The Birds Come Home: BigBird & AngryBird Launch Red Dunes Esports

UAE-based Red Dunes Esports, in conjunction with video game publisher Red Dunes Games, has launched the premier fighting game organization - built by world champions, for world champions.

Esports is one of the fastest-growing sectors of the gaming industry, and worldwide revenue is projected to reach US$5.1bn in 2026. ​ Red Dunes Esports, with its expertise and understanding of what it takes to succeed in their field, is already making the move to be a premier outlet, the leader of the pack.

The Leader of the Pack

After years of representing world-class teams like REJECT and NIP on the global stage, Adel ‘BigBird' Anouche and Amjed ‘AngryBird’ Al Shalabi return to their roots to build the Middle East's premier fighting game organization, representing the rising power of the Middle East competitive fighting game scene on the global stage.

Adel "BigBird" Anouche is one of Europe's most consistent Street Fighter competitors. Known for his analytical playstyle and calm demeanor under pressure, Big Bird has represented the region on the international stage with a quiet intensity that speaks louder than words when the tournament lights come on.

Amjed "AngryBird" Al Shalabi brings the fire that defines champion mentality; he plays with emotion but channels it into precision. He has been a fixture in the EU FGC for years, earning respect through both results and the way he carries himself.

Alongside them are brothers Abdulla (Abood) and Mohamed (Hamood) Kdaimati, the original brothers-in-arms who were there before the world knew their names. They represent the grassroots foundation of this team and the values of loyalty and continuity that Red Dunes stands for.

"We left the UAE to become the best, but we never forgot where we came from. Red Dunes Esports is built on brotherhood, on the roots that made us who we are. This isn't just a team,it's home." ​ Adel and Amjed.

A winning team built on authenticity

Red Dunes Esports aims to set the standard for FGC organizations in EMEA by redefining player care, community building, and competitive development. The goal is to field a world-class roster from the Middle East, establish a regional training pipeline, form strong partnerships with publishers, sponsors, and event organizers, and expand FGC storytelling to new audiences over the next five years.

Red Dunes Esports has its eyes on the prize and will focus on every major Capcom event on the horizon, including the upcoming season of Street Fighter League EU, the Capcom Pro Tour and the Esports World Cup 2026.

Red Dunes Esports is not just another esports organization. This is the first major FGC team born from and rooted in Abu Dhabi, UAE, committed to opening doors and maximising representation for a region often overlooked in competitive gaming.

“We want to build a legacy that inspires the next generation of fighters from our part of the world. Because they deserve to see themselves represented at the top.”

Roots. Camaraderie. Legacy.

About Red Dunes Games

Red Dunes Games is an independent game developer and publisher based in Abu Dhabi, UAE. With a global outlook and deep roots in storytelling, Red Dunes creates and publishes original games that resonate with players across cultures. The company is known for its creativity, production quality, and commitment to working with world-class partners.

About Red Dunes Esports

Red Dunes Esports is a competitive gaming organization based in Abu Dhabi, UAE, focused on the Fighting Game Community (FGC). Founded by world-class players, the organization is built on a player-first philosophy, combining competitive excellence with a strong commitment to community and long-term development. Red Dunes Esports aims to represent the Middle East on the global stage while creating opportunities for the next generation of talent in the region.