KARACHI: Pakistan will host a major international esports tournament in 2026, marking a step forward for the country’s fast-growing competitive gaming industry.
Organisers announced during the 2025 PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) Grand Finals in Bangkok that Pakistan will stage the 2026 PUBG Mobile Global Open Season 2, featuring a prize pool of $500,000. The decision signals growing international recognition of Pakistan as an emerging market for mobile esports.
Mobile gaming has expanded steadily in Pakistan over recent years, driven by high smartphone penetration and a young population. PUBG Mobile, in particular, has developed a wide following across cities and income groups, evolving from casual play into organised competition with structured teams and regular regional tournaments.
Pakistani players have become more visible in South Asian competitions, with teams gradually gaining experience on the international circuit. At the 2025 PMGC, Pakistan’s representative reached the Last Chance stage, underscoring incremental progress in an increasingly competitive global field.
Hosting a global event is expected to boost local engagement by bringing live esports production to domestic audiences, including on-site broadcasts, analysis and fan activities. It is also likely to generate short-term economic activity through event production, media coverage and international visitors, benefiting sectors such as hospitality and technology services.
Beyond the immediate commercial impact, policymakers and industry participants see esports as part of the broader digital economy, offering employment opportunities and international exposure for young professionals, content creators and event organisers.
Mobile gaming’s relatively low barriers to entry have also widened participation beyond major urban centres, helping to expand the talent pool and support the development of professional pathways within esports.
With the 2026 tournament, Pakistan aims to position itself more firmly on the global esports map, leveraging digital entertainment to enhance city branding, cultural exchange and participation in the international gaming economy.
