DUBAI: Get ready to power up! Dubai is launching a brand-new pop culture event — JPEX Entertainment Exhibition (JPEX) — a three-day celebration of anime, gaming, cosplay, and authentic Japanese culture. It runs from April 25 to 27 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre in Expo City.
What makes JPEX stand out? It’s entirely homegrown. Four young Emiratis with a shared love for anime and pop culture have built this event from scratch — no big sponsors, no corporate machinery, just pure fandom fuel. Their dream? To make JPEX Dubai’s biggest and most beloved annual pop culture festival.
The event promises something for everyone — whether you’re a seasoned otaku or just starting to explore this vibrant world. Expect cosplay competitions, gaming tournaments, cultural workshops, and a buzzing artist alley. There’s even a marketplace for merchandise hunters and a food court for those craving Japanese street eats.
Voice-acting royalty will headline the event, including:
- Hiroshi Kitadani, famed for One Piece opening themes
- Ryusei Nakao, voice of Frieza (Dragon Ball Z)
- Showtaro Morikubo, Shikamaru from Naruto
- Amal Saadeddin, Arabic voice star from Detective Conan and Doraemon
These stars will perform, voice act live, and meet fans face-to-face.
Gamers can dive into competitions for Tekken, FC 25, Super Smash Bros., and trading card games like Pokémon and One Piece TCG. Meanwhile, cultural experiences such as kimono wearing, calligraphy, and tea ceremonies bring a taste of Japan to the heart of Dubai.
With photo zones, interactive areas, workshops, and a celebration of creativity at every corner, JPEX is more than an event — it’s a pop culture playground.
