Comic Con Arabia [1] (often abbreviated as CCA) is an annual pop culture convention held in Saudi Arabia, catering to enthusiasts of comics, movies, TV shows, anime, sci-fi, cosplay, video games, and various other forms of entertainment. The event serves as a platform for fans, creators, and industry professionals to come together, celebrate their shared passions, and engage in a wide range of activities.

It was held for the first time on November 23, 2017, in Riyadh, and it has brought high- profile guests. The convention later resumed virtually in 2020-2021, and continued its face-to-face engagement on October 20, 2022, at the Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center. The latest edition happened last November 30, 2023, at the same convention center.

History[edit | edit source]

Comic Con Arabia is the ultimate pop culture festival in Saudi Arabia, organized by THE1 (formerly Panache). It unites fans, creators, and celebrities worldwide, showcasing diverse aspects of pop culture such as comics, manga, anime, film, TV, Sci-Fi, video games, and cosplay. As the Kingdom's largest celebration, Comic Con Arabia brings the dynamic world of the pop culture scene to the forefront.

Comic Con Arabia 2023, held last November 30 to December 1, showcased the vibrant world of pop culture at the Jeddah International Exhibition and Convention Center. CCA invited iconic actors Stephen Amell, Steven John Ward, Mackenyu, Lilani Shiu, Lexi Rabe, and Alex Garfin; comic book illustrators Mostafa Moussa, Hiroshi Kanatani, and Chad Hardin; authors Shaun & Naomi Barrowes and Rachel Litfin; and voice actors Lisle Wilkerson, Dolya Gavanski, Kristi Rothrock, and John Gremillion; in addition to cosplayers Leon Chiro, Elizabeth Rage, Jinxie Cosplay, Sakuraflor, and HarFie; and SFX makeup artists Tanios Hokayem and Rony Yucef.

Comic Con Arabia 2022, held from October 20 to 22, 2022, at the Jeddah International Exhibition & Convention Center, welcomed the actors Georgia Hirst, Luka Perošt, Itziar Ituño, Alexander Ludwig, and cosplayers Taryn Cosplay, Sakuraflor, and HarFie; samurai performances by Tetsuro Shimaguchi; voice actors Lisle Wilkerson, Kyle Hebert, Richard Epicar, and Bryson Baugus; comic book illustrators Hiroshi Nagahama; "The Weapons Master", Tommy Dunne; and wrestler Cinta "Sin Cara" De Oro.

Comic Con Arabia 2020-2021 was a unique edition due to COVID-19 pandemic. It was the first ever virtual CCA that was broadcasted on the Comic Con Arabia YouTube channel. Activities included a master class with Michael "KNIGHTMAGE" and Sakuraflor, a Q&A session with Cavin "Spiderman", and an e-cosplay competition.

Features[edit | edit source]

Comic Con Arabia offers a comprehensive experience for attendees, encompassing a wide array of pop culture elements. Some of the key features of the convention include: Cosplay Competition: Comic Con Arabia presents the ideal opportunity to showcase all the remarkable cosplay skills, starting from creating the costume to the performance. Meet and Greet with Celebrity Guests: Comic Con Arabia event offers an incredible

opportunity to meet your favorite celebrity guests. Experience the excitement of beingnear stars from beloved movies and TV shows, and capture a memorable selfie!Panel Discussions: Renowned experts and creators will openly share their insights andexclusive secrets during engaging panel discussions. Whether it's analyzing the latestMarvel movie or exploring the profound impact of sci-fi on pop culture, these panels arean absolute must for devoted fans.

Fan Art Gallery: This hidden gem brims with awe-inspiring fantasy and sci-fi artwork. It

allows the fan to explore extraordinary masterpieces, connect with exceptionallytalented artists, and witness live art performances by featured artists across the region.eSports and Gaming: Comic Con Arabia organizes eSports competitions for gamers topush the boundaries of skill and strategy. In the adrenaline-fueled arena, players battle itacross popular titles such as FC24, Fortnite, MWIII, Street Fighter, Mortal Kombat, SuperMario Smash, and others.

Artist Alley: As a vital element of the convention, Artist Alley embodies our commitmentto empowering independent retailers, providing them unparalleled opportunities toshowcase their unique products and build lasting connections with a diverse and apassionate audience.

CCA Village: Comic Con Arabia Village is where fans experience good food and greatmusic as they get serenaded by local and international artists while indulging deliciousfood.