Abu Dhabi is hosting UAE’s largest anime festival, Animenia
The cosplay competition boasts the largest prize pool ever offered at an anime festival
Dubai: Calling all anime fans, and cosplayers! Abu Dhabi is transformed into a vibrant celebration of all things anime with the Animenia festival.
Taking place until October 27 at Manarat Al Saadiyat, this five-day event is perfect for anyone who loves the world of Japanese animation.
Organised by Abu Dhabi’s Department of Culture and Tourism, Animenia will transport attendees to the heart of Neo-Tokyo, a fictional metropolis synonymous with the high-tech and fantastical worlds of anime. The festival is set against the stunning backdrop of Saadiyat Island's beachfront.
Visitors will experience their favorite anime come to life with interactive themed exhibits.
The exhibits allow you to step into iconic scenes and recreate your favorite moments. Get up close and personal with beloved characters, from the ever-popular Naruto to the formidable Eren Yeager from ‘Attack on Titan’ and the rising star Yuji Itadori from ‘Jujutsu Kaisen’. Sanrio fans won't be left out either, as the adorable Hello Kitty is also scheduled to make an appearance.
Record-breaking prize pool for Cosplay winners
Animenia also sets the stage for an epic cosplay competition, boasting the largest prize pool ever offered at an anime festival – a staggering Dh400,000! Whether you're a seasoned costume creator or a passionate amateur, this is your chance to showcase your talent and dedication. The competition features solo and group categories, with additional awards for Best in Craftsmanship, Best in Performance, and Best in Anime Adaptation, ensuring there's something for everyone. A prestigious panel of cosplay legends will judge the competition, including Yuegene Fay from Thailand, Rian CYD from Indonesia, Naythero from France, and SayoChuu and SabCosplay from Latvia. Special guests like Reika from Japan and Vega Cosplay from Saudi Arabia will also be adding their expertise to the mix. Those interested should register by October 20 on the official website.
Meet your anime heroes
Beyond the cosplay competition, Animenia will offer anime fans the chance to meet the biggest names in the industry. The festival is hosting interactive meet-and-greets with renowned anime directors, voice actors, manga artists, and video game creators. Imagine getting an autograph from Yutaka Abe, the artist behind the legendary ‘Detective Conan’ series, or having a question and answer session with Ryo Horikawa, the iconic voice of Vegeta from ‘Dragon Ball Z’.
The guest list also includes creative minds like Kenji Watanabe (Digimon Digital World), Naoto Ohshima, designer of Sonic the Hedgehog, Kikuko Inoue (famed voice actress), and Yoko Shimomura (legendary music composer).
The festival boasts a packed schedule of events guaranteed to keep attendees entertained.
The event will also feature Japanese shows, J-Pop concerts, and acrobatic displays. Headliners like Syrian singer-songwriter and cartoon voice actress Rasha Rizk will take the stage on October.
On the following day, legendary J-Pop band Flow will bring their electrifying energy to the festival, accompanied by renowned names like Anime singer Mojo and iconic band Angela.
Throughout the weekend, visitors will watch performances of Japanese songstress Junna and the dance unit Real Akiba Boyz. A special treat awaits on Saturday, where American instrumental video game cover band Powerglove will open the Cosplay competition. And to wrap up the festival extravaganza, Sunday will see anime-inspired rock bands Blinding Sunrise, Koyomi, Catch me Yesterday, and Snowkel deliver the closing performance.
For the gamers in the crowd, Animenia is providing a dedicated gaming hub with a VR zone, e-sports zone, and Japanese arcade games.