Whether you arrive in full cosplay, come with friends, bring the family, or just want to see what all the hype is about, here are the top 10 things to do at MEFCC this year:

1. Cosplay Face-Off

Cosplay at MEFCC isn't just dressing up, it's a chance to take the stage. The MEFCC Cosplay Competition brings the region's top cosplayers together for an ultimate showdown, with an AED 60,000 prize pool and the chance for the UAE's winning team to represent the country at the WCS 2027 Finals in Nagoya, Japan. Not competing? Cosplay Central also offers meet-ups with award-winning international cosplayers including Aokiji and Marmalade, not to mention the Cosplay Catwalk, where fans can steal the spotlight and wow the audience..

2. Pick A Card, Any Card

Think you have what it takes to become a TCG champion? Head to the TCG Arena for tournaments across Pokémon, One Piece and Magic: The Gathering. With three days of play, 300 player spots, prizes and learn-to-play sessions, it's where casual players can get competitive and seasoned players can put their decks to the test.

3. Meet The Stars

In this exclusive zone, fans have the chance to grab photographs and autographs and create a memory that goes beyond the screen. This year's lineup includes John Cena, Mackenyu, Joonas Suotamo, Arden Cho, Pom Klementieff, Jacob Romero Gibson and Charithra Chandran. Here’s your chance to meet the stars from Hollywood, anime, comics and some of the world's biggest film and television franchises.

VIP ticket holders are already covered, with Meet the Stars vouchers included with their pass. General admission ticket holders can also purchase Meet the Stars vouchers on the day at the Meet the Stars Zone, with vouchers going on sale 60 minutes before each session begins, subject to availability.

4. A Front Row Seat To Pop Culture

The MEFCC Main Stage is where fans hear directly from the people behind the characters and stories they love. Hear the untold stories and behind-the-scenes insights you’ve always wondered about through celebrity panels, community talks, interviews and interactive Q&As, all surrounded by thousands of fellow fans.

5. Otaku District

For anime and Asian pop culture fans, Otaku District, sponsored by Crunchyroll, is a destination in itself. Immerse yourself in live music, J-pop/J-rock covers, Random Play Dances, karaoke, dance performances, choreography workshops, fandom quizzes, Janken battles and an Asian snack stop to keep you fuelled throughout the day. Whether you're a lifelong anime fan, a K-pop stan or simply curious, the Otaku District is where fans can come together to celebrate what they love.

6. Retail Therapy

Come with a shopping list, leave with something you didn't know you needed. MEFCC's retail and collector spaces bring together local and international retailers and creators offering exclusive and limited-edition figures, comic books, Funko Pops, trading cards, apparel and other rare collectibles.

7. Art, Imagination & Everything in Between

MEFCC is as much about the people who create pop culture as those who consume it. Visit Artist Alley and the Comic Creators Club to meet international artists behind your favourite comics, local and regional caricaturists, creators, discover original artwork, rare finds and commission something completely unique.

8. Eat, Recharge and Geek Out

The MEFCC Food Truck Park offers a variety of options for different tastes and dietary requirements, so visitors can refuel without leaving the action. This year’s mouthwatering bites come from the likes of Mattar Farm, Salt, Wing Stop, Moshi and House of Pops.

9. Roll the Dice, Play & Make Memories

Fans can step away from the screens and gather their favourite people for some good old-fashioned fun at the Tabletop Zone. From board games and giant games to puzzles and interactive challenges, there’s something for every age and experience level. New to tabletop gaming? Game Masters are on hand to get everyone started!

10. Discover Something Unexpected

Explore the Gaming Zone, step into the Collectors Gallery, browse the Bookworm Lounge or let the whole family loose on the Festival Plaza’s carnival games. With new experiences, unexpected discoveries and plenty of ways to spend the day, there’s always another corner of MEFCC waiting to be explored.

For three days, ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi becomes the ultimate fandom rendezvous. Standard tickets are on sale now, with one-day tickets from AED 160 and three-day passes from AED 390; children aged six and under enter free while children 7 – 11 years purchase ticket at the venue for AED 50.