MEFCC 2026: Legendary Bleach voice actor Ryōtarō Okiayu announced as first Japanese guest

According to Middle East Film & Comic Con's announcement, legendary Japanese voice actor Ryōtarō Okiayu will join MEFCC 2026 as the event's first seiyū guest. Best known as the voice of Byakuya Kuchiki in Bleach, Okiayu brings decades of iconic anime and gaming roles to Abu Dhabi this April.

Who is Ryōtarō Okiayu and why should anime fans care?

Ryōtarō Okiayu is one of Japan's most celebrated voice actors with a career spanning over three decades. His most famous role as Byakuya Kuchiki in Bleach made him a household name among anime fans, but his range extends far beyond that iconic captain.

In anime, he's voiced Hisashi Mitsui in Slam Dunk, Tezuka Kunimitsu in The Prince of Tennis, Kokushibō in Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba, and Scar in Fullmetal Alchemist. Gaming fans know him as Zero in Mega Man X, Terra in Kingdom Hearts, and Lee Chaolan in Tekken.

This is the kind of guest announcement that makes anime conventions matter — a voice actor whose characters have defined entire franchises and childhood memories.

What will Okiayu do at MEFCC 2026?

Okiayu will participate in on-stage panels, live Q&A sessions, and autograph signings throughout the three-day event. For UAE anime fans, this represents a rare opportunity to meet the voice behind some of the medium's most iconic characters.

The announcement positions him within MEFCC's expanding Otaku District, which transforms part of ADNEC into what organizers call 'an anime paradise.' Given his extensive portfolio, expect panels covering everything from classic 90s anime to modern gaming roles.

He joins Simu Liu's MEFCC 2026 appearance and Christopher Judge, creating what's shaping up to be one of the convention's strongest international lineups.

When and where to attend MEFCC 2026

MEFCC 2026 runs from April 24-26, 2026, at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). This marks the event's 14th edition, and last year it hosted over 46,000 fans across the three days.

Tickets start from Dhs 160, though the announcement doesn't specify what different tiers include or exact scheduling for Okiayu's appearances. Fans can get tickets and updates at www.mefcc.com.

With Abu Dhabi also hosting Animenia Abu Dhabi 2026 earlier in the year, the emirate is positioning itself as the region's anime capital.

Tickets and event details

MEFCC 2026 tickets start from Dhs 160 and are available at www.mefcc.com. The event runs April 24-26, 2026, at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, with Okiayu's specific panel times to be announced.

This year's convention promises the usual mix of celebrity guests, exclusive merchandise, gaming tournaments, cosplay competitions, and film previews that have made it the region's largest pop culture festival.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the first Japanese voice actor announced for MEFCC 2026?

Ryōtarō Okiayu, best known for voicing Byakuya Kuchiki in Bleach, is the first Japanese voice actor (seiyū) guest announced for MEFCC 2026.

When and where is Middle East Film & Comic Con 2026?

MEFCC 2026 takes place from April 24-26, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) in Abu Dhabi, UAE.

How much are tickets for MEFCC 2026?

Tickets for MEFCC 2026 start from Dhs 160. Full ticket tiers and pricing details are available at www.mefcc.com.

What will Ryōtarō Okiayu do at MEFCC 2026?

Okiayu will participate in on-stage panels, live Q&A sessions, and autograph signings throughout the three-day event, giving fans direct access to the legendary voice actor.

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