Calling All Heroes (and Villains!) Get ready, pop culture fans! The Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC) is making its epic return to Abu Dhabi from April 18-20, 2025, at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi – and it’s shaping up to be a showstopper! The first wave of celebrity guests has been announced, and it’s already looking legendary. I have all the star-studded details you want to know, so keep reading to find out more!
A Star Wars Legend To Walk Among Us
Leading the charge, in the 13th edition of MEFCC, is none other than Ian McDiarmid, the iconic actor behind Emperor Palpatine (a.k.a. Darth Sidious) in every Star Wars trilogy. Whether you love him or fear him, his presence at MEFCC 2025 promises an unforgettable Star Wars weekend. Fans across the region will have the rare chance to meet the mastermind of the Dark Side himself! This is one opportunity you won’t want to pass up.

The Man Behind Your Favourite Animes
Japanese voice-acting superstar Hideo Ishikawa is also making his way to the star-studded MEFCC lineup! Best known for voicing Itachi Uchiha in Naruto, Ishikawa has also brought to life Toyotomi Hideyoshi (Samurai Warriors), Kyo-ya Onizuka (Aesthetica of a Rogue Hero), and even iconic gaming characters like Squall Leonhart and Auron from Final Fantasy. If you’re an anime lover, this is your moment!

A Pop Culture Wonderland In The Heart Of Middle East
MEFCC 2025 in Abu Dhabi is set to be the biggest and most diverse edition yet! Whether you’re a die-hard collector, a casual fan, or a cosplayer ready to show off your best look, this festival has something for everyone. Loy Pinheiro, Show Director of The Middle East Film & Comic Con 2025, summed it up best by saying: “From casual fans to devoted collectors, we’ve created an experience that celebrates every aspect of pop culture with something for everyone.” Now, if that doesn’t get your energy pumping for this April then I don’t know what will – but if you need a little more convincing, here’s a sneak peek at all the incredible things in store just for you:
- Epic Cosplay Battles: Suit up and show off your best costume!
- Gaming Arena: Compete or watch live-action gaming face-offs.
- Collectors’ Paradise: Hunt for rare treasures in an expansive marketplace.
- Kids Zone: Fun activities for the little superheroes in your life.
- Outdoor Festival Plaza: Live entertainment, competitions, and interactive experiences.
- Bookworm Lounge: A haven for fantasy, sci-fi, and graphic novel lovers.
- Mainstage Events: Celebrity talks, community panels, and fun quizzes.
- Meet the Stars: Get up close with your favorite celebrities.
- Japanese Village: Dive into anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture.

Get Your Tickets Before They’re Gone!
Ultimate VIP tickets sold out in record time, but VIP and standard tickets are still available. Don’t miss your chance to be part of this massive celebration!
- Standard Tickets:
- 1-Day Pass (Friday & Sunday) – AED 150
- 1-Day Pass (Saturday) – AED 185
- 3-Day Pass – AED 395
- VIP Tickets:
- Ultimate VIP – AED 5600 (SOLD OUT)
- Super VIP – AED 2600
- VIP – AED 1000
To grab your tickets and for more details, visit The Middle East Film & Comic Con’s website. Follow @mefcc & @gulfbuzz to stay updated with all the latest and greatest MEFCC details! Don’t miss out – grab your friends and family and join the community at the region’s largest pop culture festival #MEFCC2025!