Quick Planning Tools: • Show Finder: 2026 Dubai Exhibition Calendar • Instant Budgeter: Exhibition Stand Cost Calculator
Exhibiting at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) or the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in 2026 is a cornerstone of global market growth. However, the “Dubai Standard” for presentation requires a specific financial architecture. Unlike other hubs that rely on modular systems, the UAE market is built on high-end, custom-built timber structures.
To help you build an ROI-driven 2026 roadmap, here is a transparent look at where costs begin for a professional presence in the UAE.
1. The Foundation: Space Rental Rates Your first expense is the “raw space” plot, rented directly from the event organizer. For the 2026 season, rates fluctuate based on show prestige and plot orientation.
• Raw Space (Space Only): Rates generally start from AED 1,600 per sqm. • Location Surcharges: For corner or island plots (open on 3 or 4 sides), organizers typically apply a premium that starts from 10% of the base space cost.
• Mandatory Admin Fees: Registration, insurance, and marketing packages usually start from AED 1,200 per exhibiting company.
2. Custom Fabrication: The Move to Timber
Dubai is a timber-first market. To achieve the seamless, architectural finish expected at shows like GITEX Global or Gulfood, bespoke wood and MDF joinery are the industry standard.
| Build Tier | Price Starts From (per sqm) | Typical Specification |
| Essential Custom | AED 950 | Painted MDF, vinyl branding, standard lighting. |
| Premium Joinery | AED 1,400 | Duco-paint finish, 3D backlit logos, raised platforms. |
| Elite Bespoke | AED 2,500 | Multi-level (Double Decker), integrated LEDs, VIP lounges. |
3. Mandatory Venue Utilities (The DWTC Checklist)
A frequent budgeting error is ignoring the technical fees billed by the venue (DWTC). These are independent of your build cost and are non-negotiable.
• Performance Bond (Refundable): Usually starts from AED 2,500 for custom builds.
• Electrical Mains: Power connections for a standard 36sqm stand typically start from AED 1,800.
• Rigging (Hanging Points): If you require a hanging banner, point rental fees start from AED 2,200 per point, excluding labor and hardware.
4. Taxes, Logistics, and Engagement
• VAT (5%): All exhibition services in the UAE are subject to the Federal Tax Authority’s 5% VAT.
• Hospitality: Professional on-stand catering and coffee services generally start from AED 90 per head.
• Daily Maintenance: Professional stand cleaning services typically start from AED 300 per day.
5. Strategic 2026 Planning
To ensure your 2026 presence is both impactful and financially sound, use these steps to finalize your numbers:
Beyond the Booth: Estimating Your Total Marketing Investment Quick Planning Tools: • Show Finder: 2026 Dubai Exhibition Calendar • Instant Budgeter: Exhibition Stand Cost Calculator Exhibiting at the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) or the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in 2026 is a cornerstone of global market growth. However, the “Dubai Standard” for presentation requires […]
