The Electronic Sports League have announced the addition of a third Global Challenge to commence in Dubai, United Arab Emirates with a prize purse of $50,000.

Counter-Strike 1.6 teams from across the globe will be able to qualify for the Main Event to be held at the Gitex Shopper in Dubai from 18-24th October 2008.

A cash prize of $50,000 is up for grabs and the event is expected to be the "biggest eSports event of the Middle East ever" and ESL admits they are looking forward to a world class tournament.

"The Intel Extreme Masters open a new chapter in the global eSports industry with a huge live event in Dubai - the digital hub of the middle east," read a statement.

"Together with our cooperation partner DWTC we decided to use the GiTEX as a platform for our most prestigious eSports show and tournament.", says Jens Hilgers, CEO of the Turtle Entertainment GmbH from Cologne, Germany.

"In emerging markets it is more important than anywhere to work with the right partners.

"DWTC has a vast experience in exhibitions and trade fairs which combined with our expertise in gaming events will ensure that the Middle East region can enjoy a first class eSports tournament."

• Date: 18th until 24th of October
  

• City: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  

• Venue: Gitex Shopper
  

• Prize Money: 50,000USD for CS 1.6
  

• Global Finals Slots: 2 slots for the continent of the winners
  

• Participants: 16 CS 1.6 Teams