Grand Theft Auto V set for release in Saudi Arabia after long-awaited approval, expected imminently.
**Grand Theft Auto V Set to Debut in UAE and Saudi Arabia**
In a groundbreaking move, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia have officially announced that Grand Theft Auto V (GTA V) will be released in their markets on July 17, 2025. The news, revealed by the General Authority of Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia, marks a significant step forward in the acceptance of western entertainment in these countries.
The UAE Media Council has given GTA V a 21+ rating, reflecting its mature content. This makes it the highest age limit that could be applied, acknowledging the game's themes suitable for adults only. The game will be available for purchase both physically and digitally.
PlayStation's social media account for the Middle East has confirmed the rating for the UAE release, while RockstarINTEL, a popular gaming news platform, made the announcement. The post ends with the hashtag #GameRating and roughly translates to: "Enjoy the experience of the famous game Grand Theft Auto V & Grand Theft Auto Online."
The trend of increased openness to western entertainment in Saudi Arabia is evident, with events such as the release of GTA V, once considered unthinkable, now becoming a reality. This shift is also reflected in the annual Formula One race, WWE live events, and regular big boxing matches held in the country.
However, it remains unclear if the game will be censored in any way for the UAE release. A post on RockstarINTEL includes a warning: "Ensure the game is suitable for your age group," but no specific content modifications have been mentioned. The game will be available in its current enhanced form, which includes features like ray tracing, HDR lighting, and improved textures.
The Esports World Cup, a professional gaming event featuring top players from Call of Duty, Valorant, PUBG, and Counter Strike 2, has already taken place in Saudi Arabia, indicating a growing acceptance of gaming culture in the region. The post on RockstarINTEL also includes a hashtag: General Authority for #MediaRegulation.
The release of GTA V in Saudi Arabia and the UAE follows the successful launch of the Esports World Cup in the region, suggesting a positive outlook for the potential release of future western games in these countries. The news is likely to be welcomed by the gaming community in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, offering them the opportunity to experience one of the most popular video games of all time.
- The enhancement of GTA V's graphics, such as ray tracing, HDR lighting, and improved textures, will be available for gamers in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, promising a visually immersive experience.
- The outlook for the release of future western games in the UAE and Saudi Arabia appears positive, given the successful launch of both GTA V and the Esports World Cup in the region.
- Microsoft, the developers of the Xbox gaming console, and laptop manufacturers may observe increased interest in gaming products due to the upcoming release of GTA V in the UAE and Saudi Arabia, potentially boosting the entertainment landscape in these countries.
