AD Gaming, the entity driving Abu Dhabi’s fast-growing gaming industry, has signed a partnership agreement with Attarius Network, a local crypto and blockchain company.

The deal aims to bring blockchain solutions to the emirate’s game developers – the first in the region.

With a focus on developing blockchain gaming, Attarius Network will build an all-in-one NFT ecosystem for the gaming industry and digital artists, a statement said.

The move comes as AD Gaming continues to provide gaming firms in Abu Dhabi with the tools they need to thrive.

Through the partnership with Attarius Network, AD Gaming said it will be able to strengthen the soft and hard infrastructure of Abu Dhabi gaming sector.

It added that the agreement will add value for both gaming businesses and gamers across the entire world from Abu Dhabi by integrating blockchain platforms, digital assets, and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) into the gaming industry.

Attarius will help game developers in Abu Dhabi build their games on the blockchain, create game tokens and NFTs, provide a launchpad for game developers to launch their game projects, and subsequently manage the blockchain ecosystem.

Gaming is set to see rapid growth in Abu Dhabi.

For gamers, blockchain technologies will enable games to offer ‘play-to-earn’ options, monetising their gameplay through the in-game exchange of NFTs or the completion of objectives in exchange for cryptocurrencies or tokenised in-game resources.

James Hartt, director of strategic initiatives and business development at AD Gaming, said: “Play to earn gaming based on blockchain technology is a major trend within the industry and has seen a significant amount of funding across the globe.

“As a world-leading destination for gaming businesses of all sizes, we are proud to offer a comprehensive ecosystem that allows game developers and publishers to capitalise on both the traditional and innovative segments of the gaming sector. We look forward to working closely with Attarius Network to connect gaming companies with cutting-edge blockchain technologies.”

Hussain Alomaeirah, co-founder, chairman and managing director at Attarius Network, added: “Together with AD Gaming, we will be providing our blockchain expertise to local talents and studios, supporting the success of their projects through the integration of blockchain technologies, smart contracts, NFT’s and cryptocurrency.

“By educating gaming businesses on the benefits of incorporating blockchain and NFTs to their titles we will help to guide the next phase of growth in this exciting sector.”

AD Gaming is a collaborative initiative that is currently supported by twofour54, Unity Technologies, Flash Entertainment, UAE Pro League, Emirates Esports Association, the Media Zone Authority, as well as Attarius Network.