Moscow Game Hub opens with pitch to MENA developers seeking global growth

Russia has opened the Moscow Game Hub, described as the world’s only full-cycle gaming and animation development facility, offering end-to-end production support for international studios including those from the Middle East.

The hub was unveiled on 28 November during Moscow International Game Week and brings together developers from more than 20 countries.

Moscow unveils global gaming hub

The state-of-the-art complex provides motion-capture and facial-capture studios, photogrammetry labs for 3D asset creation, sound recording facilities, screening rooms and an esports arena for testing and tournaments. It also features coworking spaces, conference areas and a high-performance data processing centre to support technical requirements throughout the development cycle. Alongside production infrastructure, resident companies can access mentorship, publishing partnerships and consulting on global market entry.

Middle East studios are being encouraged to apply for residency. Successful applicants receive preferential rent and support entering the Russian market, where an estimated 88 million people play video games. Industry data indicates the Russian gaming market generates approximately US$4.5 billion annually.

Development costs in Russia are estimated to be three times lower than in the United States, twice as low as in Europe and 1.5 times lower than in Cyprus.

The project also promotes Moscow as an attractive relocation destination for creative and technical teams, citing efficient public transport, strong healthcare infrastructure, high security standards and extensive cultural amenities.

The hub’s opening drew attendees from studios and industry associations in the UAE, Saudi Arabia, India, Pakistan, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Serbia, Argentina and Chile.

Representatives from the MENA region included Mustafa Yaya, CTO and co-founder of Blackburne Games, and regional figures such as MJ Fahmi from Qatar’s Digital Dunes, Wael Elemam from Saudisoft.Co and Ziad Toukhy of Rawa Games.

More than 40 companies have already joined the hub. Organisers say the model provides an integrated environment for developers seeking both production capability and international promotion. Moscow officials highlighted the city’s young gaming demographic, noting that 73 per cent of players are under 24.

Gulnara Agamova, head of the Creative Industries Agency leading the project, said: “Developing the gaming industry is a key priority for Moscow’s Creative Industries Agency, and MENA region represents a strategic partner in this effort. MENA companies are our priority partners. The entire game creation cycle from concept to international market release is now concentrated here in Moscow, creating a platform where Middle Eastern and Russian studios can collaborate, co-develop, and access each other’s markets.”

Moscow Game Hub will offer support for studios at all stages, from concept development and prototyping to marketing, monetisation and investment preparation. The facility is also positioned as a platform for participation in international exhibitions and forums.

Moscow International Game Week, held from 27 to 30 November, showcased Russian industry capabilities while promoting new global partnerships.