Merak Capital signs MoU with HP to boost Saudi Arabia’s games and esports economy 

• HP’s Gaming Garage to be integrated into the Exel Gaming Accelerator for developer training.
• Pilot programs will roll out with hackathons, showcases, and global studio collaborations.
• MoU supports Vision 2030’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy and NDF’s ecosystem goals.

Merak Capital has penned a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with HP to strengthen Saudi Arabia's games and esports economy. 

As part of the MoU, HP’s Gaming Garage will be integrated into the Exel Gaming Accelerator to train founders and developers in game design, coding, AI, cybersecurity, and more.

Over the next year, HP and Exel by Merak will also launch pilot programs for Saudi youth, combining hackathons, showcases, and collaborations with global studios to build market-ready skills and foster entrepreneurship.

The partnership will offer events, workshops, mentorship, and community programs to create a sustainable talent pipeline, empower local creators, and foster an inclusive industry culture.

Laying the foundation

The MoU supports Vision 2030’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy and the NDF’s efforts to grow Saudi Arabia’s gaming ecosystem through talent development, startup support, and industry collaboration.

“The partnership with HP marks a pivotal step in our journey to position Saudi Arabia as a global powerhouse in gaming and esports," said Merak Capital VP of innovation platform and head of Exel Faisal Sedrani. 

“By merging HP’s innovative programs with the Exel Gaming Accelerator, we are creating unprecedented opportunities for Saudi talent to learn, experiment, and innovate. It gives Exel’s entrepreneurs the tools, resources, and international networks they need to compete, and lead, on the world stage. 

“Together, we are laying the foundation for a thriving, future-ready gaming industry that will drive creativity, economic growth, and global recognition for the Kingdom.”

HP Saudi Arabia managing director Fadle Saad commented: “Our collaboration with Exel by Merak is about more than skills development; it is about creating pathways for young Saudis to turn their passion for gaming into real professional careers. 

He added: “By strengthening the local gaming ecosystem and empowering the next generation of digital creators to train and excel, HP is contributing to the country’s Future of Work.”

Learn more about the MENA games market at Pocket Gamer Connects Aqaba on November 8th to 9th, 2025.