If you’re anything like us, you’re always ready to get your geek on. Good news, then: the Middle East Film and Comic Con (MEFCC), Dubai’s premiere annual pop culture convention, is coming back to town from April 5-7.
MEFCC will once again take place at the Dubai World Trade Centre (Zabeel Halls 4, 5 and 6), where you’ll have the chance to interact with some big-name celebrities, skilled artists and like-minded cosplayers.
Before you get overwhelmed planning your con schedule, we’ve broken down ten things you may want to check out.
Meet your favourite celebs
This year, grab an autograph from or photograph with your favourite celebrity. The roster includes Ezra Miller (Dh220-260), Karl Urban Dh150-Dh200), Jenna Coleman (Dh100-150), Kristian Nairn (Dh100-Dh150) and Jason David Frank (Dh150-Dh200). Make sure to check the official MEFCC website for individual celebrity schedules so you don’t miss their slot.
Photo op and singing session timings
Warning! All celebrity schedules are subject to change, so make sure you check the latest updates on the ground at MEFCC to avoid disappointment. You can buy your vouchers on entry to the show, or in the meet-and-greet area.
Ezra Miller
Best known as: The Flash in DC’s Justice League
Autograph: Friday, 1.30pm–2.30pm (Dh220)
Autograph: Saturday, 4.30pm–5.30pm (Dh220)
Photograph: Saturday, 2.30 PM-4pm (Dh260)
Jenna Coleman
Best known as: Clara Oswald in Doctor Who
Autograph: Thursday, 5pm-6pm (Dh100)
Photograph: Thursday, 6.30pm-8pm (Dh150)
Autograph: Friday, 5pm-6.30pm (Dh100)
Photograph: Friday, 7pm-8.30pm (Dh150)
Karl Urban
Best known as: Dr. Leonard “Bones” McCoy in Star Trek
Autograph: Friday, 2.30pm–4pm (Dh150)
Photograph: Friday, 5pm–6.30pm (Dh200)
Autograph: Saturday, 1.30pm–2pm (Dh150)
Photograph: Saturday, 5pm–6pm (Dh200)
Kristian Nairn
Best known as: Hodor in Game of Thrones
Autograph: Friday, 3pm–4pm (Dh100)
Photograph: Friday, 17.30pm-18.30pm (Dh150)
Autograph: Saturday, 14.30pm-15.30pm (Dh100)
Photograph: Saturday, 12pm-1pm (Dh150)
Jason David Frank
Best known as: The Green Power Ranger
Autograph: Thursday, 5pm-6.30pm (Dh150)
Photograph: Thursday, 4pm-5pm (Dh200)
Autograph: Friday, 2.30pm-4pm (Dh150)
Photograph: Friday, 1pm-2pm (Dh200)
Autograph: Saturday, 12pm-1.30pm (Dh150)
Photograph: Saturday, 4pm-5pm (Dh200)
We need to talk
MEFCC offers panel discussions on various topics, from voice acting to comic books. And for those who’d like to hear celebrity guests discuss their life’s work, Ezra Miller, Karl Urban, Kristian Nairn and Jason David Frank will all be sitting down for moderated talks at Roxy Cineclub. The sessions are first come, first served and free to attend.
A schedule of select events, subject to change:
7pm on Thursday: Go Go Power Rangers — In conversation with Jason David Frank
12.30pm on Friday: Hold the Door! In conversation with Kristian Nairn
3.30pm on Saturday: I’m a Doctor, not the law — In conversation with Karl Urban
6pm on Saturday: Back in a Flash! — In conversation with Ezra Miller
Watch the galactic pilot of ‘Lost in Space’
At 2pm on Friday, watch the first episode of Netflix’s upcoming sci-fi reboot of Lost in Space, followed by a panel discussion with the cast members. Toby Stephens (John Robinson), Molly Parker (Maureen Robinson), Mina Sundwall (Penny Robinson), Taylor Russell (Judy Robinson) and Max Jenkins (Will Robinson) will join fans post-screening for an audience Q&A. The cast will also hold a free-of-charge photo op and signing session from 4.45-5.15pm. The series premieres worldwide on April 13.
Winner, winner, cosplay dinner
This year’s annual cosplaying contest will take place on the WAVO Mainstage on Friday, from 6pm until 10pm. Head down to check out the convention’s most creative and ambitiously dressed visitors, vying for the title of best costume. Plus, get a printed photograph with your favourite character as a souvenir.
A decade of Marvel films
Take a walk down memory lane (or start to feel old?) at the Marvel 10 Year Anniversary stand. From Iron Man and Captain American to Thor and Black Panther, celebrate a decade of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which has given fans eighteen movies since its inception. Plus, take photos next to posters of the MCU’s biggest stars.
Nod twice for yes
In a first for MEFCC, the con has teamed up with popular toy manufacturer Funko to sell exclusive Funko Pop bobble heads that are unavailable anywhere else in the world. We spotted a few Stranger Things, Overwatch, Avengers and Game of Thrones collectibles on MEFCC’s social media. (There was also an adorable miniature Stan Lee, the man who started it all.)
Good, clean, mind-bending fun
This year, Jumble, a puzzle-based escape-room experience, is jumping in on the fun by making its first appearance at MEFCC. Gather your most competitive friends, build a tight-knit crew of problem-solvers and fight against the clock to make it through the maze.
The hottest comedy skit in town — literally
Voice actors Ray Chase, Robbie Daymond and Max Mittelman will join forces for an interactive comedy skit named L.A.V.A. at 4pm on Saturday, on the WAVO Mainstage. The production, which can run between 60 and 90 minutes, has been described as silly, ever-changing and high energy, with plenty of audience participation, multimedia elements and even a few gift giveaways.
Music lovers, assemble
For those who fancy a music break, head to the Wavo Mainstage to check out some regional and global talent. Headlining on Thursday at 9pm are rock group The Naser Mestarihi Band, and on Friday at 6pm, The Boxtones. On Saturday, check out Lady J & The Royal Vegabonds at 3pm, and a DJ Set from Hodor himself as Kristian Nairn takes over the decks at 6pm.
Who has two thumbs and loves arcade games?
This nerd. If you’re a pinball master, look no further than the dedicated arcade section this year. You’ll be able to play a variety of retro pinball games themed after your favourite classics, from Star Wars: Episode IV A New Hope, Mortal Kombat, Sonic the Hedgehog, Super Mario Bros, Street Fighter II Turbo, Pacman, Golden Axe, Donkey Kong, Space Invaders and Marvel Super Heroes.
Martial arts masterclass with a Power Ranger
Green Power Ranger Jason David Frank will be showing off some karate moves on the Wavo Mainstage at 2pm on Saturday. Maybe he’ll morph before our very eyes.
Great — when do I show up?
The convention will be open on…
April 5
12pm — 2pm (Media, Power Pass, VIP and Super VIP entry only)
2pm — 10pm
April 6
11am — 10pm
April 7
11am — 9pm
Advance tickets for MEFCC are Dh110 per day, or Dh250 for a three-day pass. Tickets bought at the door are Dh140 per day, or Dh300 per pass.
