Split-Venue Stand Strategy for WHX Dubai 2026

As experienced exhibition stand builders Dubai, we’ve mapped the practical steps exhibitors must take to survive WHX 2026’s split-venue format. WHX runs 9–12 February 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) with WHX Labs staged concurrently at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) (10–13 Feb). Managing staff, logistics and approvals across both sites—separated by a 40–50 minute transfer—is the immediate challenge.

Why WHX 2026’s Split-Venue Format Matters (DEC vs DWTC) — exhibition stand builders Dubai

The two-site program expands reach (≈4,300+ exhibitors; 235,000–270,000+ visitors) but complicates operations. Key facts:

• Dates & locations: DEC (9–12 Feb) hosts the main WHX halls; DWTC (10–13 Feb) hosts WHX Labs.
• Travel gap: Expect a 40–50 minute transfer between DEC (Expo City) and DWTC depending on traffic—plan staff rotation and material transfers accordingly.
• Implications: Staff scheduling must allow for travel buffer, duplicate on-site supervision, and contingency for missed meetings. Logistics windows and loading-bay bookings at DWTC are pre-booked and inflexible.

The Top Exhibitor Risks at WHX — exhibition stand builders Dubai

Exhibitors face concentrated risks across both venues. The most frequent causes of cost and time overruns include:

• Missed loading slots: DWTC enforces a pre-booked logistics-slot system. Missing a slot can delay access for hours or days and force last-minute crane/lift hires.
• Tight breakdown windows: DWTC typically enforces 24–48 hour breakdown windows. Failing to clear on time incurs heavy labour and waste fees.
• Build-up timelines: DEC enforces sequenced access and requires earlier submission of structural method statements—late submission risks denied access or rework.
• Height and structure approvals: Standard height caps are ~4 m. Anything above, second decks or rigging is classed as “Complex” and needs a structural engineer sign-off (approval fees around $700) plus separate venue approvals.
• Waste and compliance penalties: Non-compliant materials or late RAMS (Risk Assessment Method Statements) can trigger fines. Expect penalties ranging from several hundred to a few thousand USD depending on the infraction and venue enforcement.

Market feedback from previous Arab Health editions shows repeated pain from missed DWTC slots and rushed breakdowns. International contractors unfamiliar with DEC’s new protocols often cause the extra delay and cost.

Tactical Booth Design to Pass Venue Rules First Time — exhibition stand builders Dubai

Design to the venue rules and secure approvals before you ship. Use this build-to-rule checklist to pass first-time inspections:

• Max height: 4.0 m standard. >4.0 m or second decks require structural engineer sign-off and venue approval.
• Materials & fire ratings: Use venue-compliant, fire-rated materials. Bring certificates for MDF, foam, textiles, and vinyl finishes.
• RAMS & method statements: Prepare detailed RAMS and method statements covering sequence, lifting, and working at height. DEC requires earlier submission than DWTC.
• Structural approvals: Factor in engineer approval fees (~$700) and allow 5–10 working days for documentation/issue resolution.
• Approved contractors list: Confirm if your supplier is on the venue’s approved contractors list—both venues may require separate approvals.
• Sequencing for DEC vs DWTC: DEC needs earlier structural submissions and strict sequencing; DWTC demands pre-booked loading slots and has tighter breakdown windows. Plan modules to be load-ready for DWTC slots and pre-approved for DEC sequencing.

How Burdak Solves the Pain Points — exhibition stand builders Dubai

We design and execute stands with venue compliance and time sensitivity in mind. Our technical approach:

• In-house fabrication: Full CNC and joinery capabilities in our Al Quoz workshop reduce third-party lead times and quality risk.
• 3D and full-scale mock-ups: We run full-scale pre-assembly mock-ups in Al Quoz so the on-site fit only requires module placement—this reduces on-site time by 40–70%.
• RAMS preparation: RAMS and method statements are drafted and issued by our safety team for DEC and DWTC requirements prior to venue submission.
• Own transport fleet: A dedicated fleet enables timed transfers between DEC and DWTC to meet slot windows and avoid costly delays.
• On-site project management: We provide dedicated PMs and supervisors to manage sequencing, contractor interfaces and venue inspections.

Case metrics: we routinely deliver 4–7 day rush turnarounds for urgent modules and manage 10–15 simultaneous projects during peak exhibition seasons without compromise on compliance or QC.

Practical 8‑Week Timeline & On‑Site Checklist for WHX Exhibitors — exhibition stand builders Dubai

Use this week-by-week plan to ensure compliance and avoid last-minute penalties.

• Week 8: Finalise concept and confirm venue-specific constraints (max height, electrical/rigging access). Book logistics slots for DWTC and DEC preliminarily.
• Week 7: Submit structural intent and preliminary RAMS to DEC; commission structural engineer if >4m.
• Week 6: Approve detailed drawings. Begin fabrication and CNC cutting at Al Quoz. Book transport windows and secure on-site labour bookings.
• Week 5: Full-scale mock-up and QA in our workshop. Update RAMS and method statements with any design changes.
• Week 4: Lock final transport slots and confirm DWTC loading-bay bookings. Produce packing lists and sequence plans for module delivery.
• Week 3: Pre-assemble and pack modules for rapid on-site installation. Distribute staff rotas accounting for 40–50 min transfer time between sites.
• Week 2: Deliver to venue marshalling yards per slot times. On-site PM meets venue reps and confirms inspection schedule.
• Show Week: Execute rapid placement and commissioning. Monitor energy, AV and final RAMS checks. Keep breakdown plan active and reconfirm teardown slots.

Final QA steps: confirm venue sign-off, secure waste clearance receipts, and archive all RAMS/approvals. Maintain emergency contact lists for venue operations, our on-site PM and transport supervisor.

FAQ — exhibition stand builders Dubai

Q: What is the maximum stand height at WHX venues?

A: Standard max is 4 m. Over 4 m or second-deck options require a structural engineer sign-off and venue approvals (engineer fees ≈ $700).

Q: How strict are DWTC loading slots?

A: Very strict. DWTC enforces pre-booked logistics slots; missing your booking can cause significant delay and additional costs. Book early and confirm 72 hours before arrival.

Q: What are the breakdown windows?

A: DWTC commonly enforces 24–48 hour breakdown windows. DEC’s sequencing is stricter during build-up. Late clearances carry waste fines and labour surcharges.

Q: How does Burdak reduce venue-time risk?

A: Through in-house CNC fabrication, full-scale Al Quoz mock-ups, RAMS-ready method statements, a dedicated fleet and experienced on-site PMs. We deliver 4–7 day rush turnarounds and manage 10–15 live projects concurrently.

For a production estimate or to schedule a workshop mock-up in Al Quoz, contact our project team. We handle the technical compliance so you control the show-time.