New retail concept to offer original comics, collectibles, manga, anime and gaming
Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates –October 2026: Sandstorm Comics, Abu Dhabi’s first dedicated comic book studio, has partnered with The Little Things, a pop-culture lifestyle brand, to launch a new shop-in-shop retail experience.
At the dedicated The Little Things retail space within Sandstorm’s Yas Island studio, visitors will be able to explore Sandstorm’s manga, comics and children’s books alongside a premium range of anime figures, video games, trading cards and exclusive merchandise from leading global brands, creating a one-stop destination for fans of comics, manga, anime, gaming and pop culture.
This new destination for creators, collectors and fans combines original comic book content with premium collectibles to encourage discovery, creativity and community, supporting Sandstorm’s wider mission to grow the region’s comic book and creative industries.
Mo Abedin, Editor-in-Chief of Sandstorm Comics, said: “Together with The Little Things, we’re creating a space that celebrates creativity and pop culture while giving audiences the opportunity to connect with characters and stories that resonate with them. This partnership reflects Sandstorm’s commitment to growing the comic book ecosystem in the region, as we continue to cultivate community, empower local creators and nurture emerging talent.”
By combining retail, original content and community, the partnership creates new ways for audiences to discover local creators while experiencing some of the world’s most recognisable pop culture brands. It also reflects Abu Dhabi’s growing role as a hub for creative industries and cultural innovation.
Hassan Tamimi, CEO of The Little Things, added: “We’re excited about this opportunity with Sandstorm Comics because it brings together a community that shares our passion for creativity, storytelling, and imagination. At The Little Things, our mission is to unlock worlds you’ve never seen, and we believe that starts by supporting the artists, creators, and fans who bring those worlds to life. We hope this space inspires creativity, celebrates local talent, and gives our community a place to discover something new.”
The new shop-in-shop experience is now open to visitors [OK1.1]at Sandstorm Comics’ Yas Island studio.
About Sandstorm Comics:
Sandstorm is a dedicated comics studio that focuses on developing local talent, investing in new and unique home-grown IPs, advancing the work of content creators, and using the comic book platform to showcase authentic and unique stories from the region.
Headquartered at Yas Creative Hub in Abu Dhabi, Sandstorm Comics’ studio is a one-of-a-kind destination for comic enthusiasts to connect with a vibrant creative hub where original stories from the region are brought to life.
About the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi
The Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi) drives the sustainable growth of Abu Dhabi’s culture and tourism sectors and its creative industries, fuelling economic progress and helping to achieve Abu Dhabi’s wider global ambitions.
By working in partnership with the organisations that define the emirate’s position as a leading international destination, DCT Abu Dhabi strives to unite the ecosystem around a shared vision of the emirate’s potential, coordinate effort and investment, deliver innovative solutions, and use the best tools, policies and systems to support the culture and tourism industries.
DCT Abu Dhabi’s vision is defined by the emirate’s people, heritage and landscape. We work to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a place of authenticity, innovation, and unparalleled experiences, represented by its living traditions of hospitality, pioneering initiatives and creative thought.
About The Little Things:
The Little Things stands as a vibrant cornerstone of pop-culture retail in the UAE and the Middle East. The store offers a unique selection of pop-culture merchandise that celebrates nostalgia and imagination. Staying true to its mantra, “Unlock Worlds You’ve Never Seen,” The Little Things brings childhood fantasies to life, rekindling cherished memories for fans and collectors alike.
With a reputation for exclusivity and variety, The Little Things ensures every customer finds something special to ignite their passion. Its deep connection with the community extends beyond products, hosting events, fostering creativity, and collaborating with local talents. Whether you’re searching for rare finds or seeking to connect with fellow enthusiasts, The Little Things transforms shopping into an immersive journey of wonder and discovery.
