For fans of hand-drawn magic, gentle fantasy, and emotionally rich storytelling, few names resonate like Studio Ghibli. The legendary animation house behind some of the most beloved films in cinematic history is bringing its enchanting universe to the UAE with a large-scale immersive exhibition set to captivate visitors of all ages. This is not a standard museum display—it is a carefully crafted journey into the heart of Ghibli’s worlds, designed to make you feel as though you have stepped directly into the films themselves.
When and Where the Magic Begins
The World of Studio Ghibli exhibition will open its doors at Manarat Al Saadiyat in Abu Dhabi, running from May 30 to August 20, 2026. This marks the first time the exhibition has arrived in the capital, making it a landmark cultural moment for anime fans and art lovers across the region. The venue will be closed on Mondays, giving visitors six days each week to explore the experience at a relaxed pace.
Opening hours vary across the week. From Tuesday to Wednesday, the exhibition will be open from 1pm to 7pm, while Thursday to Sunday hours extend from 10am to 8pm. Each visit is designed to last between 60 and 90 minutes, though fans may find themselves lingering longer inside their favourite scenes.
Sixteen Galleries of Pure Imagination
Spread across 16 immersive galleries, the exhibition recreates some of the most iconic settings ever animated. These spaces are not just inspired by the films—they are theatrical, life-sized environments that invite you to wander, pause, and absorb the intricate craftsmanship that defines Studio Ghibli.
Visitors will encounter lovingly recreated sets from classics such as My Neighbor Totoro, Kiki’s Delivery Service, and Princess Mononoke. Every texture, colour, and object has been designed to reflect the hand-drawn warmth that made these films timeless.
Iconic Scenes You Can Step Into
One of the exhibition’s biggest draws is the opportunity to physically enter moments that have lived in viewers’ imaginations for decades. You can wait beneath the rain beside Totoro, just as in the unforgettable bus-stop scene. You can wander through the moving, mechanical wonder of Howl’s Moving Castle, surrounded by the castle’s eccentric charm and layered details.
Another highlight invites visitors to board a train alongside No-Face from Spirited Away, recreating one of the most visually poetic sequences in modern animation. These installations are designed for exploration and photography, but more importantly, they evoke the emotional tone that made each scene resonate so deeply.
Interactive Installations and Hidden Details
Beyond the headline scenes, the exhibition shines in its quieter, more intimate moments. Interactive box-art displays allow visitors to examine how Ghibli’s frames are built layer by layer, revealing the studio’s extraordinary attention to detail. From the cluttered laboratory of Kokiri the witch in Kiki’s Delivery Service to a close-up recreation of Satsuki’s heartfelt letter to her mother in My Neighbor Totoro, these spaces celebrate the storytelling that happens between the action.
Many installations encourage visitors to slow down and observe—mirroring the way Studio Ghibli films often linger on stillness, nature, and everyday life. It is a reminder that the studio’s magic lies not only in fantasy, but in its deeply human moments.
An Exclusive Audio Journey
Adding another layer to the experience is an exhibition-exclusive audio trail. Accessible throughout the galleries, it offers behind-the-scenes insights, production anecdotes, and creative commentary that deepen appreciation for the films. Rather than overwhelming visitors with information, the audio trail is carefully curated to enhance what you see, guiding you through the creative philosophies that shaped each world.
For longtime fans, this means discovering new stories about familiar scenes. For newcomers, it provides a gentle introduction to what makes Studio Ghibli’s work so emotionally powerful and universally loved.
Designed for All Ages
The World of Studio Ghibli is designed as a family-friendly experience, welcoming visitors of all generations. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult, while entry is free for children under three years old. The exhibition’s layout is accessible and intuitive, making it suitable for young children, teens, and adults alike.
Ticket pricing is set at Dhs75 for children aged three and above, and Dhs125 for adults. With its combination of scale, interactivity, and storytelling depth, the exhibition offers strong value for both casual viewers and devoted fans.
Why Abu Dhabi Is the Perfect Setting
Hosting this exhibition at Manarat Al Saadiyat reinforces Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a cultural destination that bridges global creativity and local audiences. The calm, open architecture of the venue complements the exhibition’s tone, allowing the immersive environments to breathe without feeling crowded or rushed.
For residents and visitors alike, the exhibition offers a rare opportunity to experience one of Japan’s most influential creative exports without leaving the region. It also aligns seamlessly with Abu Dhabi’s broader commitment to arts, film, and international cultural exchange.
A Once-in-a-Season Experience
With a limited run from May 30 to August 20, the World of Studio Ghibli is a time-bound experience that rewards planning ahead. Whether you grew up watching these films or are discovering them for the first time, the exhibition promises a sense of wonder that is increasingly rare in today’s fast-paced entertainment landscape.
This is not simply an exhibition you walk through—it is one you feel, remember, and carry with you long after you leave. For anyone who has ever dreamed of stepping into a Ghibli film, Abu Dhabi is about to make that dream wonderfully real.
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