Gamers8, one of the world’s biggest esports tournaments has begun in Al Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia with a total prize pool of $45 million.

According to foreign media, running for eight weeks, until the end of August, the festival will host 15 elite tournaments from 12 top titles, rock the concert stage at Mohammed Abdu Arena with an electrifying line-up of global music stars and delight millions of visitors with entertainment zones and a raft of family-friendly activities.  As many as 391 top players from 113 international teams from 61 countries are participating, including Pakistan, Japan, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Thailand, Peru, France, the Philippines, Australia, Germany, and other countries.

The opening ceremony of Gamers 8, the Land of Heroes, was held at Riyadh Boulevard City; it was followed by a press conference at a dedicated media center, where journalists and media representatives were welcomed.

Speaking at the conference were Turki Alfawzan, CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation, and Ahmed Albishri, Deputy CEO of the Saudi Esports Federation.

"Gamers8 represents a vital step toward our grand vision of becoming a global gaming hub," said Alfawzan.

Gamers8: The Land of Heroes will host: Fortnite, Tekken 7 Nations Cup, PUBG Mobile World Invitational, Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege, Dota 2, StarCraft II, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS: GO), Rocket League, PUBG Global Series 2, three FIFAe tournaments, and Street Fighter 6.

 "With a remarkable prize pool exceeding $45 million, triple that of last year, the festival sets a new standard in the industry," said Alfawzan.

"We are breaking records and pushing boundaries to pave the way for the future of gaming on a global scale.

Our theme – ‘The Land of Heroes’ – represents Saudi Arabia as the ultimate destination for gamers from all corners of the world. Within the bounds of this extraordinary event, participants will discover a world filled with opportunities and endless possibilities" he added.

The worldwide renowned festival is bringing the virtual world of esports and gaming into the physical realm of Riyadh. The big date blasts off a superb summer in Riyadh featuring the biggest esports competitions, live concerts with local, regional, and international names, as well as festivals, shows, community gaming, education platforms, and fun-filled activities for all ages.

Gamers8: The Land of Heroes concludes with the Next World Forum, a gaming and esports event held at the Four Seasons Hotel Riyadh, at Kingdom Center, on August 30-31, which brings together sector leaders and experts from around the world.