• Open to anyone aged 15 years and above.
  
• Solo and duo entries only (duos share one prize if they win).
• Online pre-registration is mandatory. No walk-ins.

• All participants must be 15 years old or above on the day of the competition.
  
  
• Participants who are under the age of 18 are required to upload a signed consent form from a parent or legal guardian as part of their registration.
  
  
• Proof of age (e.g., valid ID) may be requested at event check-in.

Costumes must be decent and PG-13 appropriate at all times. Outfits that are too revealing or offensive are strictly prohibited in Sharjah’s public setting. This includes:

• No nudity or extreme scantiness
  
  
• Costumes must cover from the collarbone to mid-thigh for all genders
  
  
• No sheer or skin-tone illusion materials
  
  
• If a character’s design is revealing, participants must modify it (e.g., bodysuit, leggings, or undershirt) to maintain modesty
  
  

The organizers reserve the right to disqualify or ask a cosplayer to cover up if a costume is deemed inappropriate during the event.

Cosplays must not include any politically, socially, or religiously controversial themes, symbols, or messages. This means:

• No political statements, slogans, or national flags
  
  
• No depictions of religious figures or culturally sensitive attire
  
  
• No gore, vulgar language, or sexual themes in costume or performance
  
  
• Avoid any symbols or colors that may be interpreted as controversial or offensive under local laws
  
  

Keep all costumes and performances family-friendly and culturally respectful.

Cosplayers may portray characters of any gender, but they must not violate UAE decency laws.

• Male participants are not allowed to wear attire associated with female characters that may be interpreted as cross-dressing in public
  
  
• Female participants dressing as male characters is permitted, as long as the costume meets public dress code standards
  
  

When in doubt, participants are encouraged to consult with the organizers during the costume approval process.

To maintain safety for all attendees:

Not Allowed:

• Real or functional weapons (of any type)
  
  
• Metal blades, sharp or blunt objects
  
  
• Working projectiles (e.g., nerf darts, arrows with tips)
  
  
• Fire, smoke effects, lasers, fireworks, or pyrotechnics
  
  

Allowed (with inspection):

• Clearly fake foam, plastic, or cardboard props
  
  
• Replica guns with a bright orange tip
  
  
• Bows without strings, arrows without tips
  
  
• Lightweight, non-hazardous accessories
  
  

All props will be inspected by security staff at check-in. If deemed unsafe:

• Props may be tagged or stored
  
  
• The cosplayer may continue without the item
  
  
• Items that violate rules must be removed from the venue
  
  

Participants are advised to seek approval in advance for any ambiguous props.

• Show respect to staff, judges, other participants, and the audience at all times
  
  
• No harassment, hate speech, or profanity on or off stage
  
  
• Stage performance must avoid obscene gestures, sexual content, or inappropriate dancing
  
  
• Dangerous stunts (e.g., jumping off stage, throwing objects) are strictly prohibited
  
  

This is a public and professional event, and all participants are expected to behave with courtesy and professionalism.

• Follow all Expo Centre Sharjah and Sharjah government regulations, including no smoking and no alcohol on the premises
  
  
• Cosplayers with large or obstructive costumes are advised to bring a handler or assistant
  
  

Costumes with limited visibility (e.g., full masks or mascot heads) should be navigated with caution and help

• The organizers have final authority on all costume and prop approvals
  
  
• Any violation of the rules may result in warnings or disqualification
  
  
• By registering, participants agree to comply fully with all rules and decisions made by the organizing team

• Accepted participants must pay 99 AED as an entrance ticket.
  ‍
• This ticket grants full 4-day access to the Sharjah Animation Conference (May 1–4), courtesy of SAC 2025. It’s a gift, not a fee, offering access to the entire event.
  ‍
• If you already have a valid ticket for the event, you will not be charged again.

• Photos and videos will be captured—by registering, you agree to be featured.
  
  
• Costume and behavior rules will be strictly enforced for safety and cultural respect.
  
  
• The organizers’ decision is final.
  
  

The goal is to ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable experience for everyone while celebrating cosplay in harmony with the values of Sharjah and the UAE.