Manga Productions Showcases Saudi Creativity, Anime Innovation at AnimeJapan 2026
Manga Productions, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), made a strong impression at AnimeJapan 2026, held from March 28 to 31 at Tokyo Big Sight in Tokyo, Japan. As one of the world’s leading events for anime and creative entertainment, the exhibition drew over 150,000 visitors from across the globe.
The company’s presence attracted high-profile guests, including Japan’s Minister of State, Onoda Kimi, and Member of Parliament and former Vice Minister of Education, Culture, Sports, Science and Technology, Ken Akamatsu, along with executives from major Japanese companies. Discussions focused on the power of creative content to foster cultural exchange, as well as Manga Productions’ role in nurturing talent and building strategic partnerships between Saudi Arabia and Japan.
Manga Productions
This year marked Manga Productions’ second consecutive participation as an official sponsor, underscoring its commitment to strengthening Saudi Arabia’s footprint in the global anime industry. The company engaged audiences throughout both the Public and Business Days with an interactive booth that combined entertainment with cultural exploration.
Visitors to the booth experienced a variety of activities reflecting Saudi heritage, including a traditional Saudi lounge, opportunities to wear cultural attire and take commemorative photos, Arabic calligraphy name writing, and interactive games. Digital displays also highlighted the company’s latest creative projects. The exhibit generated strong engagement on social media and attracted coverage from leading Japanese media outlets.
As part of the event’s business program, Manga Productions CEO Dr. Essam Bukhary delivered a seminar titled, “From Emerging Market to Strategic Partner: The Middle East Shaping the Future of Anime.” His session explored the region’s growing influence in the anime industry and emphasized opportunities for collaboration between Japanese companies and Middle Eastern partners to develop sustainable co-productions.
AnimeJapan
Abdulaziz Almowani, Director of Marketing and Communications, noted that the company’s participation reflects its ongoing efforts to expand the global reach of Saudi content and build meaningful partnerships with leading industry players, while showcasing Saudi talent on the international stage.
This participation aligns with Manga Productions’ broader strategy to deepen international collaboration with Japanese studios and promote Saudi creative content worldwide. Moreover, through its partnerships and projects, the company continues to bring Saudi stories to global audiences, supporting the growth of a dynamic creative sector in line with Saudi Vision 2030 and reinforcing the Kingdom’s role in the global entertainment landscape.
Related Topics:
Red Sea International Film Festival Unveils Programming Team for 5th Edition
‘New Saudi Cinema’: Red Sea Film Festival Empowers Filmmakers
Dreams of the Era Garners Success at Red Sea Film Festival
Jeddah to host the Red Sea Film Festival for the first time
