The recent collaboration between Doha Film Institute and Media City Qatar has led to the successful hosting of the “Geekdom Game Development Workshop” in Doha, Qatar. This workshop was aimed at fostering creative development among the youth of Qatar and strengthening the foundation of a thriving creative industry in the country. The workshop, conducted in partnership with COREGAME and powered by Media City Qatar, took place from August 12 to August 29, 2024, at Doha Film Institute’s headquarters. It consisted of 12 immersive sessions covering essential topics such as game development, game design, gameplay elements, animation, and more.
Industry experts from Geekdom and COREGAME Technology Solutions delivered the workshop’s modules, providing practical lessons and guidance to participants. The interactive sessions were designed to help aspiring young creatives become familiar with industry-standard software like Unity, Visual Studio Code, and Aseprite. Participants like Thani Al-Shibani shared their enthusiasm and passion for game development, expressing how the workshop inspired them to pursue a future in the industry. This hands-on experience gave them the opportunity to turn their passion for gaming into a tangible reality.
Thair Khaled Al Anani, Director of Business Development at Media City Qatar, emphasized the importance of nurturing creative talent among the youth to thrive in the digital landscape. The “Geekdom Game Development Workshop” is aligned with Qatar’s National Development Strategy and is a testament to Media City Qatar’s commitment to empowering young people with the skills and knowledge needed for success. The workshop showcased the creativity and passion of the participants, laying the foundation for future initiatives that support the growth of creative industries in Qatar.
Game development plays a crucial role in the creative industries, blending art, technology, and storytelling to engage global audiences. With the video games market projected to reach a revenue of US$282.30bn in 2024 and expected to continue growing, the industry offers significant opportunities for economic growth and job creation. Abdulla Al Mosallam, Founder of Geekdom and Chief Administrative Officer of Doha Film Institute, highlighted the importance of fostering innovation and collaboration in the creative community. The workshop serves as a catalyst for inspiring young creators to push the boundaries of storytelling and technology, shaping Qatar’s creative future on a global scale.
Through initiatives like the “Geekdom Game Development Workshop,” Media City Qatar is contributing to the growth and development of Qatar’s diverse creative industries. By supporting sectors such as broadcasting, news, gaming, AI, and advanced technologies, the nation remains at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Established in 2013, Geekdom has become a staple in Qatar’s pop culture scene, offering unique opportunities for the community to engage with motion arts, visual storytelling, and various creative mediums. The success of Geekdom has led to the growth of a new national industry, promoting the advancement of homegrown talent and creative endeavors in Qatar.
