Players in these 2 Countries Can Finally Play GTA — But Only If They Meet This Special Requirement
Grand Theft Auto V is finally making its way to two Gulf countries — but this historic arrival comes with a very particular condition…
Twelve years after its initial release, the phenomenon Grand Theft Auto V is officially set to conquer two new territories. This belated debut might even pave the way for GTA VI, which is scheduled to launch on May 26, 2026.
Image credit: Rockstar Games
Official green light after years of bans
Both Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates have just announced the official arrival of GTA V and GTA Online. The General Authority of Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia confirmed on Twitter that the games have received their official classification, allowing them to go on sale starting July 17. Meanwhile, the PlayStation Middle East account confirmed a similar release for the UAE — marking a major milestone for the region.
استمتع بتجربة اللعبة الشهيرة Grand Theft Auto V & Grand Theft Auto Online، حصلت على تصنيف 21 فما فوق.
— التصنيف العمري للألعاب الإلكترونية (@Gmedia_Games) July 3, 2025
تتوفر بشكل رسمي في الأسواق السعودية 17 يوليو 2025.
تأكد من مناسبة اللعبة لفئتك العمرية.#تصنيف_الألعاب
الهيئة العامة لـ #تنظيم_الإعلام pic.twitter.com/M02Dy5XxZf
A strict condition to meet
However, this newfound freedom comes with a major catch: players must be at least 21 years old to play. This restriction is stricter than most age ratings worldwide and is comparable to an Adults Only rating as defined by the ESRB.
Gone are the days of importing physical copies or creating fake accounts from other regions just to enjoy a virtual life of crime. Now, everything is done above board — as long as you meet the age requirement.
A window of opportunity before GTA VI
This official approval could set the stage for a simultaneous release of GTA VI in these countries next year, with no delays. Players in the region will finally get to experience Rockstar’s next explosive adventure from day one — no workarounds needed.
Fans can now get ready to explore Los Santos in its full glory and dive into the chaotic multiplayer world of GTA Online with no barriers. A true turning point for the local gaming community!
Why now?
Why did it take Rockstar and local authorities so long to come to an agreement? Mainly because of the franchise’s controversial reputation. But with massive global demand, it became increasingly difficult to ignore this iconic title:
- A rapidly growing local fanbase that kept pushing for access. Several factors ultimately convinced the authorities to finally open the door to GTA V:
- A booming gaming market across the MENA region.
- A desire to align global release schedules for major upcoming titles like GTA VI.
With this official approval, the message is clear: the region is now ready to welcome major titles without excessive restrictions. Gamers in Saudi Arabia and the UAE can start counting down the days before they roam the streets of Los Santos — legally, and with the authorities’ blessing!
