Recently, one of the biggest game publishers in the world, Electronic Arts (EA), surprised everyone with a historic step. They’ve reached an agreement for the company’s sale for an eye watering $55 billion (£41 billion). The $40 per share purchase price represents a significant 25% premium on EA’s existing market valuation. This equates to a valuation of the company at $210/share. The acquisition consortium includes Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF), Silver Lake, and Jared Kushner’s Affinity Partners.
This deal is a major milestone for Saudi Arabia. As a part of this push, it seeks to deepen its influence and reach in the booming gaming space. Since then, the kingdom has played an increasingly assertive role in gaming investments. The acquisition of EA adds a prestigious feather to Saudi Arabia’s cap, particularly as it continues to host major gaming events, including the eSports World Cup. In addition, Saudi Arabia will host the first Olympic esports Games in 2027.
For 42 years, Electronic Arts has ruled the gaming industry. They have published millions of classic titles and developed relationships with world-renowned franchises such as Harry Potter and James Bond. The company’s wide-ranging portfolio, along with its well-known brand and reputation, creates a strong asset appealing to investors.
The Saudi investment fund is causing a stir in the gaming industry. In Pokémon’s case, it was parent company Bandai Namco, who in March 2025 purchased Niantic’s gaming division for $3.5 billion, securing rights to control the massively successful mobile game Pokémon Go. This acquisition is another example of Saudi Arabia’s ambitions to increase its presence and power on the world’s gaming stage.
Having secured taking Electronic Arts private, new Executive Chairman Andrew Wilson was heralding very bright horizons for Electronic Arts under slightly altered ownership.
“Together with our partners, we will create transformative experiences to inspire generations to come.” – Andrew Wilson
Even with this progress, Saudi Arabia’s ascendance in the gaming industry has not come free from controversy. A 2019 UN report highlighted serious human rights concerns, stating that “the state of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is responsible” for the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. These concerns have led many to wonder how much Saudi Arabia should be allowed to participate in global business ventures.