• Middle East Film and Comic Con returns to Abu Dhabi April 24–26.
• Christopher Judge announced as first celebrity guest for 2026.
• Tickets go live after record-breaking attendance last year.
• Cosplay and short film competitions invite fans into the spotlight.
Pop culture season is officially back on the calendar. Middle East Film and Comic Con returns to ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi from April 24 to 26, 2026, and the momentum is already building. After drawing more than 46,000 visitors in 2025, the region’s biggest celebration of fandom is shaping its next chapter with early announcements that put community, creativity, and connection front and centre.
The first headline reveal sets a powerful tone. Christopher Judge, widely recognised for bringing Kratos to life in the God of War franchise, has been announced as the first celebrity guest for 2026. His presence signals the scale fans can expect, with more film, television, gaming, and voice acting talent set to join the lineup in the weeks ahead. Alongside screen stars, MEFCC continues its strong focus on artistry, welcoming comic creators from around the world. Among the first announced is Alan Quah, the Malaysian illustrator behind more than 400 comic covers across iconic titles including Wolverine, Star Wars, Nightwing, and Green Lantern.
MEFCC’s appeal extends far beyond celebrity moments. The event has become a space where fandom feels personal and shared. From artist meet-ups to fan-led discussions, the show floor is designed for discovery and interaction. Zones dedicated to gaming, anime, comics, and cosplay sit alongside panels and live sessions that invite fans deeper into the worlds they love.
Demand reflects that connection. Super Early Bird tickets sold out in just three days, followed quickly by Early Bird allocations. Standard tickets are now available from AED 160, opening the door for fans planning their MEFCC weekend. For those looking to step further into the experience, VIP tiers offer added access, exclusive benefits, and meet-the-star opportunities across three premium levels.
Fan competitions remain a core part of the MEFCC identity. The Cosplay Competition is now open, welcoming creators of all skill levels to showcase their craftsmanship and performance. The stakes are high, with the winner earning the chance to represent the UAE at the World Cosplay Summit Finals in Nagoya, Japan. Filmmakers also have their moment, with the annual Short Film Competition inviting original submissions inspired by the theme of Dreams, encouraging fresh storytelling from across the region.
Organised by Informa in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism Abu Dhabi, MEFCC continues to unite film, television, gaming, anime, comics, and cosplay under one roof. With early announcements already sparking excitement, 2026 is shaping up to be another defining year for pop culture in the Middle East!
Keep your eyes peeled for further announcements and stay connected via www.mefcc.com and @mefcc.
