Sandstorm Comics to Unveil Three Original Comic Books at MEFCC 2025

Sandstorm Comics, Abu Dhabi’s dedicated comic book studio, will unveil three original comic book titles at this year’s Middle East Film & Comic Con (MEFCC), taking place from 18 to 20 April at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The titles — ‘Solarblader’, ‘Acro and the Cat’, and ‘All Upon a Time’ — showcase the region’s rising talent and storytelling potential, all developed and produced in the UAE.

‘Solarblader’ is a futuristic, Solarpunk-inspired tale written by Emirati creator and Editor-in-Chief of Sandstorm Comics, Mo Abedin. Set in Abu Dhabi in the year 2587, the story follows a teenage solarblading prodigy and his friends as they uncover a galactic mystery that could change their world forever. ‘Solarblader’ combines high-speed energy, social commentary, and local cultural influences to build a bold new universe from the ground up.

The third title, ‘All Upon a Time’, was written by Sara Al-Mutawa and illustrated by Lucjan Pakulski, and offers a comedic twist on fairy tale tropes. The story flips the classic ‘princess rescue’ on its head, following a villain who kidnaps the wrong royal and quickly finds himself outmatched by his so-called prisoner. Packed with heart and humour, the comic cleverly dissects traditional roles in storytelling.

These releases will be available at the Sandstorm Comics stand (T11 in Hall 9), where fans can attend signing sessions, meet the artists, and take part in immersive experiences tied to each story’s universe.

The MEFCC showcase is just one part of Sandstorm’s 2025 roadmap. The studio is also set to unveil a brand-new creative space later this year at Yas Creative Hub, further cementing its role in growing the UAE’s comic book ecosystem. Backed by the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, Sandstorm Comics plays a central role in nurturing regional talent, developing original IP, and shaping the future of comic book storytelling in the Middle East.