GameExpo and PopConME, two of the key attractions at the ongoing Dubai Esports Festival (DEF 2022), kicked off on the second day of the festival taking place at Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in Expo City Dubai.

The inaugural DEF 2022, the only festival of its kind in the region, is hosted by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), in partnership with VSPN – a global leader in esports activities and solutions – as well as presenting partner, du,and organised in collaboration with Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and Alanza Trading.

GameExpo and PopConME feature some of the biggest Hollywood celebrities, special Meet-and-Greet sessions, international artists and creators, exclusive workshops, movie screenings, artist alley, cosplay, gaming competitions &esports tournaments among other attractions, and will continue to take place until 13 November at the South Hall of DEC.

With several immersive zones hosting brands, publishers and gaming experts, GameExpo is a platform for fans to interact with all things gaming and esports. Fans can watch exciting live esports tournaments as well as meet and compete against their gaming idols at free-to-play gaming zones.  A Retro Games zone offers fans a nostalgic blast from the past with unique and rare vintage gaming entertainment in addition to casual competitions and tournaments open to all.

Visitors to GameExpocan also enjoy the latest quirky indie games – such as Ram Setu, Apna Games, ICC Cricket Mobile, FAU-G and Protect Mother Nature – as well as get a first look at the latest BETA games from independent gaming developers at The Discovery Zone. Content House by Galaxy Racer is a beehive of gaming and esports programs packed with interactive and exciting activities including a gaming zone, podcast area, controller lounge, racing simulators and a chill zone wherefans can hangout, play, learn, and engage with pro gamers, streamers, Youtubers and industry leaders. Throughout GameExpo, gaming aficionados can play a host of popular video game titles including Mario Kart, FIFA 23, Fall Guys, F1 Simulator, Tekken, Fortnite, Rocket League, CS:GO, Street Fighter 6, Forza Horizon 5, Brawl Stars, Valorant and many more.

A celebration of all elements of world-class pop culture, superheroes, comics, gaming, art, movies, TV, anime and more, PopConMEsupported by Dubai Studio City, a member of TECOM Group PJSC, features a variety of immersive and entertaining experiences. Fans can dress up in their favourite cosplay outfits, meet with their favourite cosplay celebrities, as well as take a deep dive into Japanese anime culture through live performances, movie screenings, workshops and art.

The Meet the Heroes zone is the main attraction of the convention for fans to meet their favourite celebrities. The Mainstage features panels with celebrities as well as live musical performances and cosplay competitions among others. The Theatre showcases exclusive movie screenings, independent films and previews and awarding ceremonies are held in this zone. The Dojo offers special workshops from the best in the industry of filming, gaming, art, music, comedy and screenplay among others. Japanese Village offers an engaging avenue into Japanese anime with kawaii memorabilia available to purchase.

DEF 2022 runs until 20 November, bringing together global gaming celebrities, industry leaders, developers, creatives and artists with an exciting line-up of live events and activations, concerts and competitions –including the highly anticipated PUBG Global Championship 2022, GameExpo, PopConME, Initiate Summit, Wegz live in concert, regional tournaments and Minecraft Esports Schools Clash, as well as retail promotions showcasing the latest games and merchandise.

For more information about DEF 2022 please visit www.dubaiesportsfestival.com.