The curtain rises on Games of the Future 2025

It’s the ultimate phygital showcase

Phygital sport is typically played in two stages: Digital play on PC, console or mobile, followed by physical challenges, in the same discipline, completed live on the field of play. Success requires both gaming skills and athletic ability – an approach that appeals to younger, game-mad audiences while reinforcing the value of fitness and teamwork.

Exciting disciplines, huge prize money

The 2025 edition features 11 disciplines – played on globally recognised gaming platforms – and a multimillion-dollar prize fund.

Core events:

• Phygital Football powered by ADNOC – US$600,000
• Phygital Basketball.3on3 FreeStyle – US$400,000
• Phygital Shooter.CS-2 – US$150,000
• Phygital Dancing.Just Dance – US$50,000

Expanded programme:

• MOBA PC.Dota 2 – US$125,000
• MOBA Mobile.MLBB – US$900,000
• Battle Royale.Featuring Fortnite – US$700,000
• Battle of Robots – US$400,000
• Phygital Drone Racing – US$250,000
• Phygital Fighting.FATAL FURY: City of the Wolves – US$150,000
• VR-game HADO Global Invitation – US$50,000

A complete spectator experience

The event will be hosted at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), one of the region’s largest and most versatile venues. With more than 150,000m² of space, ADNEC will accommodate:

• Esports theatres
• Phygital competition arenas
• Drone racing tracks
• Robotics combat zones
• Media centres and mixed zones
• Interactive fan areas and cultural exhibits

Organizers expect thousands of spectators and participants, supported by international media, broadcasters and content creators. The previous edition generated over 3 billion online views, and a similar reach is anticipated for 2025.

Top-flight media facilities

A dedicated press centre, streamlined accreditation system and multiple mixed-zone opportunities will support global coverage. Large numbers of print, broadcasting and online media will be on site – as well as influencers and streamers – all of whom will have access to competition areas, fan zones and athlete interactions.

World-class organisation

ASPIRE is the official Local Delivery Authority and is leading the coordination of the event to ensure an exceptional experience throughout the tournament. Ethara, a regional leader in live event operations, is the official Event Delivery Partner and will manage promotion, venue transformation and commercial partnerships.

Government bodies – including the UAE Ministry of Sport and national federations – are closely involved in athlete development, community engagement and competition readiness. Local teams will compete in several disciplines.

Culture and community

Alongside sport, visitors will experience a cultural programme featuring exhibitions, live performances and heritage-based storytelling curated by Emirati creators.

With its mix of physical action, digital competition and technological innovation, GOTF 2025 will be a major showcase for the UAE – and an opportunity for other governments and sporting bodies to witness the future of sport.

For more details, visit the Games of the Future website.