Meeting like-minded individuals with a love for pop culture has never been easier for UAE residents. What began as a simple toy-swapping event in a restaurant 10 years ago has evolved into one of the UAE’s most vibrant pop culture communities. Hobby Nation UAE has grown into a network of over 4,000 members, bringing together fans of anime, comics, video games, cosplay, and more. Its journey highlights the power of shared passions in fostering meaningful connections.
Hobby Nation’s story is rooted in friendship and a shared love of pop culture. Faisal Q, the founder of Hobby Nation, recalls: "Hobby Nation began as friends trading toys, hosting their first event in a restaurant, 10 years ago. From humble beginnings, Hobby Nation has grown into a vibrant community celebrating every aspect of geek and pop culture."
From these modest origins, the community expanded through strategic steps such as live-streaming pop culture discussions in 2016 and partnering with brands like Laban UP in 2019 to create engaging experiences like a Marvel-themed meme game. By 2023, Hobby Nation’s collaboration with Rove Hotels resulted in its first one-day open event, which drew over 1,000 visitors.
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