SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
The highly anticipated Harry Potter: The Exhibition opened in Abu Dhabi on Thursday, right in time for the July 31 birthday of “the boy who lived.”
Potterheads and their friends and families can now troop to Manarat Al Saadiyat to immerse themselves in the Wizarding World of their Hogwarts heroes. The exhibition is open six days a week - closed on Tuesdays - through September 21.
It is presented by Warner Bros. Discovery Global Experiences, Imagine Exhibitions, Eventim Live, as well as Proactiv Entertainment, in partnership with the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi and Miral.
“The Harry Potter: The Exhibition is the only intellectual property in the world that brings together all aspects of the Harry Potter universe and the Wizarding World into one space,” Jose Cuervo, Middle East Regional Director at Proactiv Entertainment, told Aletihad.
“It includes different interactive experiences not only for Harry Potter fans but for everyone in the family. We really believe this exhibition has no age limitations. It is for anyone who appreciates the magic of the brand and the storytelling behind the books and films.”
The arrival of the spellbinding exhibition in Abu Dhabi reinforces the emirate’s position as a leading cultural hub - from showcasing the finest pieces from the art world and captivating literary enthusiasts, to celebrating pop culture.
Cuervo said: “Over the past few years, we have seen Abu Dhabi grow tremendously as a cultural and entertainment capital in the region.”
“Events like this exhibition and upcoming concerts, such as the Harry Potter Film Concert Series in September, are giving both residents and visitors the chance to engage with iconic global brands,” he added.
What Awaits Fans
Harry Potter: The Exhibition is a tribute to the Wizarding World for the generations of fans who have followed the journey of Harry Potter and his friends since the characters first appeared in J.K. Rowling’s eponymous novels and, subsequently, the Warner Bros. blockbuster film series.
It offers a behind-the-scenes experience that allows fans to step into the worlds of original sets, costumes and props as they are transported to the actual production environments - that of the wizarding world.
From choosing a Hogwarts house (Gryffindor, Hufflepuff, Ravenclaw, or Slytherin) to selecting their wand and Patronus, guests are bound to create magical memories, earning points each time they interact with the activations on site.
“We have something in store for every fan here in Abu Dhabi, and the initial reactions have been amazing,” said Tom Zaller, President and CEO of Imagine Exhibitions.
“We have poured our heart and soul into this exhibition, and I am honoured and proud to open in this captivating city to share the magic with Emiratis, residents of the capital, our GCC neighbours and visitors alike.”
Besides Harry Potter, more fantasy worlds will soon take the stage in Abu Dhabi, Cuervo said.
“We will be bringing Beetlejuice: The Musical to Etihad Arena at the end of November,” he said.
“In September, we will be announcing a few major productions that will be especially exciting for musical theatre fans and families.”