The new studio will provide co-development services, connecting local developers with Side’s international network of 20 studios across 14 countries, and will focus on fostering innovation and talent development.

Side’s leadership, including CEO Deborah Kirkham, emphasizes the significant growth opportunities in Saudi Arabia’s gaming market, which boasts over 20 million gamers, representing 60% of the population, with a large youth demographic under 35.

Despite regional instability and concerns over human rights issues linked to Savvy’s parent, the Public Investment Fund, Side remains optimistic about the market’s potential and the development of local talent.

Side’s VP of EMEA, Jacob Madsen, and Chief Communications Officer Martin McBride, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership and the region’s potential, highlighting the shared vision to elevate the gaming experience for players and creators.

The collaboration was formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding signed in London on July 10, 2025, with no involvement of funding or ownership stakes from Savvy, which aims to support Side’s entry into the local industry.

McBride noted that the studio in Riyadh will contribute to the ongoing transformation in game development driven by new technologies like AI, fostering innovation and fresh talent.

Savvy’s SVP Nika Nour highlighted the partnership’s goal to improve the gaming experience and cultivate creative professionals in Saudi Arabia, sharing a vision for global industry growth.

Side has successfully expanded globally, including a new studio in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and plans to replicate that success in Riyadh by leveraging its industry experience and established brand.

Side’s CEO emphasized Saudi Arabia’s strategic importance as a key market in the global gaming industry, citing government support and a highly engaged, young audience.

Critics have raised concerns over the partnership due to the PIF’s association with human rights issues, including the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, but Side’s leadership remains focused on the market’s growth potential.

Games services provider Side is set to open a new studio in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, by Q4 2025, in partnership with Savvy Games Group, aiming to support local developers and expand the regional gaming ecosystem.

This partnership seeks to cultivate local talent, enhance creative infrastructure, and align with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 to establish the country as a global gaming and entertainment hub.