About GameForward

GameForward is Dubai's premier gaming accelerator, brought to you by Dubai SME and powered by Antler. We're building the next generation of gaming studios in the MENA region.

This game jam is your entry point into the ecosystem.

The Challenge

You have 72 hours to create a playable prototype based on the theme: Between Sand and Skyline

Think contrast. Think duality. Think Dubai—where tradition meets future, desert meets city, heritage meets innovation.

Timeline

• Start: February 13, 2026 @ 12:00 PM GMT+4
• End: February 15, 2026 @ 11:59 PM GMT+4
• Duration: 72 hours

What You Get

Top submissions will receive:

• Showcase at our exclusive GameForward Suhoor event with investors and industry leaders
• Feature placement on Dubai Economy & Tourism website
• Feature placement on Dubai Esports Festival platform
• Priority consideration for our 8-week GameForward Residency Program (starting March 30)

Rules

• Solo developers and teams welcome
• Build your game from scratch during the 72-hour window
• Must be playable (any genre, any engine)
• Open to developers across the MENA region
• Submit via itch.io before deadline

Who Should Join

Aspiring game developers, technical creators, students, hobbyists, and anyone ready to prove what they can build in 72 hours.

No studio required. Just skills and drive.