Groundworks CEO Kamimura Yasuhiro, who attended the expo opening ceremony, told Arab News that the large-scale figure was originally made for an event in Japan, “but because of its large size, we could not install it anywhere. We were able to bring it here and install it, and this is the first time it has been installed outside Japan.”

The character featured in the “Neon Genesis Evangelion” series that appeared in the 1980s and screened on Tokyo TV in October 1995.

Other statues displayed in the venue include Eren Yeager, hero of the “Attack on Titan” series, and Conan, which will bring back childhood memories for many visitors.

The three-day exhibition will allow fans to interact with their favorite characters, attend live performances by celebrities, and have discussions with producers and voice actors. There will also be local and international cosplay competitions, and screenings of the latest anime films.

Shops will sell original products related to anime characters.

The exhibition is open from 3 p.m. until midnight and ends on Saturday.