Pocket Gamer Connects Jordan Kicks Off with Over 1,500 Attendees, High-Profile Speakers, and Immersive MENA Industry Insights

Pocket Gamer Connects (PGC) Jordan has officially opened its doors, welcoming more than 1,500 industry professionals, developers, and creators for two action-packed days of high-level networking, insightful conference sessions, and groundbreaking discussions. As one of the most anticipated stops on the international games industry conference circuit, the Jordan event has firmly established itself as a vital gathering point for the thriving Middle East and North Africa (MENA) games market, bridging regional talent with global industry giants.

The opening day set a high-powered tone for the conference, featuring keynote addresses and panel discussions led by some of the most influential figures in the global and regional gaming ecosystems. Among the prominent industry leaders heading up the show’s opening talks are Nasser Jaber E of Endless Access, Nour Khrais of Maysalward, Mohamed El Sheakh of Roblox, Saifi Ismail of Yalla Group, and Hazim AlHanbali of Mad Hook, alongside a host of other visionary founders, executives, and developers who are actively shaping the future of interactive entertainment.

Over the course of the two-day event, the comprehensive speaker lineup will feature representatives from some of the biggest names in gaming and technology. Attendees will have the opportunity to hear from experts representing Minecraft, Epic Games, Twin Harbour Interactive, Xsolla, Crazy Games, Istikan Studio, and YallaPlay, among many others. These sessions are designed to provide deep dives into market trends, technical innovations, design philosophies, and publishing strategies, offering invaluable takeaways for studios of all sizes looking to scale their operations both regionally and internationally.

Industry Insights and Networking Opportunities

Beyond the main stage presentations, PGC Jordan has curated a robust schedule tailored to professional growth, skill enhancement, and direct business connections. Central to this mission are two full days of specialized workshops and masterclasses. These sessions are crafted to give attendees practical, hands-on insights into the core crafts of making and marketing video games, covering everything from technical development pipelines and user acquisition strategies to monetization models and community building in emerging markets.

A cornerstone of the Pocket Gamer Connects experience is its dedication to championing independent developers, and the Jordan conference is no exception. The schedule features the renowned Big Indie Pitch, catering to creators across mobile, PC, and console platforms. This unique, speed-dating-style competition gives indie developers the rare opportunity to present their projects directly to panels of industry experts, veteran journalists, and prospective publishers, receiving immediate, constructive feedback and a chance to win vital exposure.

Complementing the pitch competition is the Big Indie Zone, a dedicated exhibition floor where independent creators can showcase their latest games directly to fellow PGC attendees, publishers, and potential investors. This interactive space fosters a vibrant community spirit, allowing smaller studios to demonstrate their creativity and build meaningful partnerships that can help bring their titles to global audiences.

Cultural Excursions and Regional Exploration

True to the holistic conference experience that PGC is known for, the event extends beyond the traditional exhibition halls and seminar rooms. Providing a balance of professional engagement and cultural immersion, an optional post-conference excursion has been organized for November 9th, giving conference delegates the chance to visit Petra, one of the modern wonders of the world.

The carefully planned excursion is designed to offer a seamless and memorable experience for international and local visitors alike. It includes comfortable bus travel directly to the historic archaeological site, accompanied by a comprehensive walking tour led by an expert local guide who will walk delegates through the rich history of the ancient Nabataean city. To ensure a comfortable and enjoyable day, the package also includes a traditional buffet lunch and refreshments provided throughout the excursion, allowing industry peers to network in one of the most breathtaking settings on earth.

For those who have not yet secured their place at the conference, tickets for PGC Jordan remain available, allowing late-registering professionals to tap into the vibrant atmosphere and extensive networking opportunities currently unfolding at the venue.

A Broader Look at the MENA Region

The timing of PGC Jordan coincides with a period of unprecedented momentum and economic growth within the Middle East and North Africa games industry. Recognizing the rapid ascent of the region as a major global gaming hub, the organizers have rolled out significant complementary resources to support industry professionals, investors, and analysts tracking the market.

Ahead of the conference, organizers published a comprehensive, free-to-download report on the MENA region’s games industry. Produced in association with global video game commerce company Xsolla, the report provides critical data, market analytics, and strategic insights into the ever-growing regional hub, mapping out the trajectories of key markets and highlighting emerging growth sectors.

In tandem with the market report, organizers also launched the highly anticipated Top 30 MENA Game Makers 2026 list. This prestigious index profiles the most exciting and innovative developers, studios, and publishers currently operating within the region, celebrating the creative forces and business pioneers who are driving the MENA gaming landscape forward on the international stage. As PGC Jordan continues its packed schedule of talks, workshops, and networking events, these reports and profiles serve as a timely reminder of the immense potential and vibrant talent driving the region’s interactive entertainment sector today.