle Arena with maze-style gameplay, and Velocity Garage featuring high-intensity racing simulations.
In line with the UAE’s ‘Year of the Family’, the festival will place a stronger focus on youth engagement and multi-generational participation, with activities designed to encourage families to explore gaming and digital culture together.
