The ultimate Japanese experience… 

If you have a passion for pop culture, there’s one place to be this weekend, and that’s Expo City Dubai for the inaugural JPEX event. The three-day celebration takes place from April 25 to 27 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, and celebrates all things anime, gaming and Japanese culture.

During the event, you can expect to see some global voice actors, partake in gaming tournaments, dress up for cosplay competitions, and immerse yourself in Japanese cultural showcases.

And it’s not just for children. The event is open for fans of all ages and backgrounds – the perfect opportunity to meet some new friends. Whether you’re a long-time fan, or just starting out, you’re sure to feel connected and inspired.

The event is the brainchild of four young Emiratis with a shared passion for pop culture. It is independently developed without corporate sponsorship or backing from major event companies. The founders hope to make it an annual event, fueling the love for pop culture in the city (and even the country).

*The wait is over: teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi is now open*

So, who can you meet at JPEX?

Some of the most prominent names in the world of voice acting from Japan and the Arab world will be at the event.

This includes, Hiroshi Kitadani, vocalist behind several opening songs of One Piece; Ryusei Nakao who is known for his role as Frieza (Dragon Ball Z), Mayuri (Bleach), and Caesar Clown (One Piece), and Showtaro Morikubo, the voice of Shikamaru (Naruto), Yosuke (Persona 4), and Makoto (Free!).

Arabic voice actress, Amal Saadeddin will also be at the event. She is the voice behind characters in Detective Conan, Pokémon, Sonic the Hedgehog, and Doraemon.

*Arab Cinema Week is back at Cinema Akil this May*

Expect to see them perform on stage and do live voice-acting. You can even meet these stars as there are meet-and-greet sessions.

What else can you do?

You can’t attend a pop-culture event, and not expect people to come dressed up. And if you do, there are competitions where your creativity will be judged by regional and international judges.

For art lovers, make sure you explore the dedicated artist alley, and partake in cultural activities including kimono experiences, tea ceremonies, and Japanese calligraphy.

There will also be plenty of opportunities to snap up some cool snaps for a photo memory, or you can even shop at the vendor marketplace.

For gamers, there’s gaming tournaments for Tekken, FC 25, Super Smash Bros., Pokémon TCG, and One Piece TCG. Time for some button-mashing fun!

And don’t forget to make a pitstop at the food courts for a bite to keep the hunger pangs at bay.

Tickets are on sale here for a price of Dhs105 per day. Opt for the three-day pass for Dhs265 to save your dirhams.

JPEX, Expo City Dubai, Dubai Exhibition Centre, Dubai, April 25 to 27, from Dhs105. @jpexme

Images: Unsplash and Visit Dubai