The final headliner has just been announced…

From A-list celebrities to world-renowned artists, here’s why you don’t want to miss the Middle East Film And Comic Con when it arrives at Dubai World Trade Centre from April 6 to 8.

Plus, What’s On’s top tips for making the most of the day…

01. The A-list talent

Since it began six years ago, Comic Con has attracted some of the biggest names in pop culture, both classic and contemporary. This year is no different.

This year’s big headliner has just been announced too… it’s Anthony Mackie, aka Sam Wilson or Falcon in The Avengers movies. There’s also going to be a live Skype broadcast with writer, director and geek culture aficianado Kevin Smith.

Anthony Mackie was one of the best things about the last Avengers movie.

We’ll also be queuing up to see Games Of Thrones fan favourite Liam Cunningham, aka Davos Seaworth, as well as Star Wars: The Force Awakens star Greg Grunberg (you might recognise him from Lost, Heroes and The Flash) and The Walking Dead‘s Josh McDermitt. 

Liam ‘Davos’ Cunningham will be there.

02. Artists Alley

In Artists Alley, you can see some of the pop culture world’s most talented people at work, and even pick up some limited-edition prints. This year will feature appearances from Disney’s Tom Bancroft, the artist behind hits such as Aladdin, Mulan and The Lion King, Angel comic’s Rod Thornton and comic book superstar Simone Bianchi, who’s worked on the Green Lantern, Wolverine, The Amazing Spider-Man and more.

03. Cosplay Competition

It wouldn’t be Comic Con without some brilliant cosplay, as amateur fans and professional cosplayers don their most impressive fancy dress. You’ll see some of your favourite TV and film characters wandering around the exhibitions and even competing in the annual Cosplay Competition. This year’s contest will be judged by award-winning cosplayer Nicole Marie Jean.

04. The best of Star Trek

Last year marked the 50th anniversary of Star Trek, and to celebrate, 50 artists were commissioned to create work based on the beloved film and TV show. The exhibition Star Trek: 50 Artists. 50 Years will be on display and will even feature a piece by the late Leonard Nimoy, aka Spock.

05. The workshops

Fancy picking up some new skills or just listening to stories from your favourite stars? At the Comic Con workshops, you can do both. This year, one of the featured artists is Disney’s James C Mulligan, who’ll be teaching fans how to draw their favourite Disney characters.

COSPLAY

Our predictions for the fancy dress costumes that will rule Comic Con this year…

Stranger Things

We’re still obsessed with this Netflix hit, although we’re not sure if anyone will go as far as an Eleven-style shaved head. Eggos optional.

Star Wars

It wouldn’t be Comic Con without a few Darth Vaders, Princess Leias and Chewbaccas wandering around, and with the recent success of Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, it’s guaranteed.

Game Of Thrones

Davos himself (Liam Cunningham) will be appearing, so what better time to pay tribute to George RR Martin’s iconic show with an elaborate costume?

Star Trek

With the Star Trek: 50 Years. 50 Artists exhibition set to take place, we wouldn’t be surprised to see fans suiting up for a trip on the SS Enterprise.

Ghostbusters

The ’80s original still holds up to a rewatch and the recent all-female remake introduced a new generation to the ghost-busting team.

TIPS

– Get there early. It’s incredible how quickly the exhibition hall fills up, so if you want some elbowroom to browse, make it a morning mission.

– For hardcore fans, you might want to splash out on the VIP pass, which gives you early access and express lines for celeb meet and greets (as well as a goodie bag worth Dhs900)

– There are two main ways to meet your fave stars: getting a signed autograph, or getting a (paid-for) photograph. However, also check the schedule of workshops and talks. These events are rarely crowded and a great way to spend time listening to your favourite stars and maybe asking them some questions.

– Bring cash – it just makes it easier when it comes to paying for signings, photos and merch. Having said that, keep an eye on platinumlist.net, where you’ll have opportunities to purchase signings ahead of time.

– Parking is available but it’s expensive if you’re planning to spend the whole day. Take a taxi or metro instead.

Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, Dhs100 for day pass, Dhs300 for a three-day pass, Dhs500 for a VIP three-day pass. Tel: (04) 4573212. Metro: Trade Centre. mefcc.com

Here’s a look at one of the past years to give you an idea of what you can look forward too…