Sandbox Swapmeet 2026 in Dubai - in pictures

  • Sandbox Swapmeet, one of the UAE’s fastest-growing pop culture conventions, has returned. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National
    Sandbox Swapmeet, one of the UAE’s fastest-growing pop culture conventions, has returned. All photos: Antonie Robertson / The National
  • The event attracts families from all over the UAE to celebrate their pop culture passions
    The event attracts families from all over the UAE to celebrate their pop culture passions
  • Fans of big franchises such as Pokemon can find everything from trading cars to plush toys to collect
    Fans of big franchises such as Pokemon can find everything from trading cars to plush toys to collect
  • High-ticket items and rare collectibles can be found at Sandbox Swapmeet
    High-ticket items and rare collectibles can be found at Sandbox Swapmeet
  • Booths also offer games and chances to win prizes
    Booths also offer games and chances to win prizes
  • Organisers are expecting at least 16,000 people to attend this year
    Organisers are expecting at least 16,000 people to attend this year
  • Founded as a community-driven gathering for collectors and enthusiasts, Sandbox Swapmeet has developed into a major regional pop culture event
    Founded as a community-driven gathering for collectors and enthusiasts, Sandbox Swapmeet has developed into a major regional pop culture event
  • Organisers say this year’s event, at Dubai World Trade Centre, has an expanded stage programme and larger community presence
    Organisers say this year’s event, at Dubai World Trade Centre, has an expanded stage programme and larger community presence
  • The event showcases local collectors, independent artists and fan communities
    The event showcases local collectors, independent artists and fan communities
  • A headline attraction is Abu Dhabi-based Sandstorm Comics, which is this year's title sponsor
    A headline attraction is Abu Dhabi-based Sandstorm Comics, which is this year's title sponsor
  • Visitors are encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters for cosplay events
    Visitors are encouraged to dress up as their favourite characters for cosplay events
  • The event caters to the growing demand for community-led pop culture events across the Gulf
    The event caters to the growing demand for community-led pop culture events across the Gulf