Harry Potter fans from around the globe converged on London’s Old Billingsgate on Tuesday for the first-ever Back to Hogwarts Day, organized by HBO Max, as excitement mounted for the upcoming television series launching on OSN+ this December and the long-awaited Harry Potter-themed land under development in Abu Dhabi. The event, held at the historic Old Billingsgate market, featured immersive experiences designed to bring the Wizarding World to life. Attendees had the opportunity to interact with iconic elements such as Hagrid’s flying motorcycle, a wizard chess display, and interactive games like Hogwarts Legacy and Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery. Central to the experience was a recreated version of Platform 9¾, the magical gateway to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. The day-long celebration also highlighted HBO’s latest adaptation of Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone, featuring Beirut-born Lebanese-Palestinian actress Sirine Saba, who portrays Professor Pomona Sprout, the Herbology teacher and head of Hufflepuff House. Saba, who trained at RADA, brought her unique cultural background to the role, adding depth to the character’s portrayal. Meanwhile, attention turned to the ambitious Harry Potter-themed land currently being developed at Warner Bros World Yas Island in Abu Dhabi. During a live-streamed showcase, plans for three distinct themed lands within the park were unveiled, with a teaser video showcasing the enchanted Ford Anglia soaring past the park’s signature water tower before revealing the tagline “Three new themed lands” and the release date of September 7. While the names and specific attractions of the three lands remain confidential, the announcement signals a major expansion of the Wizarding World beyond the global reach of Universal Studios. This marks the first Harry Potter-themed attraction in the Middle East and one of the largest in terms of scale, according to statements from Miral and Warner Bros Discovery. Industry insiders and planning documents suggest the land may include key locations from the franchise, such as Hogwarts Castle, Diagon Alley, Hogsmeade, and the Forbidden Forest, along with approximately three original rides. However, the exact layout and attractions have not yet been finalized. Miral, the developer behind Warner Bros World, has not officially confirmed the projected opening date, though an earlier estimate from a consultancy firm suggested 2029. The theme park will be fully indoor and climate-controlled, ensuring a comfortable visit throughout the year. The Back to Hogwarts Day in London also marked a shift in location, moving from King’s Cross Station to Old Billingsgate, where fans enjoyed free timed entry sessions from 11 am to 7 pm. The event included additional offerings such as a Time-Turner photo installation commemorating the 10th anniversary of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, film-inspired robes and scarves, and a display of LEGO’s new Ministry of Magic set. Bloomsbury Books gave away copies of selected titles, while Pottermore Publishing and Audible offered complimentary downloads of the full text of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. As the event drew fans dressed in themed attire, including a notable appearance of a Harry Potter fan wearing themed Crocs, the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm. With both the television series and the Abu Dhabi land nearing their respective launch dates, the Wizarding World continues to expand, drawing new generations of fans into its enchanting narrative.
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