Tokyo Game Show (TGS) is the largest gaming expo in Asia and one of the most anticipated events in the gaming world. In 2025, it will take place from September 25 to 28 at Makuhari Messe near Tokyo. If you’re based in Dubai or Abu Dhabi and want to combine a trip to Japan with this major event – this guide is for you. What is Tokyo Game Show? Tokyo Game Show has been held annually since 1996 and brings together top global game developers, publishers, and fans. Visitors can experience live game demos, VR/AR innovations, upcoming blockbusters, and the essence of Japan’s gaming industry.
What happened in 2024
TGS 2024 hosted over 270,000 visitors and showcased more than 2,000 games. Highlights included Death Stranding 2, Monster Hunter Wilds, Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake, and Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth. For the first time, studios from the UAE: Hypemasters, Khosouf, Afterwork Games, and Kashkool – took part in the event.
What to expect in 2025
TGS 2025 is set to become the largest edition ever, with 772 companies and over 4,000 booths. Confirmed participants include Sony, Capcom, Sega, Square Enix, Xbox, and many others. The official theme is “Unlimited, Neverending Playground” – a celebration of endless creativity and gaming.
Direct Flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Tokyo, Japan: How to Travel from the UAE
From Dubai
- Departure airport: Dubai International (DXB)
- Arrival airports: Narita (NRT) or Haneda (HND)
- Airline: Emirates
- Flight duration: approx. 9h 45m
- Frequency: daily flights
From Abu Dhabi
- Departure airport: Abu Dhabi International (AUH)
- Arrival airport: Narita (NRT)
- Airline: Etihad Airways
- Flight duration: approx. 10h 05m
- Frequency: daily flights
Haneda is closer to central Tokyo (about 20 minutes by train), while Narita takes about 60-90 minutes to reach the city center.
What to see in Tokyo for gamers
Besides attending TGS, you’ll find plenty of places that gaming fans will love:
- Akihabara – the heart of Japanese gaming and otaku culture. Explore Super Potato (retro games), Mandarake, arcades, and maid cafés.
- Odaiba – a futuristic entertainment island with the life-size Gundam statue, Joypolis VR amusement park, and teamLab Planets digital museum.
- Shibuya & Shinjuku – visit Nintendo Tokyo, Capcom Store, and Square Enix Café.
- Ikebukuro – home to Pokémon Center Mega Tokyo, One Piece Store, and other anime/game-themed shops.
- Yokohama – features Gundam Factory, Pokémon Center, and the Cup Noodles Museum.
- Kyoto – a 2.5–3-hour train ride to see the newly opened Nintendo Museum.
Visa to Japan: Who needs one and how to get it
Who doesn’t need a visa? Citizens of the following countries do not require a visa for short stays (up to 90 days):
- UAE (biometric passport holders, up to 30 days)
- USA
- UK
- EU countries
- Canada
- Australia
- South Korea, and others
- UAE passport holders must register online in advance.
Who needs Japan visa? Citizens of Russia, India, Pakistan, Iran, Bangladesh, Egypt, Nepal, and other countries still need a visa.
Required documents
- Valid passport
- Photo (45×45 mm)
- Completed visa form
- Flight and hotel reservations
- Bank statement
- Employment letter or trade license
Why choose our agency
- Super express processing – visa in just 4 business days
- All documents are reviewed by a visa expert
- Final check done by our AI system trained to detect risks and increase approval chances
- We specialize in complex cases, including previous refusals
Contact us today and make your trip to Japan a reality!
Japan Visa FAQ for Residents of the UAE: Common Questions Answered
Akihabara, Odaiba, Nintendo Store, Pokémon Center, Square Enix Café, and more.
Yes. We provide full visa support in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including fast-track options and expert document review.
Passport, photo, visa form, bank statement, flight and hotel bookings, and employment letter.
Public tickets (for September 27–28) will be available starting July 2025.
About 9–10 hours nonstop. Emirates and Etihad operate daily flights.
Makuhari Messe in Chiba, near Tokyo. Dates: September 25–28, 2025.
