Xsolla and SABAH.HUB sign Memorandum of Understanding to accelerate Azerbaijan’s innovation ecosystem

On July 1, 2026, a significant step forward was taken for Azerbaijan’s video game scene. Xsolla formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SABAH.HUB, a premier innovation and investment platform based in Baku. This collaboration marks a major milestone in the ongoing Xsolla-Ministry/IDDA partnership, underscoring a shared commitment to building a world class digital innovation landscape.

Azerbaijan is rapidly gaining recognition as an emerging powerhouse in video game development, driven by a youthful, tech-savvy population and increasing strategic government support. This partnership aims to harness that momentum by creating a robust ecosystem that supports the entire lifecycle of gaming innovation, from the classroom to the commercial launch.

Driving Innovation Through Key Initiatives

This agreement outlines several strategic initiatives designed to catalyze growth in the region. Central to the collaboration are:

• Baku ID (Baku Investment Day): Azerbaijan’s innovation event, expected in fall 2026, serves as a Regional Nexus bridging startups, investors, and ecosystem players across Emerging Europe, Türkiye, MENA, and Central Asia to drive the ecosystem forward.
• SABAH.city: An upcoming 20-hectare technology park and innovation cluster will be created serving as the new epicenter of Azerbaijan’s innovation ecosystem.
• University & Talent Network: Access to a nationwide network of universities and students, helping develop the next generation of technology and game industry professionals.

A thriving video game development ecosystem

Anatoly Strutinsky, Regional SVP of Government & Industry Relations at Xsolla

“Azerbaijan is emerging as one of the most exciting video game development ecosystems in the region, backed by a young, tech-savvy population, growing government support for digital innovation, and a strategic location bridging Europe and Asia,” said Anatoly Strutinsky, Regional SVP of Government & Industry Relations at Xsolla. “We see enormous potential here, not only to develop games, but to create an ecosystem that enables talent, startups, and technology companies to build products, partnerships, and innovations for the global market in Azerbaijan. This partnership with SABAH.HUB is about investing in the future.”

“This partnership is more than a collaboration, it’s a shared commitment to accelerating innovation, creating meaningful opportunities, and strengthening our ecosystem,” said Rahim Bayramli, CEO of SABAH.HUB.“By working with Xsolla, we can empower local talent and position Azerbaijan as a thriving hub for innovation and sustainable economic development.”

Rahim Bayramli, CEO of SABAH.HUB

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