What To Know
- With nearly three weeks of citywide gaming action and a blockbuster finale at GameExpo, DEF 2026 is shaping up to be a must-visit event for gamers of all ages.
- At the centre of the action is GameExpo 2026, running from May 22 to 24 at Dubai World Trade Centre, specifically in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3.
- Meanwhile, the DEF Educational Engagement Programme invites schools to participate in workshops, coding challenges and competitions, leading up to DEF Education Day on May 21 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
Gamers, mark your calendars. The fifth edition of the Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF) is officially on the way, promising its biggest and most immersive programme yet. Taking place from May 8 to 24, 2026, the citywide celebration once again cements Dubai’s reputation as a major global gaming hub.
At the centre of the action is GameExpo 2026, running from May 22 to 24 at Dubai World Trade Centre, specifically in Zabeel Halls 2 and 3. Over three packed days, visitors can expect live esports tournaments, hands-on gameplay, brand-new releases, retro classics and large-scale interactive zones.
What’s new in 2026?
This year introduces immersive themed areas including Neo Tokyo District, Battle Arena and Velocity Garage. Across 10 distinct zones, more than 100 gaming consoles and live tournament stages will keep players of all levels engaged.
Aligned with the UAE’s Year of the Family, DEF 2026 places added focus on multi-generational participation. The programme is designed to bring together families, students and creators through shared play, creativity and digital innovation.
Returning highlights include:
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GameExpo
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GameExpo Summit powered by PG Connects
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Play Beyond
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Dubai Cosplay Championship
Education, creativity and LEGO experiences
The Narrows creative district, supported by Dubai Culture, will once again spotlight local and Emirati artists, designers and pop-culture creators. Meanwhile, the DEF Educational Engagement Programme invites schools to participate in workshops, coding challenges and competitions, leading up to DEF Education Day on May 21 at Dubai World Trade Centre.
For the first time, DEF will partner with LEGO Certified Stores to introduce a dedicated LEGO experience, featuring hands-on building challenges aimed at sparking imagination and creativity.
Visitors can also look forward to cosplay showcases, competitive esports tournaments, coding workshops and Minecraft education challenges, making the festival both entertaining and educational.
Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment, described DEF as a strategic platform that continues to attract international talent, developers, investors and fans while accelerating the growth of Dubai’s gaming ecosystem.
With nearly three weeks of citywide gaming action and a blockbuster finale at GameExpo, DEF 2026 is shaping up to be a must-visit event for gamers of all ages.
For more information, visit dubaiesportsfestival.com.
