Riyadh‑based game development studio Fahy Studios has closed a $1.75 million funding round led by Impact46 and Merak Capital, as the two‑year‑old startup works toward its ambitious goal of building hit global games from Saudi Arabia.
The investment will help the studio accelerate development of its pipeline of hybrid‑casual mobile games, which blend accessible gameplay with deeper engagement mechanics.
Current Projects
The active pipeline includes RAWR, an expansive monster‑collecting RPG with unique battle mechanics and deep meta elements; Footy Traps, a fast‑paced PvP football strategy game; and Heist Party, a chaotic multiplayer heist title where players can team up or betray each other in a race for the biggest loot.
Founded by Hani Hashem, Owis Alsaour, and Fahad Alshibl in early 2023, the studio graduated from NEOM’s LevelUp accelerator program and has since partnered with UK publisher Kwalee for global distribution.
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Growing Demand for Hybrid‑Casual Games
“Today’s mobile gamers want more than fleeting experiences. They seek games that are easy to pick up but offer meaningful progression,” said Hani Hashem, CEO and co‑founder. “Our goal is to create games that are instantly fun yet endlessly rewarding.”
This focus reflects a segment that combines the accessibility of casual mobile games with longer‑term gameplay elements.
According to the company, they are redefining casual gaming by blending ease of entry with depth, positioning the studio as part of Saudi Arabia’s push to become a major gaming hub.
Saudi Arabia’s Gaming Market
The funding arrives as Saudi Arabia’s gaming market experiences rapid expansion. Over 24 million gamers represent 67 % of the population, giving the Kingdom one of the highest penetration rates worldwide, and local spending per player exceeds international averages.
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Basmah Al Sinaidi, Managing Partner at Impact46, noted, “Fahy is one of the unique Saudi studios that possess great potential. We are looking forward to backing the team and their visionary approach to create exceptional games and experiences.”
Abdulelah Alshareef, VP of Venture Capital at Merak Capital, highlighted the investment’s significance for the Kingdom’s ambitions: “Mobile gaming is a high‑growth sector, and Fahy Studios is uniquely positioned to create experiences that engage players worldwide. Our investment reflects our commitment to supporting the development of Saudi Arabia’s gaming sector.”
The studio plans to use the capital to expand its development team and production capabilities as it works to establish Saudi Arabia as a competitive force in global game development.
It also aims to evolve into a full‑fledged publisher, according to its website, which could further support the industry’s expansion, an area that the video game industry is watching closely.