How to determine Exhibition stand design charges in Dubai?

Dubai hosts over 30 major trade shows and exhibitions every year that attract visitors and companies from around the globe. With such a vibrant events industry, many exhibition stand builders in Dubai provide design, fabrication, and installation services. Completely bespoke, one-of-a-kind exhibition stand designs in Dubai command the highest premium.

However, not all exhibition stand builders in Dubai are equal and their pricing structures can vary significantly depending on factors like size, design complexity, materials used, and on-site services provided. As an exhibitor, it's important to understand how charges are typically calculated so you can compare quotes accurately.

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Here are the key factors that determine a stand builder's costs in Dubai:

Stand Space:

The primary consideration is the overall square meterage of your stand space. Rates are usually quoted per square meter, so larger stands will cost more. Most builders have minimum space requirements, often starting from 9 square meters.

Design Complexity:

A simple pop-up display using basic construction elements like panels and trussing will be more affordable. But if it is an elaborate multi-level structure with architectural features, furniture, and audio-visual aspects the price may go up. More complex designs require additional engineering, materials, and labor hours to build.

Custom Design vs Template:

Building from standard pre-designed booth packages and modular systems is cheaper than fully custom solutions. But modular options still allow personalization within set parameters.

Materials and Finishes:

Materials like wood, aluminum, and rigid laminates are mid-range. On the other hand, high-end options like marble, stone, glass, and custom metalwork drive up costs. The use of eco-friendly, reusable materials may result in small discounts. Wood or laminate finishes are more affordable than printed materials.

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Electrical and Lighting:

Including WiFi, displays, plasma screens or motion graphics increases electrical requirements and rates. LED or track lighting systems cost less to install than bespoke feature lighting and designs.

Furnishings:

Standard furnishings like tables, chairs, shelves, and counters add to the budget. Custom-made display counters, meeting pods, or reception desks further drive up costs. For rental furniture opt for basic functional styles rather than luxury options.

Installation and Logistics:

On-site installation and dismantling charges are a significant component, accounting for 15-30% of total costs. Complex rigging, multi-level assembly, or tight installation windows attract premium rates. International shipping and customs clearance also impact budgets.

Additional Services:

There are many value-added services like graphic design, branding, lead retrieval systems, and cleaning. They can increase the bill significantly if provided by your exhibition stand contractor. It may be cheaper to outsource some non-core services separately.

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Timing:

Rush orders within 4-6 weeks attract 20-30% surcharges compared to standard 8-12 weeks builds. Last-minute bookings are even costlier so plan well in advance for competitive rates. Discounts may apply for repeat clients or multi-show contracts signed annually.

Negotiating Rates:

Once you understand these rate determinants, request competitive quotes from 3-5 trusted builders. Compare line items to identify variances and scope for negotiation.

Consider reducing design complexity or non-critical features to trim budgets if needed. Seasoned builders often offer package discounts for bundled services.

Some key aspects to negotiate include:

• Material and finishes.

• Labor hours.

• Logistics - shipping, storage, and transport.

• Payment terms and schedules.

• Value-adds like branding, WiFi, etc.

• Scopes of work for each charged line item.

• Early-bird or volume discounts.

VAT and Additional Charges:

Most Dubai builders add a 5% Value Added Tax to their standard rates. Additionally, there may be show organizer fees, rental security deposits, and cleaning expenses. They can be charged as a percentage of build cost depending on the event venue rules.

Factor these additional costs into your planning and quote evaluation.

Key Points to Remember:

• Get 3 quotes minimum for an apples-to-apples cost comparison.

• Review line item details rather than overall totals.

• Negotiate scope reductions or bundled service packages.

• Ask for a post-production settlement discount if within budget.

• Define payment schedules and material ordering lead times.

• Consider value-engineering some design aspects without compromising quality.

CONCLUSION –

While high-end, bespoke stand designs run into hundreds of thousands. Many professional builders can deliver functional, branded stands within AED 50,000-150,000 for an average of 9-27 sqm spaces.

With diligent planning and negotiation, you can find the best value exhibition design company in Dubai. They could maximize your exhibition branding and outcomes within budget.

You can Read Also:

15 Brilliant Exhibition Stand Design Tips and Trends in Dubai

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