When and where is CABSAT 2026 taking place?

CABSAT 2026 takes place from 5–7 October 2026 at the Dubai Exhibition Centre, South Halls, Expo City, Dubai. Opening hours: Monday 5 October 10:00–17:00, Tuesday 6 October 10:00–17:00, Wednesday 7 October 10:00–16:00

Is there Wi-Fi available at the venue?

Yes, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the venue, although connection speeds may vary

What is the recommended dress code for CABSAT?

Business formal or smart casual is encouraged

How can I contact the CABSAT team for general enquiries?

For general enquiries, email cabsat@dwtc.com. For technical support, email support@cabsat.com

Who organises CABSAT?

CABSAT is organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) in partnership with key stakeholders from the MEASA media industry

CABSAT Middle East | TradeShowIntel

Notable exhibitors

Companies exhibiting at CABSAT Middle East include Accsoon, Advanced, AEQ (Aplicaciones Electronicas Quasar) S.A, Aina Tech and AKRATEK ELEKTRONIK SAN. IC ve DIS TIC. LTD. STI.

Accsoon
Advanced
AEQ (Aplicaciones Electronicas Quasar) S.A
Aina Tech
AKRATEK ELEKTRONIK SAN. IC ve DIS TIC. LTD. STI.

Event overview

Overview

CABSAT has been the premier annual event for professionals involved in content creation & management, and delivery of entertainment and news content. For over 32 years, CABSAT has been the most influential platform connecting the global media, broadcast, satellite, content creation, and professional AV communities with thriving markets across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia.

This annual event is held concurrently with SATEXPO and serves as a platform for the global media, entertainment, and technology industry. CABSAT 2026 returns as the leading platform for the broadcast, media, and satellite industries in the Middle East, Africa and South Asia

TL;DR

1CABSAT 2026 is the MEASA region's #1 event for AI-driven media, broadcast, and Pro
2Over 18,000 professional attendees, 450+ exhibiting companies, and 700+ brands from 120+ countries
3Features 50+ hours of premium content including the Content Congress, Co-Production Salon, Virtual Production
4New location at the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) in Expo City, the region's most
5Co-located with SATEXPO and Integrate Middle East, creating a comprehensive platform for content creators

Attendees, exhibitors & solutions

Who this event is for

Visitor profile

Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.

C-suite executives and senior-level professionals from broadcasters, media companies, and satellite operators

Content creators, producers, and distributors

Broadcast engineers and system integrators

Technology innovators and AV professionals

Government delegations and communications agencies

Network operators and telecom carriers

Exhibitor profile

Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.

Broadcast technology providers offering AI-powered solutions, 4K/8K production tech, and streaming innovations

Satellite operators and service providers

Media and entertainment technology companies

Professional AV and enterprise AV integration firms

Content creation and management solution providers

System integrators and technology distributors

Product categories

Key solution areas showcased across the event.

Content Creation, Storytelling & Virtual Production (cameras, lighting, audio, real-time engines, LED volumes, virtual production stages)

Media Technology Trends, Cloud & IP Workflows (MAM, NRCS, workflow orchestration, IP-native, cloud-first operations, software-defined and remote production)

Pro AV, Immersive Environments & Integrated Systems (immersive environments, LED volumes, integrated systems, displays, audio, control, spatial design)

Ethics, Sustainability & Diversity in Media (responsible storytelling, sustainable practice, diverse voices, greener production, ethical frameworks)

AI-powered broadcast solutions

4K/8K production technologies

Streaming innovations and OTT platforms

Automated production and IP workflows

Immersive media and virtual production

Satellite and connectivity solutions

Location & Facilities

Venue

Open in Google Maps

Halls & areas

123

Dubai Exhibition Centre

Expo City, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Entrances & gates

Arrivals Plaza

North HallsSouth Halls

The expansive main plaza and entrance to the North and South Halls feature an interactive LED canopy

Facilities

Parking

Free visitor parking available 24/7 with over 4,500 spaces. Scheduled shuttle bus services operate between parking zones and the Arrivals Plaza. Accessible parking for People of Determination is available near entrances

4,500 spaces ·

Accessibility

Dubai Exhibition Centre is fully accessible for People of Determination. Features include wheelchair-accessible washrooms, wide doorways, lifts with low-level buttons, Braille signage, and hearing loops at information desks. Complimentary wheelchairs are available with valid ID at North and South Concourses and Emergency Medical Service stations. Dedicated registration desks for People of Determination are available

Prayer rooms

Prayer facilities are available within Expo City. The Expo City Mosque, located between Sidr Venue and Al Forsan Crescent, is a peaceful and welcoming space for worshippers. Additional prayer rooms are available within the wider Expo City development

Charging points

The venue is 5G-enabled with modern infrastructure. Charging points for mobile devices are typically available throughout the venue and Expo City. The facility features EV charging stations

On-site shuttle

Scheduled shuttle bus services operate within Expo City, transporting visitors to and from designated parking zones and the venue. 80 continuous shuttle services operate within Expo City during major events

Food options

Al Wasl Plaza Café, Alkebulan Food Hall, Rove Café Grab-and-Go, Burger Fuel, Grand Beirut

On-site dining

Parking: Free visitor parking available 24/7, supported by scheduled shuttle bus services to and from the Arrivals Plaza. The venue offers large-scale on-site parking with a multi-storey car park. Expo City has approximately 9,500 parking bays across four designated zones. Designated parking spaces are available for People of Determination near venue entrances

Attend

Entry & tickets

Free registration

Event days & opening times

DayOpening hours

5 Oct 202610:00 AM – 5:00 PM

6 Oct 202610:00 AM – 5:00 PM

7 Oct 202610:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Ticket info

Ticket notes

Free visitor pass available via online registration

Who runs the show

Organisers

Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC)

Organiser

Website

Informa Markets

Organiser (inD · A DWTC Informa Company)

Website

CABSAT Team

General Enquiries

Email Website

CABSAT Support

Technical Support

Email Website

Rajendra Salgaonkar

Conference Programme & Speaker Opportunities

Email Website

What's on

Programme

Conference

Demonstration

Event days

10:00–17:00

Typical time

Official agenda

This agenda is still being finalised. Check the official agenda for the latest sessions.

Speakers

Sasha El-Jurdi

Head of Content Programming @ TikTok MENA

Catherine Mwangi

Head of TV @ Kenya

Yuliana Slashcheva

Chairman @ SMF Studio, Russian Federation

Vijaya Cherian

Editorial Director @ Broadcast Pro ME & Satellite Pro ME

Manoj Abraham Mathew

Director Studios & Events @ Dubai Studios, Dubai Media

Sanjay Raina

General Manager @ Erbil Media City, Iraq

Heba Korayem

Content Market & Distribution Specialist @ H Consult

Kabir Khan

Film Maker @ Kabir Khan Films Pvt Ltd

Crispin Dominic

CEO & Founder @ Action Filmz Production

Randall Barney

Director of Certification and Membership @ World Teleport Association

Virgil Labrador

Editor-in-Chief @ Satellite Markets and Research

Monday, Oct 5, 2026

10:00 – 17:00

Content Congress

Conference

Content Congress Stage1

10:00 – 17:00

Co-Production Salon

Networking

Co-Production Salon2

10:00 – 17:00

Virtual Production Studio

Demonstration

Virtual Production Studio3

10:00 – 17:00

Micro-Drama Lab

Workshop

Micro-Drama Lab3

Tuesday, Oct 6, 2026

10:00 – 17:00

Content Congress

Conference

Content Congress Stage1

10:00 – 17:00

Co-Production Salon

Networking

Co-Production Salon2

10:00 – 17:00

Virtual Production Studio

Demonstration

Virtual Production Studio3

10:00 – 17:00

Micro-Drama Lab

Workshop

Micro-Drama Lab3

Topic tracks

Creative: Content Creation, Storytelling & Virtual ProductionConnected: Media Technology Trends, Cloud & IP WorkflowsPro AV, Immersive Environments & Integrated SystemsEthics, Sustainability & Diversity in Media

Co-located events

SATEXPO

Separate ticket

Integrate Middle East

Separate ticket

Co-located seminars

GVF Satellite Summit

Paid

Awards

BroadcastPro ME Manufacturer Awards 2026

Annual

The BroadcastPro Manufacturer Awards celebrate innovation, leadership and excellence across the broadcast and satellite technology ecosystem in the MENA region. The awards are hosted in association with CABSAT 2026 and will take place on October 6, 2026, during the event

Best in Facility InfrastructureInnovationExcellence

source

Government supporters

Arab States Broadcasting Union (ASBU)

Association Partner

Asia-Pacific Broadcasting Union (ABU)

Association Partner

Global VSAT Forum (GVF)

Supporting Organisation

How the last edition performed

Previous edition

Current edition

2026 · 18,800 visitors · 450 exhibitors

Organiser forecasts as published on the official CABSAT website and trade press

Forecast — not final

Visitors

18,000

Exhibitors

450

Exhibitor countries

120

Growth over time

New this edition

1
Micro Short Drama Clinic
A dedicated two-day programme created in collaboration with Whitebee Media, exploring vertical, bite-sized storytelling for Arabic audiences
Source
2
Virtual Production Studio
A fully operational virtual production zone showcasing real-time 3D environments, LED volumes, and XR workflows
Source
3
New Venue: Dubai Exhibition Centre
CABSAT 2026 moves to the Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) at Expo City Dubai, offering modern infrastructure and improved visitor flow
Source
4
Content Souk
A vibrant marketplace where creators, studios, and buyers connect to exchange ideas, content, and opportunities
Source
5
Dubai Studio City Tours
Exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Dubai's film and TV production facilities
Source

Next edition outlook

2026-10-05 – 2026-10-07

confirmed

CABSAT 2026 moves to the Dubai Exhibition Centre at Expo City Dubai, marking a significant venue upgrade. The edition is forecast to attract 18,800 visitors and 450+ exhibiting companies, with a refreshed floor plan and new features including the Micro Short Drama Clinic (in partnership with Whitebee Media) and a Virtual Production Studio. The event is co-located with SATEXPO and Integrate Middle East, creating a comprehensive platform for content creators, broadcast engineers, and system integrators. The rescheduling to October aligns the show more closely with the international broadcast calendar

New venue: Dubai Exhibition Centre (Expo City Dubai) with modern infrastructure and improved visitor flow Micro Short Drama Clinic: A dedicated two-day programme on vertical, bite-sized storytelling Virtual Production Studio: A fully operational zone showcasing LED volumes and XR workflows October dates (5–7 Oct) instead of May, aligning with international broadcast calendar Enhanced Content Souk marketplace for creators and buyers

Impact

A bigger and stronger platform

CABSAT 2025 reaffirmed its position as the MEASA region's premier broadcast, media, and satellite technology event. The 31st edition drew over 18,000 dedicated CABSAT visitors and, together with co-located shows Integrate Middle East and the debut SATExpo Middle East, welcomed more than 32,000 professionals and 820+ brands from 120+ countries. The event showcased over 10 new AI and automation-powered products, including SI Media's Costanza AI broadcast automation system, and featured 190 speakers across the Content Congress and SATExpo Summit. The Co-Production Salon returned for its fourth year with a 90% re-participation rate, underscoring the event's value as a deal-making hub. Major partnerships were announced, including six MoUs signed by Arabsat at SATExpo. The move to the Dubai Exhibition Centre for 2026 signals a new chapter of growth

Audience quality

High-value decision-makers

CABSAT 2025 attracted a high-quality, decision-maker audience from across the MEASA region and beyond. The event brought together 18,000+ dedicated visitors, with the co-located shows collectively drawing over 32,000 professionals including broadcasters, content creators, technology providers, satellite operators, and system integrators. The 90% re-participation rate at the Co-Production Salon indicates strong satisfaction and repeat engagement from senior content and investment professionals. Exhibitors reported serious conversations with qualified partners. Lawo, a long-time exhibitor, rated the show 'eight out of 10' and noted 'strong quality of conversations with serious partners.'- The presence of 190 speakers from global organisations and the attendance of senior industry figures, including. His Highness Sheikh Hasher bin Maktoum, further underscore the executive-level audience

Exhibitor outcomes

Real business growth

Exhibitors reported strong ROI through high-value connections, product launches, and partnership announcements. More than 10 new AI and automation products were launched at the show, indicating exhibitors view CABSAT as a prime launchpad. Arabsat signed six MoUs at SATExpo, including a cloud-broadcast partnership with Grass Valley. Carrot Broadcast noted that their booth 'stood out as one of the best' and that the focus is now on 'turning these connections into real projects.'- Lawo described the market's shift to IP workflows as showing 'real business impact' and rated the quality of conversations highly. The Co-Production Salon's 90% re-participation rate further demonstrates that the event delivers tangible deal-making value for content and investment professionals

Intelligence

Market context

Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.

MEASA (Middle East, Africa & South Asia)

Why it matters

CABSAT 2026 sits at the intersection of three powerful forces: the MEASA region's rapidly growing media market (projected to reach $22.1 billion by 2027 ), the structural shift toward AI-driven, cloud-based, and immersive production workflows, and the convergence of traditional broadcast with the creator economy. For buyers, the event offers a single platform to evaluate next-generation technologies—from AI-powered production tools and 4K/8K solutions to virtual production systems and streaming platforms—while connecting with 18,800+ decision-makers from 120+ countries. For exhibitors, CABSAT provides direct access to the region's $6.5 billion media technology market, with 450+ companies and 700+ brands showcasing innovations to senior executives from broadcasters, satellite operators, OTT platforms, and government agencies. The co-location with SATEXPO and Integrate Middle East creates a comprehensive ecosystem for content creators, broadcast engineers, system integrators, and media technology providers, making it the definitive B2B platform for the MEASA region

Industry trends

Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.

AI Moves from Experimentation to Everyday Workflows

AI adoption in broadcast has moved beyond experimentation into routine production. Automated editing, real-time captioning, multilingual localisation, and metadata management are now integrated into daily workflows, enabling faster turnaround, wider audience reach, and more precise engagement across the linguistically diverse Middle East

Source

Immersive Production and Virtual Studios Go Mainstream

Virtual production, extended reality (XR), and real-time graphics are no longer confined to high-budget productions. Costs are falling and expertise is spreading, bringing these technologies into news, entertainment, and branded content. Software-driven studios are evolving into hybrid environments where physical and digital production coexist

Source

Convergence of Traditional Broadcast and the Creator Economy

Digital-first creators are commissioning professional production, attracting brand investment, and building audiences at scale. This convergence is reshaping content funding and distribution, with co-productions, partnerships, and hybrid formats becoming more common, particularly where local stories are gaining international attention

Source

Cloud and IP Workflows Reshape Broadcast Infrastructure

Core broadcast infrastructure is being transformed by cloud production, IP-based workflows, and software-defined operations. Global brands provide proven scalable systems, while agile, mobile-first providers address specific production challenges from lightweight live contribution to streamlined on-location connectivity

Source

FAST Channels and Hybrid Revenue Models Gain Traction in MEASA

Free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) is gaining momentum in the MEASA region, driven by 90%+ smartphone penetration and expanding 5G coverage. Advertising-supported streaming is forecast to grow at 11.05% CAGR, while subscription models maintain a 40% market share, creating new opportunities for distributors who understand hybrid revenue models

Source

Market news

Latest updates from across the market.

CABSAT 2026 Postponed to October 5–7

Read

CABSAT 2026 Moves to Dubai Exhibition Centre

Read

MENA Media and Entertainment Market to Reach $76.8bn by 2031

Read

Mapping the Architecture of a Changing Media Market

Read

Why CABSAT 2026 Matters for Media Revenue Growth

Read

CABSAT, Integrate ME and SATExpo 2025 Wrap Up with 32,000+ Attendees

Read

Global Broadcast & Media Technology Event Circuit

October 2026 – October 2027

CABSAT is one of the three major global broadcast and media technology exhibitions, alongside the NAB Show in Las Vegas and IBC in Amsterdam. The event circuit also includes regional shows such as BroadcastAsia in Singapore and NAB Show New York. For professionals in the MEASA region, CABSAT serves as the anchor event, complemented by other regional gatherings throughout the year

18–22 Apr 2026

NAB Show 2026

Las Vegas, USA

Exhibits run April 19–22; strong focus on AI, sports and creator economy programming

website

20–22 May 2026

BroadcastAsia 2026

Singapore, Singapore

Part of Asia Tech x Singapore; attracts broadcasters, content owners, and technology providers from across the region

website

11–14 Sep 2026

IBC 2026

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Attracts exhibitors and speakers from over 170 countries

website

5–7 Oct 2026

Integrate Middle East 2026

Dubai, UAE

Bridges Pro AV innovation with broadcast, serving education, media, entertainment, hospitality, retail and smart infrastructure markets

website

5–7 Oct 2026

SATExpo 2026

Dubai, UAE

Hosted alongside CABSAT, focusing on satellite technology, space innovation and connectivity

website

21–22 Oct 2026

NAB Show New York 2026

New York, USA

Held at the Javits Convention Center

website

18–20 Nov 2026

Inter BEE 2026

Chiba, Japan

Brings together the latest innovations in content business from Japan and overseas

website

Spring Broadcast Season (April–May)

NAB Show 2026BroadcastAsia 2026

Kick-off events for the global broadcast calendar; NAB in Las Vegas sets the tone for North America, BroadcastAsia covers Asia-Pacific

Autumn Broadcast Season (September–October)

IBC 2026CABSAT 2026Integrate Middle East 2026SATExpo 2026NAB Show New York 2026

IBC in Amsterdam is the European flagship; CABSAT and co-located shows anchor the MEASA region; NAB Show New York covers the East Coast

Event dates and positions are compiled from official show websites and industry trade press. CABSAT, NAB and IBC are widely regarded as the 'big three' global broadcast exhibitions

Plan your trip

Travel & logistics

Local currency · AED

Arrival airports

Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.

DWC

Al Maktoum International Airport

Closest airport to Dubai Exhibition Centre, located in Dubai South. Currently serves a limited number of commercial flights but is set to become one of the world's largest passenger hubs

~22 km

to venue

20–25 minutes

by car

DXB

Dubai International Airport

Primary international airport for Dubai. Connected to the venue via Dubai Metro Red Line (Route 2020 / Expo City branch) with a journey time of approximately 70 minutes

~40 km

to venue

35–45 minutes

by car

AUH

Zayed International Airport

Major international airport serving Abu Dhabi. An alternative for visitors coming from the west, though further from the venue

~90 km

to venue

50+ minutes

by car

SHJ

Sharjah International Airport

Serves the northern emirates; a secondary option for regional flights

~60 km

to venue

45–60 minutes

by car

Hotel tiers

A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.

Premium / Luxury

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, JBR

USD 250–600 / night

Beachfront dining and networking; 15–25 min by Metro/taxi to DEC

Mid-Range / Business

Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Dubai Investment Park

USD 120–300 / night

Business hotels with variety of dining options; 10–15 min by Metro/taxi to DEC

Budget / Convenience

Expo City / Dubai South

USD 100–200 / night

Walking distance (2–10 min) to DEC; includes Rove Expo City and Cheval Maison Expo City

Local transport

Get around the city with these convenient transport options.

Dubai Metro (Red Line)

Estimated costAED 3–8.50 (USD 0.80–2.30) depending on zones, using a Nol Card

Best forExpo 2020 Station (R76) directly connects to Dubai Exhibition Centre

Trains arrive every 3–4 minutes from the Red Line network. The 'Expo City Dubai' station is located right at the venue entrance. Multi-journey Nol cards are available at all metro stations

Metered Taxi

Estimated costFrom DXB ~AED 80–120 (USD 22–33); from DWC ~AED 30–50 (USD 8–14); approx. AED 3.50/km

Best forDoor-to-door service to Dubai Exhibition Centre; taxi hubs available at both venues

Metered taxis are available at the Taxi Hub at both venues-. Airport taxis operate 24/7-. Fares are metered with clear tariffs

Ride-hailing Apps (Careem, Uber, Bolt, Yango)

Estimated costVaries by distance and demand; similar to taxi fares

Best forTo/from Dubai Exhibition Centre and across the city

Widely supported and easily accessible at both venues. Careem promo code 'CABSAT2026C' offers 20% off up to 15 AED on 2 trips to/from Expo City; Uber promo code 'CABSAT2026U' offers similar discount

Free Shuttle Bus (Parking to Venue)

Estimated costFree

Best forFrom designated parking zones to the Arrivals Plaza at Dubai Exhibition Centre

Scheduled shuttle bus services operate within Expo City, transporting visitors to and from parking zones and the venue. 80 continuous shuttle services operate within Expo City Dubai for visitor transfers

Free Shuttle Bus (DWTC to DEC)

Estimated costFree

Best forFrom Dubai World Trade Centre to Dubai Exhibition Centre

A dedicated express shuttle fleet of 30 buses links DWTC and DEC, running every 30 minutes

Public Bus (RTA)

Estimated costAED 3–8.50 (USD 0.80–2.30) using a Nol Card

Best forVarious routes across Dubai; 504 peak bus schedules on 62 routes

The Public Bus Transport system in Dubai is run by the RTA, spanning the entire emirate. Service volumes are adjusted on Fridays and public holidays

Private Car

Estimated costFree parking on-site

Best forVia Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Expo Road to Dubai Exhibition Centre

Free visitor parking available 24/7 with over 10,000 spaces. Park & Ride facilities are available at major metro hubs including Centrepoint, National Paints, E& Metro Stations. EV charging stations available

Plan your trip

Visa & entry documents

Check the latest visa requirements and entry guidelines before travelling.

Visa not required

On-arrival available

ATA Carnet: accepted

Type	Who needs it	Fee	Processing
Visa-Free Entry (90 days)	Citizens of approximately 49 countries, including Albania, Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom, United States, and others	—	Immediate upon arrival
Visa-Free Entry (30 days)	Citizens of another group of countries, including Andorra, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Monaco, Mongolia, and others	—	Immediate upon arrival
Visa on Arrival (14 or 60 days)	Citizens of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa, provided they hold a valid residence permit from the United States, an EU member state, the United Kingdom, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada	$NaN	Immediate upon arrival
Pre-arranged Tourist / Business Visit Visa	Nationals not eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry. This includes many countries in Africa, Asia, and elsewhere	$NaN	3–5 business days (standard); express options may be available

Nationals of GCC countries (Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia) do not require a visa. Citizens of over 70 countries are eligible for visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry, including all EU member states, the US, UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many others. The list is subject to change; travellers should confirm with the nearest UAE embassy or the official UAE government portal before travel

ATA Carnets are accepted for the temporary import of goods into the UAE, including for exhibitions and trade fairs. Under ATA Carnet, no customs deposit is required. The temporary admission period is 6 months or until the Carnet's expiry, whichever is shorter. Goods must be re-exported within this timeline. Only Abu Dhabi and Dubai accept import ATA Carnets. Partial shipments are not accepted. For further details, exhibitors should contact the Dubai Chamber of Commerce (800-CHAMBER) or consult their freight forwarder

Official visa page

Weather

October in Dubai is warm to hot with clear, sunny days. Average high temperatures range from 35–38°C (95–100°F) with lows around 25–28°C (77–82°F) Rain is extremely rare, with an average of fewer than 2 rainy days in the month. The UV index is high (typically 8–9), so sun protection is recommended. Venues are fully air-conditioned

Plan for the climate

Check temperatures and pack accordingly

Venue connectivity

Dubai Exhibition Centre is located in Expo City, Dubai South, with excellent transport connectivity. The venue has its own dedicated metro station – Expo 2020 Station on the Dubai Metro Red Line (Route 2020 branch), with trains arriving every 3–4 minutes. The venue is equidistant from Downtown Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Major road access is via Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311) and Expo Road. Scheduled shuttle bus services operate between parking zones and the Arrivals Plaza. Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber) are widely available

Ride-hailing

Taxis

Public transit

Car rentals

Cultural notes

Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.

Greetings and Handshakes

Greetings are formal, with a handshake being the standard. However, some Emirati men and women may not shake hands with the opposite gender due to religious customs – it is polite to wait for them to initiate. Always address business partners by their titles and last names unless invited to use first names

Business Attire

Professionalism and modesty are key. Men should wear a business suit with a tie. Women should dress modestly, covering shoulders, arms, and knees – pantsuits, long skirts, and blouses are appropriate. Revealing or overly casual clothing is not acceptable in professional settings

Business Card Etiquette

Exchange business cards with your right hand – never the left. Take a moment to examine a card before putting it away, rather than immediately slipping it into your pocket

Relationship Building

Business in the UAE is built on relationships and trust. Emiratis prefer small talk before discussing work; do not rush straight into business. Hospitality is important – it is common to be offered coffee or tea at meetings, and it is respectful to accept

Punctuality and Patience

Punctuality is valued and shows professionalism. However, be prepared for some flexibility, as meetings may start later than planned. Decision-making can take time, as senior figures often have the final say

Gift Giving

Gifts are not expected but are appreciated in certain situations. Avoid alcohol, pork products, or anything inappropriate in Islamic culture. If presenting a gift, use your right hand

Avoid Sensitive Topics

Avoid controversial topics like religion, politics, or local leadership in business conversations

Practical guides

Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials

Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.

Flights

Destination: Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

Book flights well in advance, especially for the October trade show season. Dubai is a major aviation hub with frequent connections from most global cities. DWC is closer to the venue but has limited commercial flights; DXB is the primary entry point with the most flight options

Visa

Entry to the UAE for business visitors depends on nationality. Citizens of GCC countries, the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others can enter visa-free or with a visa on arrival. Nationals of Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa may obtain a visa on arrival if they hold a valid residence permit from the US, EU, UK, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, or Canada. All other nationalities must obtain a tourist or business visit visa in advance through a sponsor (hotel, company, or travel agent)

Processing: Visa-free and visa-on-arrival are immediate; pre-arranged visas typically take 3–5 business days

Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. A confirmed onward/return ticket and proof of accommodation may be required. Business visitors should not work on a tourist or visit visa, as this is prohibited and may result in fines

Official

Hotels

Find a stay near the venue with options for every budget.

Check-in (recommended)

2026-10-04

Check-out (recommended)

2026-10-08

Areas to stay

Expo City / Dubai South · Dubai Marina / JBR · Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) · Dubai Investment Park

Walking Distance

USD 100–200 per night

Book

Mid-Range

USD 120–300 per night

Luxury / Premium

USD 250–600 per night

Transport

Get to the venue and around the city with these options.

Airport → venue: DXB: 35–40 min taxi-, ~70 min Metro; DWC: 10–20 min taxi

Hotel → venue: Metro Red Line to Expo 2020 Station (trains every 3–4 min); taxis and ride-hail widely available

Ride-hail: Uber, Careem, and local taxis available; from DXB ~AED 80–120 (USD 22–33)

Public transit: Dubai Metro Red Line (Expo 2020 station at venue entrance); free venue shuttle from parking to Arrivals Plaza

Parking: Free 24/7 visitor parking at DEC with shuttle to Arrivals Plaza

Weather

Plan and pack for the event climate.

Month: October

Temperature: High: 35–38°C (95–100°F), Low: 25–28°C (77–82°F)

Seasonality: Dry, sunny, with virtually no rain (average <2 rainy days)

Packing: Pack light, breathable fabrics for daytime, but bring a jacket or sweater for air-conditioned venues. Business formal attire is expected for the exhibition – suits for men, modest professional wear (covering shoulders, arms, knees) for women. Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat are recommended for outdoor movement

Itinerary builder

Add priorities and side trips to make the most of your visit.

Add side trips

Default day plan

08:30Arrive at Dubai Exhibition Centre; collect badge
09:00Exhibition floor opens; visit key exhibitors and pavilions
12:30Lunch break at Expo City dining options
14:00Attend a Content Congress session or panel discussion
16:00Networking at VIP Lounges or Hosted Buyer areas
17:00Exhibition floor closes; depart or attend evening networking event

Plan your trip

Planning

Best day to visit: Day 2 (Tuesday, 6 October)

Day 2 typically sees the highest concentration of attendees, full programme of sessions and demonstrations, and the BroadcastPro ME Manufacturer Awards ceremony in the evening, providing maximum networking opportunities. The first day (Monday) is often busier with VIPs and media, while the third day (Wednesday) closes early at 16:00

T-90

Confirm participation and book booth space — Secure standard or raw space; payment typically required to confirm

T-60

Finalise stand design and order services — Order furniture, AV, graphics, and any special build requirements

T-45

Arrange shipping and logistics — Book/; ensure customs documentation is prepared

T-30

T-14

Confirm travel and accommodation — Book flights, hotels, and ground transport; check visa requirements

T-7

Review agenda and schedule meetings — Plan which sessions, pavilions, and exhibitors to prioritise

T-3

Confirm stand delivery and setup status — Ensure goods have arrived and clear customs

T-2

Setup and final stand check — Install equipment, test AV, and ensure all materials are in place

T-1

Brief stand staff and final rehearsals — Review key messaging, product demos, and lead capture process

T-0

Exhibition opens – execute — Arrive early, collect badges, and begin networking

Sample visitor itinerary

Route-optimised day