Riyadh - Sharikat Mubasher: Exel by Merak, a 16-week accelerator designed to foster early-stage gaming startups, concluded its inaugural Demo Day, gathering key founders, investors, and leaders from the Saudi gaming industry.

During the event, 17 gaming startups showcased their growth potential in the presence of over 450 attendees from the gaming ecosystem, according to a recent statement.

Participating startups have access to up to $5.1 million in investment, with additional follow-up funding opportunities already underway.

The startups featured during the Demo Day are: Copa Fantasy, Twenty Ninety Creative, Symmetric Studio, Dafluffs Games, Sheba Joy, SuperBullet Studios, AstraValle, FitNot Games, Evolite Studio, Rojeh Video Games, HYS Games, LIVA Interactive, Eshi Games, Hyena Hon, Dreaming Door Studios, Classy Games Studio, and Phys.

Throughout the program, founders refined their businesses, engaged in workshops and mentorship sessions, and prepared to expand globally.

Faisal Sedrani, Leader of Exel by Merak, stated that the Demo Day marks a significant milestone in Saudi Arabia’s journey to establish itself as a global gaming hub.

Exel by Merak opened applications for the first cohort in January, enabling startups to refine their offerings, scale their businesses, and unlock investment opportunities through a structured program.

This SAR 306 million accelerator aims to empower the next generation of gaming startups, welcoming both Saudi-based and relocated international startups. It targets game development studios, gaming technologies, publishing platforms, and other innovative services related to gaming.