As of today, Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5) is finally accessible in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The game, part of Rockstar’s controversial crime simulator series, was banned in both nations for years, which was not unexpected given its provocative content.
However, over a decade since its initial release, the landscape has begun to change, providing a glimmer of hope for future games in the franchise. The Middle East is not typically characterized as a major gaming hub, yet recent developments indicate a growing acceptance of the industry.
Notably, in 2024, the International Olympic Committee announced that Saudi Arabia would host the inaugural Olympic eSports Games, which was originally slated for 2025 but has since been postponed to 2027. The lifting of bans on GTA 5 in both Saudi Arabia and the UAE is another step toward embracing gaming in the region.
On July 3, the General Authority of Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia confirmed that GTA 5 and GTA Online would be available starting July 17. Coinciding with this announcement, PlayStation Arabia revealed that the UAE would also release both games on the same date.
In Saudi Arabia, the games received a 21+ rating, stricter than the ESRB’s M rating, but still allows legal-age gamers to enjoy them after years of prohibition. The reversal of the ban is particularly interesting, especially given the game’s notably provocative mission and the duration of its previous restrictions.
This change could signify a relaxation of standards by the Saudi and UAE governments regarding bans. Alternatively, GTA 5 may not appear as mature as it did when launched.
For Rockstar, this news is promising; the game continues to perform well, with lifetime sales exceeding 215 million copies. The newfound availability in regions where it was once illegal could further boost these numbers.
Despite its age, GTA 5 provides players with an engaging experience while they await the release of the anticipated GTA 6 in 2026. Whether the next installment will be available in these regions remains uncertain, but regulators now have GTA 5 as a reference point for future decisions.