Microsoft to Halt Xbox Console Sales in Middle East

Microsoft has reportedly decided to stop selling its Xbox consoles in the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia. This news comes from Saudi journalist MAlbsimi, who stated on Twitter that Microsoft has informed major stores in the region about the halt in sales. According to him, this decision also affects distributors, meaning no new Xbox stock will be available for the foreseeable future. Despite contacting Microsoft weeks ago for confirmation, MAlbsimi says the company did not deny the claims.

Poor Market Performance to Blame

MAlbsimi and several industry insiders suggest that this decision likely stems from Xbox’s struggles to capture market share in the region. In Saudi Arabia and other Middle Eastern countries, PlayStation holds a dominant position in the gaming console market. Microsoft’s decision to cut back console sales may be an effort to reduce financial losses in the region, especially following the recent Activision acquisition.

Microsoft has also been shifting its focus away from hardware and more toward digital services like Xbox Game Pass and cloud gaming. This move is consistent with the company’s broader strategy of focusing on subscription services rather than console sales, particularly in regions where its consoles have struggled to perform.

The absence of Xbox consoles could further cement PlayStation’s dominance in the Middle East, widening the gap between the two major competitors. Still, with no official statement from Microsoft, these reports remain speculative, but they align with the company’s recent decisions in other markets.