Two distinct Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) were announced this week in Jordan and Oman, signalling continued governmental and private sector efforts to develop national esports infrastructures.
In Amman, Jordan, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and JEG Esports formalised a cooperation agreement. The MoU was signed by H.E. Eng. Sami Smeirat, Minister of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship, and Eng. Mohammed Kanakri, Founder and CEO of JEG Esports.
The agreement outlines a broad scope of collaboration, focusing on developing specialised training programs for individuals and entities in the esports sector. These programs will concentrate on modern technologies such as artificial intelligence, virtual and augmented reality, and digital content creation. Further joint efforts will include testing and evaluating innovative digital applications and games, organising local and international tournaments, and launching awareness campaigns to highlight esports as a promising economic sector.
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At the announcement, Minister Smeirat stated that the partnership is part of the implementation plan for the Jordanian National Strategy for Games and Esports (2023–2027). He emphasised, “This step is a crucial foundation for opening new avenues for Jordanian youth in innovation and creativity, while offering promising economic opportunities in the sector.”
Mohammed Kanakri of JEG Esports commented that “JEG Esports will leverage its 15+ years of experience in organizing tournaments and nurturing Jordanian talent to support the national digital economy and strengthen Jordan’s position as a regional hub for esports and related technologies.”
In a separate development, the Oman Committee for Games & Esports and Nova Technology & Investment have also entered into a strategic partnership. The MoU was signed by Eng. Saba Al Busaidi, representing the Oman Committee, and Deputy CEO Saba Al Sinani, representing Nova.
The stated aims of the Omani agreement are to develop and elevate the esports and gaming sector within the Sultanate, empower Omani talents to compete on global stages, and create new opportunities for players and the digital community. A representative from Nova indicated that the collaboration reflects a commitment to innovation and youth empowerment, aligning with the national Oman Vision 2040 which focuses on diversifying the economy and developing a knowledge-based society.
The simultaneous announcements from Jordan and Oman highlight a growing trend of formalised public-private initiatives aimed at structuring and professionalising the esports industry within the Middle East.
