Build-up and breakdown are where exhibitions go wrong. This is how the process runs at Dubai venues and what you can do to keep it smooth.
Build-up periods
Organisers allocate a fixed number of build-up days, often fewer for shell-scheme than for space-only stands. The schedule is in the exhibitor manual; everything is planned backwards from it.
Passes, vehicles and deliveries
Contractor badges, vehicle passes and delivery slots are booked in advance. At Dubai World Trade Centre access is tight and slots matter; at Dubai Exhibition Centre, Expo City Dubai, routes and marshalling areas differ, so confirm them for your edition.
Approvals on site
Tall structures, rigging and electrical installations may be inspected before the hall opens. Approved drawings and certificates should be on hand.
Handover
A walk-through with your team before opening, with any snags fixed the same day.
Dismantling
Breakdown starts only when the organiser releases the hall. Stands are dismantled, packed and removed within the breakdown period; reusable elements go to storage.
What you can do
Brief early, confirm who on your team can sign off on site, ship product and literature to arrive during build-up, and avoid last-minute graphic changes.
