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 2023, Abu Dhabi-based Red Dunes Games entered the Tokyo Game Show without a dedicated booth, instead opting to meet industry professionals and establish themselves. This year, the company's booth in Hall 7 at Makuhari Messe is among the largest in its section, featuring numerous playable games and developers from various countries.
UAE Ambassador to Japan Shihab Al Faheem notes Red Dunes' growth over the past five years, with the company hosting multiple companies and showcasing its UAE roots through the booth's design, inspired by Mina Zayed souqs. The booth features nine games, including Port of Jumanah, Zozo and the Lost Dreams, Nightmare Circus, Blades of Mirage, LightSup!, Katuba's Poacher, and Samurai Pizza Cats: Blast from the Past!
The company's response to the Japanese market was unexpected, with one of their titles becoming one of the top anticipated games under Red Dunes. Al Jneibi emphasizes the company's diversity in working on games, while Al Darmaki hints at larger projects in the future. The company's growing ties with international IP holders were highlighted by Yas Marina Circuit's inclusion in Gran Turismo 7.
Al Faheem emphasizes the UAE's growing influence in the gaming industry, citing the addition of the Yas Marina Circuit to Polyphony Digital's racing game. The company's shift towards smaller, more manageable game projects appeals to Red Dunes' focus on playability and game mechanics. As the gaming industry evolves, Al Jneibi believes the distinction between independent and blockbuster development is becoming less relevant, as long as the central idea of a game resonates with a diverse audience.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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