MEFCC 2026: 10 things to do at Abu Dhabi's pop culture weekend
Dubai: Middle East Film & Comic Con returns to ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from 11 to 13 September, marking its 14th edition. Last year's event drew more than 46,000 fans, and this year's line-up spans Hollywood names, anime guests, tabletop gaming and a cosplay competition with a Dh60,000 prize pool. Here's what's worth planning your weekend around. 1. The cosplay competition The MEFCC Cosplay…
The Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) 2026 is set to take place from September 11-13 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. This 14th edition of the event is expected to attract over 46,000 fans, featuring Hollywood stars, anime guests, tabletop gaming and a cosplay competition with a Dh60,000 prize pool. Here are 10 must-do activities during the weekend:
1. Cosplay Competition: Witness the region's top cosplayers compete for a Dh60,000 prize pool and an invitation to the WCS 2027 Finals in Nagoya, Japan. Meet international cosplayers Aokiji and Marmalade and participate in the Cosplay Catwalk.
2. Trading Card Tournaments: Participate in tournaments for Pokémon, One Piece and Magic: The Gathering, with 300 player spots and learn-to-play sessions.
3. Meet the Stars: Enjoy the presence of Hollywood, anime and other leading figures in film and television, including John Cena, Mackenyu, Joonas Suotamo, Arden Cho, Pom Klementieff, Jacob Romero Gibson and Charithra Chandran. VIP ticket holders can enjoy autograph and photograph sessions.
4. Main Stage Panels: Engage in community talks, interviews and interactive Q&As with the guests of honor.
5. Otaku District: Immerse yourself in the anime and Asian pop culture hub, featuring live music, J-pop and J-rock covers, karaoke, choreography workshops and Janken battles. Additionally, a Japanese snack stop is available.
6. Retail and Collectibles: Browse exclusive and limited-edition figures, comic books, Funko Pops, trading cards, apparel and rare collectibles from local and international retailers and creators.
7. Artist Alley and Comic Creators Club: Support the creators of pop culture by purchasing original work and making commissions.
8. Food Truck Park: Enjoy a variety of food options from vendors like Mattar Farm, SALT, Wing Stop, Moshi and House of Pops.
9. Tabletop Zone: Challenge yourself with board games, giant-format games, puzzles and interactive challenges, with Game Masters available to assist newcomers.
10. Additional Venues: Explore the Gaming Zone, Collectors Gallery, Bookworm Lounge and Festival Plaza's carnival games for a well-rounded experience.
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