To be held at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, World Expo from 21 to 25 June, students can attend education days on 21 and 22 June, followed by the Minecraft Education Challenge finals, which will be broadcasted live from GameExpo on 22 June. The Minecraft Education Challenge qualifiers will take place in registered schools during May and June for students aged 7+ competing in teams of 3 to reach the final. The finals will be broadcast live from GameExpo on 22 June.

With a goal to promote gaming and esports as a viable education enhancement platform and employment channel, DFRE recognises the tremendous potential that gaming has in supporting Dubai's economic growth through innovative initiatives and campaigns. DEF Minecraft Education Challenge offers a unique opportunity for UAE schools and students to experience the benefits of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) learning while showcasing the numerous opportunities available within the gaming and esports industry.

As a popular game worldwide, including in the UAE, where it has a significant following among players of all ages, DEF Minecraft Education is an excellent tool for teachers to incorporate into the classroom to enhance creativity, problem solving, communication and teamwork. With monthly average users of 110,000 and an average playtime of 124 minutes on a daily basis, Minecraft Education is a powerful Edtech platform facilitating the future generation of eLeaners.

Through the DEF Minecraft Education Challenge, students will enjoy a unique opportunity to combine learning and gaming in a fun and engaging way by participating in a Scavenger Hunt Challenge to find falcon eggs within a custom-made, Dubai-inspired Pirate Cove Bay map! With an integrated STEM learning, objective-based approach, DEF Minecraft Education Challenge aims to highlight the positive impact gaming can have on student learning and development.

Ahmed Al Khaja, CEO of Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), said: “We are proud to support Dubai's economic growth through innovative initiatives and campaigns such as the DEF Education through Gaming programme, part of Dubai Esports and Games Festival (DEF)’s second edition. Gaming can be a powerful tool for education and skill building, and we are pleased to be at the forefront of this movement in the UAE. We invite all schools and students to participate in this programme and shape the future of education in Dubai. Join us in fostering growth and learning through gaming by registering your interest today.”

Dubai Esports and Games Festival is committed to continuing its efforts to promote education through gaming in the UAE. Join us and discover the educational potential of gaming through the DEF Minecraft Education Challenge, and get ready for the final taking place at GameExpo on 22 June at the Dubai exhibition Centre.