Abu Dhabi's Red Dunes Games makes a bigger play for Japan at Tokyo Game Show 2026
A few years ago, Red Dunes Games arrived at the Tokyo Game Show looking for introductions. In 2023, the Abu Dhabi company did not have a stand of its own. Founders Sultan Al Darmaki and Mohamed Al Jneibi spent their time meeting developers and publishers, and trying to establish themselves in one of gaming’s most important markets. At Tokyo Game Show 2026 , it is considerably harder to miss them.…
In recent years, Abu Dhabi-based Red Dunes Games has made significant strides in the global gaming industry, particularly at the Tokyo Game Show (TGS) 2026. The company's presence this year is much more prominent compared to its initial participation a few years ago. Red Dunes has expanded its booth in Hall 7 at Makuhari Messe, featuring banks of screens, playable games, and developers from various countries.
The company's founders, Sultan Al Darmaki and Mohamed Al Jneibi, emphasize the importance of their UAE roots in their booth design, which reflects hospitality, friendliness, and wonder inspired by Abu Dhabi's souqs.
Red Dunes announced nine games for TGS 2026, including Port of Jumanah, Zozo and the Lost Dreams, and Nightmare Circus. The booth showcases a diverse portfolio, such as Blades of Mirage developed with Indonesian studio Agate, LightSup! from BugBlio Studio, and Katuba's Poacher by South Korean solo developer Joe Yu. A 2D action RPG, Samurai Pizza Cats: Blast from the Past, based on the 1990 Tatsunoko Production anime Kyatto Ninden Teyandee, has garnered significant attention in Japan, exceeding expectations.
The company's growth is attributed to its focus on playability and game mechanics, allowing them to cater to a wide range of audiences. Red Dunes is poised to take on larger projects, leveraging its growing network and increasing capabilities. The company is also collaborating with international IPs, as evidenced by Yas Marina Circuit's inclusion in Gran Turismo 7.
This collaboration took about two and a half years of work with Polyphony Digital, supported by Abu Dhabi Gaming and UAE leadership. Al Darmaki notes a shift in the types of games presented by larger publishers, with many returning to smaller, more manageable titles that revive old IP's, while Red Dunes remains committed to playability and innovative game mechanics.
Written by urgent.news from The National UAE's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
