Meet life-sized gorillas, anacondas, and sharks up close with free admission
Explore ancient fossils and learn fascinating facts from August 20th to September 20th
Enjoy exciting games with your family every Saturday and Sunday
ABU DHABI, UAE – This back-to-school season, Mushrif Mall invites families to embark on a prehistoric journey with “Kingdom of Beasts”, a captivating free-admission exhibition running from August 20th to September 20th, 2025.
The immersive experience begins at the entrance, where a massive gorilla greets visitors, setting the stage for an extraordinary adventure. Guests are then guided by an enormous anaconda through interactive displays toward towering shark exhibits, before reaching hands-on fossil stations to explore ancient discoveries and learn fascinating facts about nature’s most powerful creatures.
Adding to the excitement, the event will feature weekend carnival games for the whole family, held every Saturday and Sunday from 7:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Mr. Biju George, General Manager of Line Investments and Property, explained: “Kingdom of Beasts reflects our dedication to enriching community spaces. We see great value in bringing events that focus on engagement while combining entertainment and education, creating a dynamic experience for all ages.”
Mr. Riyas Cherichi, General Manager of Mushrif Mall, noted: “We are excited to host Kingdom of Beasts as it perfectly aligns with our vision of making Mushrif Mall a destination for both recreation and entertainment. This event showcases our ongoing commitment to delivering meaningful and memorable family experiences.”
The kingdom is waiting to be explored. Discover the awe, power, and wonder of nature’s most magnificent beasts.
Initiative supported byShaikh Ali Abdalla Rashid Nasir Almulla and International Opera Singer Inva Mula.
In a world increasingly fractured by conflict and uncertainty, the launch of the World Park for Peace in Dubai offers a timely and powerful symbol of hope, unity, and sustainability. Set within the historic Al Fahidi area, the park is an immersive exhibition that speaks a universal language – the language of peace through the eyes and imagination of children. The park opening was attended by well known local Emirati artist,Shaikh Ali Abdalla Rashid Nasir Almulla and International Opera Singer, Inva Mula.
The World Park for Peace invites visitors on a moving journey through creatively curated spaces that reflect the core elements of the universe. Each room has been transformed to evoke emotion and inspiration, showcasing the profound connection between humanity, nature, and our shared future. At the heart of this experience is a global collection of more than 200,000 drawings till today from over 152 countries, a visual testament to the universal yearning for peace.
This monumental initiative stems from a decade-long movement led by the Association Colors for Peace. Over the past ten years, children aged 4 to 12 from every continent have contributed their visions of peace, resulting in one of the world’s most extensive children’s art archives dedicated to harmony and understanding.
Founder Aurela Cuku, whose vision brought the World Park for Peace to life, expressed the deeper mission behind the project. “In a time when the world is seeking answers, we are choosing to listen to the quiet voices of children. These are voices that imagine a world without war, without fear, and without division,” said Cuku. “The World Park for Peace is not just an exhibition; it is a call to action. It is a tangible space where nations connect without borders, where art becomes diplomacy, and where children lead the way toward a peaceful tomorrow.”
The transformation of the House of Peace honors Dubai’s heritage while creating a global dialogue rooted in innocence, creativity, and sustainable values. As the UAE continues to champion cultural tolerance and coexistence, this landmark project is set to become a cornerstone of international cultural diplomacy and a beacon of inspiration for generations to come.
The World Park for Peace is now partly open to the public, offering a unique and timely opportunity to witness the extraordinary power of art, imagination, and unity — through the eyes of a child.
Pop culture enthusiasts across the UAE are in for a treat as COMICAVE™ prepares to host an action-packed weekend celebrating Free Comic Book Day and Star Wars Day. Taking place on May 3rd and 4th at the Dubai Outlet Mall Dome Area, the two-day extravaganza promises an unforgettable experience for fans of comics, gaming, and galactic adventure.
Running from 12:00 PM to 9:00 PM each day, the free-to-attend event will feature an array of immersive activities designed to entertain visitors of all ages. Guests can look forward to special free comic book giveaways, offering a selection of exclusive titles and collector’s editions as part of the global Free Comic Book Day initiative.
Adding to the excitement, international comic artists from major publishing houses including Marvel and DC Comics will be present for meet-and-greet sessions, live signings, and art demonstrations, giving fans a rare opportunity to interact with the creative minds behind their favorite characters.
In celebration of Star Wars Day (May the 4th), the event will showcase Star Wars cosplay encounters, where attendees can meet and snap photos with professional cosplayers portraying iconic heroes and villains from a galaxy far, far away.
The festivities continue with tabletop gaming demos, offering visitors the chance to test their skills with popular board games, including Star Wars-themed titles. Competitive spirits will also thrive with TCG (Trading Card Game) showdowns and Beyblade tournaments, providing thrilling challenges for players of all levels.
Throughout the weekend, attendees can participate in live competitions, raffle draws for a chance to win exclusive merchandise and limited-edition collectibles. With something for everyone, from families and collectors to gamers and lifelong fans, the COMICAVE™ celebration is set to be one of Dubai’s most vibrant pop culture event of the season.
Admission is free, making it the ultimate weekend destination for anyone looking to celebrate creativity, fandom, and the spirit of adventure.
For more information, visit www.comicave.com or follow @ComicaveUAE on social media.
As NARUTO THE GALLERY prepares to close its doors this weekend, fans of the beloved anime are invited to immerse themselves one last time in the world of Naruto Uzumaki. From April 4th to April 6th, 2025, visitors will have their final opportunity to explore exclusive content crafted by renowned artists such as Nina Ai, Kohei Kadowaki, Kosuke Sugimoto, Kohta Morie, and Que at the Concourse Convention Center, Dubai Outlet Mall, Level 1.
This closing weekend is not only a celebration of Naruto’s journey but also features a vibrant array of activities including a Cosplay Catwalk, Quiz Night, Japanese calligraphy and origami workshops, a Trade Night for TCGs (trading cards), and a unique marketplace for Japanese-culture enthusiasts. The event promises to send off The Naruto Gallery with the excitement it deserves.
Exclusive gallery original goods, only available at the event, will be on sale for those looking to own a piece of limited-edition Naruto merch. Additionally, all ticket holders will be entered into a raffle to win an exclusive Event Book, autographed by Junko Takeuchi, the voice of Naruto.
“We are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm and love shown by Naruto fans throughout the exhibition’s run,” said Ahmad Khalifa, CEO of Akiba. “This final weekend is our way of celebrating not just Naruto’s legacy but also the community that has grown around it. We invite everyone to join us for one last adventure into the Hidden Leaf Village.”
Image courtesy of NARUTO THE GALLERY exhibition in Akihabara, Japan
Closing weekend geek activations include the Cosplay Catwalk, Quiz Night, Japanese calligraphy and origami, Trade Night for TCGs (trading cards), and a marketplace for geeks and Japanese-culture enthusiasts. Don’t miss your last chance to experience this unique blend of art, culture, and entertainment. Tickets are available online through Platinumlist and at the venue.
Event Details:
Event Name: NARUTO THE GALLERY
Dates: April 4 – 6, 2025
Venue: The Concourse Convention Center, First floor, near Dubai Outlet Mall
Tickets: Starting at AED 60, available at Platinumlist and at the venue
Celebrating over 20 years of the global anime sensation NARUTO, fans in the Middle East will have a rare opportunity to experience the iconic world of their favorite ninja, as NARUTO THE GALLERY experience makes its debut outside of Japan, for the first time in Dubai. This unique experience, direct from Tokyo, will run from January 31 to April 6, 2025, at The Concourse Convention Center, near the Dubai Outlet Mall, marking the first time outside East Asia that the beloved anime’s legacy will be celebrated on this scale.
Created to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the NARUTO anime’s debut in Japan, this immersive experience takes fans on a journey through the series’ iconic moments, themes, and characters. Featuring vivid life-size installations and exclusive artwork from the animation, NARUTO THE GALLERY offers an opportunity to step into Naruto Uzumaki’s world, including rare behind-the-scenes content from the series’ origins. From the vibrant landscapes of Konoha (Hidden Leaf Village) to unforgettable battles and intimate character portrayals, visitors can relive every pivotal moment of the beloved anime.
Experience Includes:
● Authentic Artifacts and Original Artwork: View never-before-seen concept art and materials used in creating the series, transported directly from Japan
● Interactive Displays: Fans can engage with iconic scenes and immerse themselves into the universe of NARUTO through dynamic video presentations on large screens and multiple monitors.
● Fans can engage with iconic scenes and participate in interactive exhibits that immerse them into the universe of NARUTO
● Exclusive Merchandise: Limited-edition NARUTO memorabilia and exclusive merchandise, making it a must-visit for any anime fan
As a landmark event for regional anime fans, NARUTO THE GALLERY reflects the global influence of Japanese anime and its cultural crossover appeal. With Dubai known as a bridge between East and West, this event reinforces the city’s position as a hub for innovative and world-class entertainment experiences.
Ticketing & Venue Information: This is a ticketed event, with tickets starting at AED 60 per person. Tickets can be purchased online through Platinumlist or at the venue itself. The exhibition will be held in The Concourse Convention Center, which is seamlessly connected to the Dubai Outlet Mall.
“We’re thrilled to be partnering with NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee to bring such an authentic and original experience to Dubai,” said Ahmad Khalifa, CEO, Akiba. “Al Ahli Group and Akiba are committed to growing the pop-culture scene in the region, spanning from West Asia to Africa, and introducing year long, themed experiences and events, celebrating various iconic properties. And kicking off our series of events with NARUTO THE GALLERY, is extra special, as we celebrate NARUTO’s 20-year legacy by creating an incredible experience for anime fans in the region to connect with the series on a personal level.”
“We are truly honored to bring NARUTO THE GALLERY to Dubai as its next destination. Through this exhibition, we hope to provide as many fans as possible with an opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich history and legacy of NARUTO,” said the NARUTO THE GALLERY Executive Committee.
Event Details:
● Event Name: NARUTO THE GALLERY
● Dates: January 31, 2025 – April 6, 2025
● Venue: The Concourse Convention Center, First floor Dubai Outlet Mall
● Tickets: Starting at AED 60, available at Platinumlist and at the venue
● Operating Hours: 12pm – 10pm (weekdays); 12pm – 11pm (weekends, Ramadan and Eid Al Fitr)
The 7th META Cinema Forum kicked off today at the Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, bringing together cinema leaders and innovators from across the META region. Opening with remarks from Lara Tan, Conference Director at Great Minds Group, and Paul Schwarz, Technical Director at Dubai Acoustic Research Laboratory, the forum set a strong tone for exploring the future of cinema in the Middle East and Africa.
The first day included a panel discussion that addressed the role of government and new strategies aimed at fostering a holistic film culture and supporting the movie industry alongside the creative economy. The discussion covered various aspects, including the establishment of new authorities and mandates, funding institutions, state-of-the-art facilities and infrastructure, and educational platforms to nurture talent. Moderated by Rory McLoughlin, Founder of Like Minds, the panel featured industry leaders Sameer Al Jaberi, Nader Al Rawahy, Georges Khouri, and Nancy Paton.
Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner at GM Events, reflected on the forum’s significance: “This year’s META Cinema Forum has been all about innovation and collaboration. We’re creating a space where the region’s rich cultural narratives are celebrated alongside groundbreaking technologies. The positive response to the META Cinema Forum has been incredible, and it’s inspiring to see how much the event has grown over the years. Each edition brings together an increasingly diverse and passionate group of industry leaders, innovators, and creators, which reflects the region’s commitment to building a world-class cinema culture. This year’s forum showcases how far we’ve come in terms of technology, storytelling, and audience engagement. It’s a powerful reminder of the impact we can have as an industry when we unite to share knowledge, foster partnerships, and embrace new ideas.”
The day also saw exciting project updates, including a presentation from VOX Cinemas and panel discussions on immersive technologies, AI in filmmaking, and future cinema design. Day 1 ended on a high note with exclusive screenings and networking sessions, setting the stage for another impactful day ahead.
As the premier platform for cinema stakeholders in the META region, the 7th META Cinema Forum is ideal for anyone invested in the future of cinema. The forum is also featuring a trade show, networking opportunities, and exclusive screenings, including a highly anticipated 2025 blockbuster preview.
The 7th edition of the META Cinema Forum, the largest cinema convention in the Middle East and Africa, will take place in Dubai on November 11-12, 2024, at Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre, Dubai, U.A.E. Organized by GM Events, the event will bring together top leaders, innovators, and stakeholders from the cinema industry to explore the latest trends, technologies, and strategies that will shape the future of cinema across the region.
After groundbreaking successes of the previous editions, the premier cinema convention for the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa will feature in-depth sessions on the latest statistics in cinema construction and infrastructure, updates on major cinema projects across the META region, and exclusive insights into box office trends. The cinema industry in the META region has seen remarkable growth, with box office revenues increasing by 20% annually and over 50 new cinemas opening each year.
This year, attendees will delve into advancements in cinema technology, explore the evolution of cinema architecture and mixed-use spaces, and participate in interactive industry insights sessions. Highlights include studio product presentations, special movie premieres, and the prestigious META Cinema Awards.
Leila Masinaei, Managing Partner at GM Events, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s META Cinema Forum, saying, “This year the event is about more than the latest technology and trends, it’s a platform for telling our own stories, rooted in the rich culture and diversity of our region. Bringing together creative minds and industry leaders, the forum enables us to share these narratives with the world. As we embrace new trending tools, we also carry the responsibility to tell impactful stories that resonate and endure. This is our moment to bring our region’s voice to the global stage.”
The event promises two days of insightful discussions, panel sessions, and presentations on key industry topics, ranging from box office performance to the latest in cinema technology and audience engagement strategies. With a stellar lineup of experts, the forum will feature high-profile speakers from global cinema giants, regional authorities, and leading industry stakeholders in panel discussions on government support, immersive technologies, cinema design and networking opportunities with industry leaders plus product presentations.
The forum will kick off with an insightful presentation by Maria Rua Aguete, Senior Research Director, Media and Entertainment at Omdia, who will delve into the latest cinema industry facts and statistics, providing a comprehensive analysis of global and regional box office performances. A series of panel discussions and presentations will explore the evolving role of government in fostering a holistic film culture, with esteemed speakers including Sameer Al Jaberi of Abu Dhabi Film Commission, and Georges Khouri of Tecom Group.
Highlights include the latest project updates from leading cinema chains like VOX Cinemas and Star Cinemas, engaging participants in discussions on enhancing cinema experiences through advanced technologies and innovative design. The day will culminate in exclusive screenings, offering delegates a first look at upcoming blockbusters.
Day 2 of the forum will focus on expanding the cinema industry through content diversity and strategic partnerships. Highlights include a panel on the demand for varied content, featuring discussions on the growth of Arab cinema and the importance of regional and international collaborations, followed by a fireside chat with Warner Bros.’ Toby Tennant on Hollywood’s role in shaping the META region’s cinema landscape and fostering future alliances.
As the premier platform for cinema stakeholders in the META region, the 7th META Cinema Forum is idealfor anyone invested in the future of cinema. The forum will also feature a trade show, networking opportunities, and exclusive screenings, including a highly anticipated 2025 blockbuster preview.
Following the success of the 6th Edition of META Cinema Forum, a cinematic extravaganza that unfolded from 7th to 8th November, the celebration continued with exclusive film screenings at City Centre Deira from 9th to 12th November and a special tour of the Soundstage at Dubai Studio City.
City Centre Deira, a key sponsor, transformed into a cinematic haven above Food Central. Attendees reveled in the comfort of bean bags while enjoying a curated selection of films not yet available to the general public. From the animated adventure “3 Little Kungpoo Goats” to the intense forest drama “Territory,” the screenings catered to diverse tastes.
Celebrating the Diwali weekend, the lineup included the courtroom thriller “A Holy Conspiracy,” the Kannada drama “Koli Esru,” and the gripping Malayalam film “Nishiddho,” offering attendees a unique blend of entertainment and celebration, along with Q&A sessions with cast and crew.
On Friday 10th November Dubai Studio City offered an exclusive “Tour of Soundstage” experience. Over 50 filmmakers and enthusiasts explored the state-of-the-art facilities at Soundstage, Dubai Studio City. The tour unveiled details of the facilities, benefits, and rebates available for filmmakers, solidifying Dubai Studio City’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in the film industry.
Leila Masinaei, META Cinema Forum Director and Managing Partner of Great Minds Group, expressed gratitude to the sponsors for their invaluable support in creating a memorable cinematic experience.
The META Cinema Forum, known for its dedication to emerging markets, successfully blended conferences, exclusive screenings, and sponsor activations, making it a must-attend event for cinema enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
Dubai, UAE – Women in Film and TV (WIFT) took the spotlight today at the 6th Edition of META Cinema Forum, the largest and most influential cinema convention in emerging markets at the prestigious Grand Hyatt in Dubai.
The day started with female panelists in a round table discussion on the business side of the film industry titled ‘Beyond the Glitz’. Panelists include Nancy Paton, Founder, Desert Rose Films and President of WIFTGCC, Charlotte Louise Sutcliffe, Entertainment Lawyer, Associate at CWB and Head of Events at WIFTGCC, Ozge Conduroglu, Acquisition & Distribution Lead, The Plot Pictures MENA and Ashleigh Potts, Marketing Director, Studio Distribution, Majid Al Futtaim LLC.
The ‘My Story My Voice’ panel with rising Female Emirati Filmmakers featured Emirati filmmakers Zainab Shaheen, Maitha Al Awadi, Eman Al Sayed and Sarraa Al Shehhi as panelists sharing their experiences.
This was followed by the WIFT MENA AWARDS sponsored by Rotana that celebrated the achievements of Women in Cinema after which, Nayla Al Khaja, Emirati Film Director talked about her journey and unveiling her new feature film.
During her speech, Nayla Al Khaja expressed her gratefulness for the unwavering support she received on her journey as a pioneer filmmaker. “It’s the encouragement and belief from those around me that have fueled my passion and determination to break barriers and tell stories that matter. Today’s award is not just a recognition of my work; it is a testament to the strength of our collective vision for more diverse voices to shine in the world of film and television.”
The afternoon saw Charlotte Jones, Senior Principal Analyst: Cinema & Movies at OMDIA do a presentation on MENA Cinema in the global theatrical landscape highlighting key trends and opportunities in 2023 and beyond. Tanya Easterman, Founder, Daiku UK also did a case study presentation on learning from proven pricing and promotional strategies to increase audience.
Over the years, META Cinema Forum has evolved into a pivotal gathering for cinema industry leaders, expanding its reach to encompass more regions, projects, and partnerships. It stands as the premier platform for the exchange of ideas, strategies, and innovations that are shaping the cinema sector in the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and the CIS region.
The Forum’s program was extensive, featuring a tradeshow, conference sessions, product presentations, special screenings, premieres, workshops, masterclasses, a Black-tie awards ceremony, networking reception, meetings areas, and content and cinema construction breakout sessions.
The theme for the 2023 edition “Growing the region’s cinema share,” reflected a commitment to foster growth and innovation in the industry. Topics covered included Regional Content Production and International Collaboration, Cinemas of the Future, and an in-depth look at emerging cinema trends and technologies with key cinema statistics and case studies on Rewarding Patrons and Effective Pricing Strategies.
Organized by GM Events, the META Cinema Forum was a two-day immersion in priceless knowledge, networking prospects, and a sneak peek into the future of cinema.
Versatile singer, Zakeer Hussain, popularly known as Zak Zorro hails from Dubai and is back once again with an amazing and groovy track. Zak Zorro who is always known for songs like Teri Yaad Mey, Rebel, Dhinchak, Mere Siva Kaun Bey, Jeeta Raha, and Ye Faasla from Album Baby Dil Dena is back in the spotlight with the sensational and groovy song that is sure to captivate the hearts of his fans and music enthusiasts worldwide.
“HAANJI,” is a peppy song that embraces the joyous essence of life and cherishes every happy moment. With its unique blend of mesmerizing vocals, melody, hook step for dance, and trendy beats HAANJI is all set to be the biggest anthem song of the year. The beauty of the song is that it will definitely make the listeners groove their head and tap their feet and make them reconnect with the golden moments of life and give it a chance to revive them. The song was officially released on 25th July on the official YouTube handle of Zak Zorro. The teaser of the song is already being appreciated by the audience.
Zak Zorro in his new single HAANJI says, “The song is very close to my heart and I am always fond of creating such music that makes the audience connect to their inner soul and Haanji is one such song that has peppy beats, tune and lyrics and will be on everyone’s mind. I am overwhelmed with the response that is coming my way from my audience.”
He further adds, “The song’s catchy chorus is designed to make you want to sing along and dance to the infectious rhythm, making it a perfect addition to any party playlist or mood-lifting music collection. The song urges listeners to appreciate life’s blessings and share the joy with those around them, fostering a sense of unity and togetherness through music.”
Check out the song now on:
The talented medley of sorts has been pulled off by the one and only, Zak Zorro and Icon Art Production. The entire song is being shot in Dubai. In the musical video, various dancers across the country are seen grooving on Haanji along with Zak, which shows the unity and love he believes in.
From humble beginnings to international fame, Zak has continuously pushed the boundaries of creativity and talent. As the track Haanji continues to garner widespread acclaim, there’s no doubt that Zak Zorro’s music will continue to touch hearts and spread joy wherever it reaches. So, turn up the volume, groove to the beat, and let the magic of “HAANJI” immerse you in the sheer bliss of life’s most joyful moments.
Globalista Extraordinaire 