Today's Edition
ASILA AL BADI (ABU DHABI)
Proving that esports knows no gender, young women from across the UAE came together and showed they got game as Girls Game Gala returned in Abu Dhabi.
Organised by Abu Dhabi Gaming on Friday, the event turned esports arena Pixoul into an all-access space exclusively for women.
While gaming took centre stage, the celebration went beyond the screens – featuring breast cancer awareness talks and cultural booths offering henna, beadwork, and art.
The gala created a space for women to compete, connect, and celebrate their shared passion for gaming, creativity, and community.
For Emirati esports athlete Amna Alameri, events like the Girls Game Gala are more than just a stage to showcase skills – they’re safe spaces that foster confidence and growth.
“We don’t get many chances to prove our skills outside of women’s spaces,” Alameri said. “In mixed tournaments, women often feel nervous or overlooked. Here, we shine. It’s not only about competing; it’s about being seen and supported,” she said.
“Events like this motivate us to keep pushing, to show that gaming is a space for everyone. I loved how it brought girls together, players, creators, even those who just came to watch - all celebrating the same passion. It makes you feel like you are a part of something bigger, part of a community that’s growing with every event like this.”
Angelina Candalza de Roma, who joined the Gen.G Valorant tournament with her team “Mars”, said such initiatives redefine how women in esports are perceived.
“People often think we’re just girls gaming for fun, but this event proves that we belong here too – that we’re just as capable, competitive, and passionate as anyone else,” said De Roma, a student at Middlesex University Dubai.
“It’s not only about winning; it’s about visibility and showing the next generation that gaming isn’t limited by gender. Seeing the community come together like this reminds us that we have a real place in this space.”
Gamers who are yet to go professional, like Alya Al Qasimi, were inspired to dream big as they watched the female esports athletes conquer the tournaments.
“It made me realise that gaming doesn’t have to be just a hobby for a girl – it’s a passion that can turn into something more. Whether it’s competing, designing, or streaming, we’re proving that girls can do it all,” said Al Qasimi.
It wasn’t just a fun event, she said, “it’s empowering”.
“You feel seen and supported in a field that usually doesn’t have much space for women. Everywhere you looked, there were girls cheering each other on, celebrating even small wins,” Al Qasimi said. “You could feel the sense of sisterhood – that this was our night, our space.”
