OnStar recently organised the UAE’s first-ever gaming tournament powered entirely by in-vehicle Wi-Fi.
This event brought together ten of the Arab world’s top gamers and took place within the comfortable confines of Chevrolet and GMC connected vehicles.
Spanning an impressive 12 hours and covering a vast 450 km route through the UAE’s diverse landscapes, from the Liwa desert to Ras Al Khaimah via Dubai, the tournament featured intense head-to-head gaming competitions across a lineup of globally popular games.
Gamers and enthusiasts alike can follow the gameplay through an engaging video series of episodes available on the dedicated tournament webpage.
This unique gaming tournament, driven by OnStar’s connectivity enabled by etisalat by e&, was designed to spotlight the seamless integration of automotive technology within the context of popular gaming culture.
Shereen Harris, Head of Marketing & Subscriptions at OnStar Middle East, emphasised the rapid growth of infotainment in the automotive industry, facilitated by seamless connectivity and rich data flows.
Harris stated: “Modern vehicles can already connect navigation and infotainment systems, but a fully connected car can provide both convenience and enhanced user experiences for its passengers, turning vehicles into agents of personal time. Through Highway Hero, we are delighted to exemplify this and bring gaming enthusiasts together in a way never imagined before by the connectivity, convenience, and safety of connected vehicles.”
Esam Mahmoud, Senior Vice President – Small & Medium Business at etisalat by e&, expressed excitement about partnering with OnStar for the Highway Hero gaming tournament. He highlighted their expertise in seamless automotive connectivity and their commitment to shaping the future of technology and mobility in the UAE.
The gaming industry in the UAE has seen significant growth in recent years, establishing the nation as a thriving hub for gamers and game developers.
This surge parallels the increasing demand for in-vehicle Wi-Fi in the UAE, reflecting its global trend as a sought-after vehicle feature. The automotive connectivity market is currently valued at USD 33.42 Billion, with projections reaching USD 190.29 Billion by 2033. OnStar’s blend of gaming excitement with reliable in-vehicle Wi-Fi showcased the power of advanced vehicle connectivity and communication technology through uninterrupted online gameplay.