Dubai's Gaming Merch Scene is Taking Over GameExpo at The Narrows

More than 75 Dubai-based small and medium-sized businesses are showcasing locally made gaming-inspired products at The Narrows, a dedicated marketplace within GameExpo, the flagship public event of the Dubai Esports & Games Festival (DEF) 2026. Organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), part of the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism, and curated with support from Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, the space brings together creators working across gaming, design and art. Visitors can browse limited-edition prints, independently produced merchandise, collectibles and custom creations, all developed by homegrown businesses. Beyond retail, The Narrows is intended to provide SMEs with opportunities to reach new audiences and connect with the wider gaming and creative communities. “GameExpo provides a valuable platform for talent, entrepreneurs, and creative businesses to showcase their work and innovations, connect with industry professionals, and engage with a wider audience," Shaima Rashed Al Suwaidi, CEO of the Arts, Design and Literature Sector at Dubai Culture, said. "By creating opportunities for collaboration, visibility, and growth, the event contributes to the development of future-focused creative sectors and supports Dubai’s position as a global centre for culture, an incubator for creativity, and a thriving hub for talent.”  Among the participants is Dubai Sound Academy, which is using the platform to introduce visitors to DJ training and give students the opportunity to perform live. According to founder Adam Long, the event has generated strong engagement from attendees and offered the academy its first opportunity to participate in GameExpo. The initiative also aligns with broader efforts under the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to strengthen the city's position as a centre for innovation, entrepreneurship and digital talent. GameExpo itself spans 10 zones featuring gaming experiences, cosplay, esports competitions and immersive entertainment. Visitors can also take part in live tournaments scheduled for Sunday. Tickets start from AED 29, while visitors who purchased tickets through Platinum List are eligible to enter a draw to win a Jetour T2 Luxury Plus, courtesy of Elite Group Holding. Attendees can also access six hours of complimentary parking at Dubai World Trade Centre's Mustaqbal Parking and Exhibition Street Parking. Running from May 22nd to June 7th, DEF 2026 is presented by du and supported by Amazon, Dubai Culture, Jetour UAE and talabat. Since launching in 2022, the annual festival has expanded to include esports tournaments, educational initiatives and industry-focused platforms alongside its public events.