Anime fans across the region can mark their calendars—Animenia Abu Dhabi is officially returning from 11 to 15 February 2026, promising a five-day celebration of anime, gaming, music, food, and immersive pop culture experiences. The event, organized by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, will once again transform Manarat Al Saadiyat into a Neo-Tokyo-inspired hub filled with lights, creativity, and community spirit.
The 2026 edition aims to elevate every part of the festival experience, with larger-scale installations, expanded gaming zones, and more international talent. Attendees can expect live J-Pop and Anisong performances, interactive stage shows, exclusive merchandise releases, and themed food zones serving up a fusion of Japanese and global street eats.
A major highlight this year will be the Animenia Cosplay Competition, which returns with a record-breaking AED 400,000 prize pool, one of the largest cosplay rewards in the Middle East. Set for 15 February, the competition invites both local and international participants to take the stage and showcase their creativity through intricate costumes and performances. Awards will include Best in Craftsmanship, Best in Performance, and Animenia’s Spark Award, celebrating originality and showmanship across solo and group categories.
Registration for the competition is open until 15 January 2026 via www.animeniaabudhabi.com, with early interest already generating excitement among the regional cosplay community.
Beyond the contests, the festival will immerse visitors in full-scale anime scene recreations, themed streets, and fan-driven installations designed to bring the essence of modern Japanese pop culture to life. Fans can explore nostalgic anime references alongside new-generation hits, take photos in cinematic settings, and meet voice actors and artists from across the global anime industry.
Now in its second edition, Animenia has become one of the region’s most anticipated pop culture events, bridging the worlds of art, gaming, and fandom. The festival’s combination of live entertainment, collectible drops, and interactive spaces positions it as a major cultural moment for fans of all ages.
Event details:
Dates: 11 – 15 February 2026
Location: Manarat Al Saadiyat, Abu Dhabi
Registration: Open until 15 January 2026 at www.animeniaabudhabi.com
Get ready for a week where Abu Dhabi transforms into a vibrant anime metropolis — complete with neon streets, costumed heroes, and the contagious energy of a city celebrating creativity and fandom.
