Dunetech, a pioneering game development studio based in Qatar, has been named the Best Arab Startup at the prestigious MENA Startup Awards in 2025. This recognition celebrates the studio’s extraordinary commitment to creating world-class, culturally rich gaming experiences that resonate with Arab gamers and introduce the global audience to the unique stories and aesthetics of the Arab world.
Pioneering a New Era in Arab Gaming
Founded by Nader Khadouma, Dunetech has set out with an ambitious mission to reshape the gaming industry by creating authentic Arab-centric experiences, particularly in the realm of competitive PC and console games. The studio’s focus is on building high-quality, immersive gaming experiences that incorporate deep storytelling rooted in Arab history, folklore, and modern life — a mission that has garnered global attention and now, regional acclaim.
This award signifies not only the technical and creative excellence of Dunetech but also its vital contribution to the development of Arab gaming talent and its role in bridging the gap between global gaming standards and Arab culture.
Cultural Authenticity Meets Cutting-Edge Technology
What sets Dunetech apart from its competitors is its steadfast commitment to cultural authenticity. While many regional gaming studios often rely on outsourcing or focus on mobile clones, Dunetech is determined to create full-fledged, competitive games with no compromises. Their first major project — an Arab-led fighting game powered by innovative AI — promises to bring Arab stories to the forefront in a way that no other game has done before.
Dunetech’s integration of cutting-edge AI into gameplay, not just as a development tool but as an interactive layer in the game world, exemplifies the studio’s forward-thinking approach to gaming. It’s this bold combination of technology and culture that has set Dunetech on the path to redefining Arab identity in the gaming landscape.
Overcoming Challenges and Building a Legacy
The journey to this award has been far from easy. As a founder, Nader Khadouma faced immense challenges when trying to launch the business in Tunisia. The lack of infrastructure and limited support for the gaming industry made it nearly impossible to realize his vision. However, his decision to move Dunetech to Qatar, with the support of Qatari partner Rashed Al Sulaiti, proved to be the turning point.
Qatar’s supportive environment for creative industries and its robust infrastructure have provided Dunetech with the perfect platform to grow and thrive. Now, as a proud Qatari-based studio, Dunetech is on the cusp of achieving its dream — creating an Arab-led gaming title that can stand shoulder to shoulder with global giants.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Arab Gaming
The recognition at the MENA Startup Awards is just the beginning for Dunetech. With plans to reveal its first major project at Web Summit Qatar 2026, the studio’s future looks incredibly promising. Dunetech’s commitment to inspiring the next generation of Arab game developers and bringing Arab culture into the global gaming scene is something that will resonate deeply within the industry for years to come.
As Nader Khadouma aptly puts it: “We’re not just making a game — we’re building a platform for Arab creativity to shine in an industry that has ignored our stories for too long. If we want to see our culture in the global gaming scene, we have to create it ourselves.”
Celebrating the Vision of Dunetech
The MENA Startup Awards in 2025 recognize Dunetech not only for its impressive technical achievements but for its dedication to representing Arab culture in gaming. The studio’s leadership and vision are a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs across the Arab world. With a focus on innovation, cultural authenticity, and cutting-edge technology, Dunetech is leading the charge to put the Arab world on the global gaming map.
For updates and to follow Dunetech’s journey, visit their social media profiles:
At Evergreen Awards, we honor excellence across three key categories—Organizations, Products, and Individuals. By recognizing success in all its forms, we shine a light on the achievements that inspire progress and set new standards for greatness.
