GTA 5: Finally Legal in Saudi Arabia & UAE After 12 Years!

After a staggering 12-year wait, Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5) and GTA Online have officially launched in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This marks a significant shift, as the blockbuster game, released globally in 2013, had previously been unavailable due to age rating concerns and local regulations regarding violence, sex, and drug use.

Despite selling over 215 million copies worldwide, GTA 5 faced hurdles in these regions. However, a new 21+ age rating, introduced by the Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Media Regulation and the UAE Media Council, has paved the way for its legal sale. This higher age restriction signals a change in attitude towards gaming content.

Previously, gamers resorted to importing boxed copies or using PlayStation/Xbox accounts linked to other regions to bypass restrictions. Now, fans can legally purchase the game. Industry analysts at Niko Partners highlight that this official approval removes previous headaches and allows for wider marketing, potentially boosting sales.

This development also opens doors for other games that might have struggled to gain approval in the past. Previously, some games were edited to comply with censorship requirements, while others faced outright bans if publishers refused modifications. The new age rating allows GTA 5 to be sold unmodified, setting a precedent for future releases.

Furthermore, a partnership between Take-Two Interactive (Rockstar's parent company) and the Saudi firm, Advanced Initiative Company, will see the latter act as the local distributor for all Take-Two titles, including GTA 5, WWE 2K, NBA 2K, and Red Dead Redemption. This move positions Saudi Arabia and the UAE, with a combined population of around 44 million, as potential markets for future Rockstar releases, including the highly anticipated GTA 6.

The launch of GTA 5 in Saudi Arabia and the UAE is more than just the arrival of a popular game; it signifies a cultural shift and a growing acceptance of diverse gaming content in these regions. It's a win for gamers and a potentially lucrative market for Rockstar Games.

What does this mean for GTA 6?

The success of GTA 5's launch could mean big things for GTA 6 when it eventually arrives. The groundwork has been laid and a market has been established.

When is GTA 6 coming out?

Currently, GTA 6 is slated for release on May 9, 2026, but keep in mind that delays are always possible.