GTA5 Officially Launching in Saudi Arabia After Years of Ban

Image: GTA5 physical

After being unavailable for years, Grand Theft Auto V is finally making its official debut in Saudi Arabia. The long-standing ban on the blockbuster title has been lifted, and the game is now set to release in the country on July 17, complete with a 21+ age rating.

This marks a major turning point for both Rockstar Games and the Saudi gaming community. For years, GTA V had been among a group of high-profile titles that were either banned or heavily restricted in the region. Back in 2018, reports by the Associated Press alleged that Saudi authorities banned 47 video games after a tragic incident involving two children. The list supposedly included games like GTA V, Assassin’s Creed 2, and The Witcher. However, that news was refuted by the Saudi General Commission for Audio-Visual Media (GCAM).

While the bans were never officially confirmed in full detail, it was widely understood that the restrictions were likely linked to the games’ depiction of violence, drug use, and adult content. Despite those barriers, Grand Theft Auto V remained a highly sought-after title among Saudi gamers, often accessed through unofficial means.

Now, after years of speculation, the wait is finally over. The news first broke through a post by well-known GTA leaker Ben (@videotechuk_), who shared on July 3 that Grand Theft Auto V would launch in Saudi Arabia this month. He added that the title will carry a 21+ age classification, in line with regional content standards. Ben also noted that the move paves the way for Grand Theft Auto 6 to potentially launch in the country without facing the same hurdles.

Shortly after the leak, PlayStation Arabia confirmed the news via social media. Their tweet also confirmed the arrival of GTA5 in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), along with Saudi Arabia:

“Experience the ultimate entertainment with Grand Theft Auto V and Grand Theft Auto Online, rated +21 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Available on July 17 on PlayStation 5.”

One of the strongest reactions to the news came from Hattan Tawili, the General Supervisor of Video Games Classification at GCAM. In a heartfelt post, he reflected on the long journey it took to bring the game to Saudi shelves. “A project we've been working on for years to develop the Saudi market… even though it was one of the goals that seemed nearly impossible! This step will completely transform the gaming market in Saudi Arabia,” he wrote, calling July 3, 2025, “a day for history.”

This release is more than just a single game hitting store shelves — it reflects a broader shift in Saudi Arabia’s approach to gaming.