The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) now constitutes nearly 20% of the global workforce in blockchain gaming. This marks the largest regional shift in the industry's history.
The Blockchain Game Alliance's 2025 State of the Industry Report, launched at the Global Blockchain Show Abu Dhabi on December 10, 2025, highlights a dramatic shift in global talent. MENA increased from only 0.5% in 2021 to 19.8% in 2025—the fastest growth since measurements began.
Explosive growth changes regional demographics
BGA's fifth annual survey signals a fundamental rebalancing of the blockchain gaming landscape. Western markets are shrinking, while other regions accelerate digital infrastructure and strengthen regulatory frameworks.
The survey collected 506 valid responses in 2025, fewer than the 623 in 2024. Market contractions in the West contributed to this decline. However, emerging regions showed real growth: Africa now accounts for 5.5% of the professionals in the industry, and Latin America 11.9%, indicating a clear shift away from traditional dominance by Asia and Europe.
Female participation reached a record 22.7%, up from 17.3% in 2024. The highest concentration was among professionals aged 25 to 44. Youth-driven expansion continues in MENA and Africa. Note that 40% of African respondents are under 25 years old.
Professionals now rank regulatory clarity as the most important factor for the future of blockchain games. A full 64.4% expect that policy and regulation will positively shape the industry. This shows increasing belief that legitimacy depends on clear legal frameworks.
MENA countries have been quick to develop regulations. The United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, and Morocco are piloting or regulating stablecoin frameworks. This positions the region as a leader in payment innovation. For example, Oman experienced a 700% increase in digital payments in one year. Digital wallets now account for 74% of transactions and support blockchain-based economies with advanced financial systems.
The launch of high-quality games ranked second among key drivers at 29.5%. This shows a shift away from previous speculative models. Sustainable, revenue-driven business models ranked third at 27.5%. Stablecoins received 27.3% support as tools for cross-border payments and transactions in games.
Studios have adopted product-first approaches after significant market contraction. Blockchain game funding plummeted from over $10 billion in 2022 to $293 million in 2025. Studios are now focusing on real revenue rather than token speculation. Guild participation fell from 20.7% in 2022 to 7.9% in 2025, after unsustainable models collapsed.
Fraud, lack of funding, and AI appear as the biggest threats.
Even with drive, the industry faces serious challenges. Fraud and deception remain the biggest threats, mentioned by 36.0% of respondents. Rug pulls and exploitative schemes continue to hinder broad adoption, especially for risk-averse gamers.
Lack of funding is another challenge, ranking second at 32.6%. Capital shortages have led to 80% to 93% of startups shutting down since 2021. The largest venture capital firms have paused new investments. Studios must now prove profitability and sustainability.
Artificial intelligence presents both opportunities and risks. While 46% see AI as a growth driver for marketing or content production, 38.9% are concerned about AI-based exploitation. Concerns include more cheating, generic content, and potential loss of creative authenticity.
Digital infrastructure strengthens MENA's competitiveness.
MENA's growth is due to more than just pro-innovation regulation. The region's digitally native population has high financial literacy and risk appetite, crucial for blockchain adoption. Nearly 45% of MENA traders start with demo accounts, signaling high demand for financial education. Regional clients have strong hit rates and show the world's highest risk appetite.
Modern payment systems are central. Many countries have introduced real-time settlement, automated clearing houses, and mobile platforms. These solutions reduce transaction costs and shorten settlement times, enabling cross-border value transfers crucial for blockchain gaming economies.
The largest studios are keeping up. BGA respondents include employees from Ubisoft, Square Enix, Cointelegraph, Polygon Labs, DMCC Dubai, and leading financial institutions in the region. Traditional gaming and blockchain companies are moving closer together. As publishers explore Web3, they integrate new technologies without letting go of proven models.
Globally, stablecoins processed $27.6 trillion in 2024, with MENA leading in payment innovation for private use. The region's focus on regulation, infrastructure, and user expertise gives it a strong starting point as blockchain games move from niche to mainstream.
The industry navigates from downturn to upturn in 2026.
Web3 token prices fell 90% to 95% from previous peaks. Studios are moving away from token-driven models. They now prefer traditional revenues with blockchain elements. Although many projects failed, those that survive show stronger fundamentals. Studios with solid intellectual property and sustainable economics attract investors after two years of tight capital access.
MENA's rise comes as the sector matures. Developers in the region benefit from stable regulation, diversified revenue, and capital from institutional investors and government funds.
Looking toward 2026, the industry's gaze turns to whether quality game launches can deliver the desired results. MENA's infrastructure, talent, and regulatory environments provide a competitive edge. However, broad success will depend on creating games that people choose for entertainment value—not just economic incentives. The coming year will show if MENA can fulfill the promise as a growth engine for blockchain games.
