Exhibition Stand
Checklist (UAE)
Checklist (UAE)
The short answer
Your show manual sets the rules
Every exhibition in the UAE publishes an exhibitor manual with its own deadlines and rules. Read it first. The typical pattern: send your stand design for approval about 8 weeks before build-up, order power and water separately, and make sure your stand builder has the right licence and insurance.
Timeline
When to do what
| When | Task |
|---|---|
| 12 weeks before | Book space, get the exhibitor manual, brief your stand designer |
| 10 weeks before | Approve the concept: layout, height, graphics, storage, AV |
| 8 weeks before | Submit drawings, renders and documents to the organiser for approval |
| 6 weeks before | Order power, water, internet, furniture and badges by the manual's deadlines |
| 3–4 weeks before | Final artwork to print; production starts |
| Build-up days | Build, install graphics, test lighting and screens |
| After the show | Breakdown within the set hours; collect stored items |
Exact dates come from your show's manual; the weeks above are a safe planning rule.
Real example
What ADNEC asked for (IDRA 2024)
The IDRA 2024 World Congress at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi is a good example of what organisers require:
- Space-only designs due 8 weeks before build-up: 3D renders and technical drawings with all measurements.
- Maximum height 4 m for single-storey stands; double-deckers up to 6 m on island sites only.
- Structural calculations for stands above 4 m.
- Method statement and risk assessment on company letterhead.
- Stand builder's trade licence and contractor's all-risk insurance, minimum AED 14 million.
- Power ordered separately; only the venue's official contractor could do electrical work.
- Build-up over three days, 08:00–20:00, with Emirates ID required for workers and safety shoes mandatory.
Design
Make the stand work for leads
- One clear message readable from the aisle: who you are and what you sell.
- Logo high up, so it is visible over crowds.
- An open front; avoid tables blocking the entrance.
- Storage space for brochures, bags and giveaways.
- Roll-ups and pop-ups for smaller spaces (see roll-up sizes).
- A QR code or WhatsApp number on the back wall for quick follow-up.
With JR Group
Design, build and install
We design and build exhibition stands, graphics and roll-ups from our workshop in Musaffah, Abu Dhabi, and install in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. See our signage and exhibition work.
FAQ
Questions
How early should I start designing an exhibition stand?
Start 10 to 12 weeks before the show. Many organisers want space-only stand designs about 8 weeks before build-up; for example, the IDRA 2024 congress at ADNEC set its deadline 8 weeks before build-up.
What is the height limit for a stand at ADNEC?
It depends on the show. In the IDRA 2024 manual at ADNEC, single-storey space-only stands could be up to 4 m high, and double-decker stands up to 6 m on island sites only. Always check your own show's manual.
Can my stand builder do the electrics?
Usually not. Venues often require their official contractor for power; at ADNEC in the IDRA 2024 manual, only the official contractor could carry out electrical installations, and power had to be ordered by a deadline.
Do you build stands at ADNEC and Dubai World Trade Centre?
Yes. We design, build and install exhibition stands in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Send us the show name, stand size and your deadline.
Sources
Where this comes from
Checked on 8 October 2026. Rules change; confirm with the authority before you order a sign.
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