Saudi Arabia’s Exel by Merak Accelerator has invested USD 5.1 million in 17 gaming startups as part of its inaugural cohort, with each company receiving USD 300,000 in equity funding, mentorship, and industry support.
The accelerator’s first batch was chosen from over 300 global applications, underscoring Saudi Arabia’s rapidly expanding role as a global hub for gaming innovation. During the Demo Day, participating studios showcased original titles inspired by local stories, designed with world-class standards and backed by scalable business models.
“The Demo Day is not only an opportunity to showcase the next gaming talent, but it also signals to the world that Saudi Arabia is a global hub for game studios, not just a market for consuming games,” said Faisal Sedrani, Vice President – Innovation Platform at Merak Capital and Head of Exel.
Backed by Merak Capital’s USD 80 million gaming fund and supported institutionally by the National Development Fund (NDF) in collaboration with the Social Development Bank (SDB), Exel delivers a comprehensive support model for gaming startups. This includes structured equity investment, legal and relocation assistance, and market readiness services.
Startups also gain access to leading technology partners such as Microsoft, Huawei, and AWS, providing them with the tools to scale their businesses globally. By combining investment, mentorship, and relocation support, Exel aims to nurture a sustainable pipeline of Saudi game studios ready to compete on the world stage and further strengthen the Kingdom’s position as a global gaming hub.
