When Epic Games announced that Unreal Fest Chicago 2026 would take place from June 16–18, my heart skipped a beat. The email invitation promised three days of sessions, networking, and the much-anticipated State of Unreal keynote on June 17. For any Unreal developer, this is the kind of event that shapes careers and sparks inspiration.
The registration offer is tempting: super-early bird tickets at $549—a generous $200 discount off the regular $749 price. But for me, attending in person is not just about clicking “Register.” It’s a complex equation of dreams, costs, and responsibilities.
Watching Online vs. Being There
Yes, I could watch the keynote online. Epic always makes sure the community worldwide can tune in. But being there in Chicago—feeling the energy of thousands of developers, asking questions directly to Epic’s team, and sharing ideas face-to-face—is something no livestream can replicate.
The Cost of the Journey
The ticket itself is $549 at the discounted rate. Add to that a round-trip flight from Amman, hotel accommodations, and daily expenses, and the numbers climb quickly. Thankfully, my brother is a pilot with Royal Jordanian, which means I can get 50% off flights to any destination in the world. That makes the dream slightly more affordable.
But there’s another unavoidable expense: the U.S. visa application fee of $185. It’s a small number compared to the full cost of travel, yet it’s a reminder of the bureaucratic barrier standing between me and the event.
Family Considerations
This trip would also mean leaving my wife and daughter behind in Amman. That’s not a small decision. It would be the first time I’ve ever left them alone, and the thought weighs heavily on me. Family is my anchor, and the idea of being away—even for a few days—feels daunting.
A Personal Milestone
In my entire life, I’ve only ever traveled to one country outside Jordan—Lebanon. I’ve been there many times, but it remains the only destination I’ve experienced abroad. For me, Chicago isn’t just another city; it’s a symbol of possibility. Attending Unreal Fest would be like stepping into a dream, a milestone that represents growth both personally and professionally.
The Reality Check
Despite all the excitement, there’s a high chance I won’t manage to attend physically. The U.S. visa process from Jordan is unpredictable, and securing approval in time is far from guaranteed. On top of that, I’d need to take vacation days from my full-time job—a challenge in itself.
Balancing Hope and Practicality
So here I am, caught between ambition and reality. Unreal Fest Chicago 2026 is calling, and I want to answer. But whether I’ll be there in person or watching from home, the journey itself—planning, dreaming, and confronting the obstacles—has already taught me something valuable: sometimes the pursuit of a dream is as meaningful as achieving it.
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