The Emirates Esports Federation (EEF) and its partner ITW Universe, launched what it calls an Invitation to Tender (a formal request for bids from potential partners) for an investment to acquire and operate a franchised team in an upcoming franchised league called E Gaming League, or EGL for short. the owners of this upcoming league describe it as a “a significant opportunity for global investors, esports teams, sports franchise businesses, and high-net-worth individuals to become part of the rapidly growing esports ecosystem that they hope will reinforce the United Arab Emirates as a “hub for digital entertainment and economic advancement,” according to the announcement.
“The EGL franchise model represents a groundbreaking evolution in the esports industry,” said Emirates Esports Federation President Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Bin Shakbout Al Nahyan, in a release. “It is not just a framework but a transformative platform that ensures stability, fosters global collaboration, and unlocks unparalleled opportunities for long-term investment. Esports has grown beyond virtual entertainment to become a mass sport that transcends borders, cultures, and generations. With EGL, we are not just hosting games—we are shaping the future of the digital economy.”
The fee for purchasing a franchise within the league was not disclosed publicly, but a non-refundable submission fee of $2K USD is required at the time of bid submission. Potential franchise owners will represent a franchise in regions such as Dubai, London, New York, Los Angeles, São Paulo (Brazil), Delhi (India), Beijing, Singapore, Sydney, and Tokyo. Following the submission, review, and acceptance process, franchisees will be required to pay 10% of the overall fees within 10 days (payment contacts will be signed by March 12).
Generally speaking, EGL hopes to sign 24 franchised teams in the aforementioned regions, and offer per-season prize pool of $1M USD, which will be used for prize money and player salaries. Teams will compete in Genre Championships – MOBA, FPS, Sports, Fighting, and Battle Royal. Games currently listed include Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, EA FC 25, Mortal Kombat 1 Khaos Reigns, PUBG Mobile, and Honor of Kings.
Jio Games will serve as a global broadcast partner, Viacom 18 will serve the Americas and Europe, and Middle East e& will service Asia Pacific. The first official season of the league will kick off on May 22.
Some of the other perks of being a franchise owner in EGL, according to its owners, includes a 60% revenue share (on sponsorships, media rights, and merchandise), a 50% guaranteed return on the licensing fee, and a perpetual EGL franchise license.
Players can begin signing up for the league through a verification process beginning in late March. Following registration, players will compete for draft pool positions, followed by a draft process for franchised teams, in April.
More details on the league can be found at egluae.com.