Microsoft Gulf has appointed Al-Futtaim Electronics as the additional new distributor of Xbox 360 hardware across the Gulf region excluding Saudi Arabia.

Under the agreement, Al-Futtaim Electronics will make the Xbox 360 gaming devices and accessories available to consumers across the GCC through an increased range of retail stores in the region.

As regional sales of Xbox 360 continue to soar, the Al-Futtaim group company plans to capitalise on the growing console video gaming industry in the Middle East by delivering a range of exciting products to avid gamers. Coupled with the much anticipated arrival of ‘Kinect’ and a line-up of new games, Al-Futtaim Electronics and Microsoft hope to create a new category of gaming and entertainment experiences that are more inclusive and relevant to a broader audience.

'The region has seen incredible growth in gaming and Microsoft Xbox 360 has captured a large share of it,' said Vishesh Bhatia, group director Electronics, Engineering & Technologies, Al-Futtaim.

'Through this partnership, we remain committed to offering wider coverage and stronger presence in emerging Gulf countries and working with Microsoft in bringing its market leading products and accessories range to gaming enthusiasts throughout the region.'

'By working in conjunction with Al-Futtaim Electronics, we will be in a unique position to deliver the best connected entertainment experience to consumers across the Gulf. This also ensures that our products are readily available and accessible to consumers across the region,' added Armagan Demir, head of Microsoft Entertainment and Devices Division Gulf.

Gaming products distributed by Al-Futtaim Electronics will reach stores by October.-TradeArabia News Service