Amin Abbas
The 1st edition of “Cosplay Con” event was held on October 5 and 6 in Abu Dhabi.
Organized by Al Wahda Mall in Abu Dhabi in partnership with Cosplay.ae, the two-day event brought fans to meet up with amazing cosplayers, performers, content creators, influencers as well as a chance to win amazing a prize pool worth Dhs 25,000.
The event featured various activities such as: Cosplay competitions, parades, catwalks, live performances, dance performances, cosplay karaoke, panel meet & greets, games, giveaways, and much more.
Mohamed Saeed Al Ansari, Founder of Cosplay.ae said exclusively to Arab News Japan about the event: “The main features were showcasing the talents of our cosplayers not only just of UAE but internationally as well as other GCC countries and globally. We had also invited an international guest judge panel from Canada, Fear Fiction, Saudi Arabia WCCS Team Winner Hesakura, and M7 Cosplay from India. We had cosplay competitions for both days that had prize pool worth of Dhs 25,000.
“We also had an amazing line up of performers such as: Horizon, idol group ‘Tidal Idols’, Live Singers Miranda Fae and Voices of Vish that serenades the crowd. We also had panels with judges, first ever cosplay debate, stage workshops wig styling and crafting etc”.
“We also had influencers with over 3 million followers and subscribers in social media such as Zee cosplay, thatanimemom, and Ritika Vasu. We had everything all in one that makes this event very special, unique and successful according to a lot of people,” he added.
About the challenges that were faced at the event, Al Ansari said: “We were very lucky to not have to face major issues in the community as everyone here supports and like what we do. Everyone in the UAE community thankfully trusts us and we have built a strong foundation and connection to the people that can never be ruined. The event went smoothly, with the diverse people that share one passion: the love of Anime and Cosplay!”.
About the response and feedback from the visitors of the event, Al Ansari said: “Response was overwhelmingly positive and we at Cosplay.ae are so grateful to have this opportunity to share our love for cosplay, because even our founder, Mohamed Saeed Al Ansari is a cosplayer himself, and Cosplay.ae goal is to give amazing, safe and open platform for cosplayers to share their love for craft!”.
Regarding Cosplay.ae upcoming projects, Al Ansari said: “There will be a lot of things and events to watch out for so make sure to stay tune to Cosplay.ae on Instagram for more details! Al Wahda Mall in partnership with COSPLAY AE has a vision to create a long-lasting relationship and impact in the community providing home and spaces for anime enthusiasts, artists, creators and more to shine and create things for themselves, encourage and let other people know how anime and cosplay really mean and how fun it really is”.
Mohamed Saeed Darwish Al Ansari is an Emirati international cosplayer who have ventured beyond the boundaries of local scene, having attended the biggest anime conventions outside the UAE such as: Dokomi in Germany and other more in the Middle East. He is a crafter, businessman, leader and definitely a role model in the UAE Art community.
Cosplay.ae has become a trusted name in the industry, known for their commitment to, innovation, and customer satisfaction. They believe in fostering a vibrant community where cosplayers can connect, share ideas, and inspire one another. With the team’s extensive experience and dedication, and their founder who continues to lead Cosplay.ae into exciting new horizons, making the cosplay experience accessible and enjoyable for everyone.
With over 40 events in the GCC, Cosplay.ae stands tall as the only organization that has been entrusted by cosplayers to bring unique and new things to the table. They are always the first call in every event and They are very honored to share this same passion with each and every cosplayer.