How much does it cost to organize a corporate event in Dubai?
Jun 18

How much does it cost to organize a corporate event in Dubai?

Jun 18

Introduction
Dubai is a preferred destination for corporate events—from leadership summits to brand activations and gala dinners. With world-class venues, hospitality, and infrastructure, it’s no surprise companies worldwide choose Dubai. But how much does it actually cost to organize a corporate event in the city?

In this blog, we’ll break down the average cost components of a corporate event in Dubai, give realistic budget estimates, and share tips to maximize your ROI.

1. Venue Rental

Venues in Dubai vary greatly in price depending on location, capacity, and prestige. Common options include:

  • Hotel ballrooms: AED 10,000 – AED 80,000 per day

  • Outdoor beach resorts: AED 15,000 – AED 100,000

  • Conference halls (DWTC, Expo City): AED 20,000 – AED 200,000

Pro Tip: Some venues offer free use if you book catering and accommodation with them.

2. Food & Beverage (F&B)

F&B is usually priced per guest. On average:

  • Buffet menu: AED 150 – AED 400 per head

  • Fine dining/plated service: AED 300 – AED 800 per head

  • Drinks packages (non-alcoholic): AED 30 – AED 100 per person

For a 200-person corporate dinner, expect to spend AED 60,000 – AED 150,000 on F&B alone.

3. Event Design & Production

This includes stage setup, lighting, sound systems, LED screens, and décor:

  • Basic AV setup: AED 20,000 – AED 50,000

  • Advanced tech & stage design: AED 60,000 – AED 200,000

  • Event branding & decor: AED 15,000 – AED 100,000

Costs increase for custom designs, live-streaming, or immersive installations.

4. Event Staffing

Depending on your scale, you’ll need:

  • Ushers & Hosts: AED 300 – AED 700 per person per day

  • Security: AED 500 – AED 1,000 per guard

  • Registration desk team: AED 2,000 – AED 5,000 (full-day)

Staffing is essential for smooth operations, especially in large venues.

5. Marketing & Promotion

Pre-event and on-site marketing could include:

  • Email campaigns: AED 2,000 – AED 5,000

  • Social media ads: AED 5,000 – AED 30,000

  • Influencer promotion: AED 3,000 – AED 20,000

  • Custom video teasers: AED 2,000 – AED 10,000

Don’t overlook this—marketing is key to attendee turnout and engagement.

6. Permits & Licenses

Dubai requires official permissions for public events. These include:

  • DTCM event permit: AED 2,500 – AED 5,000

  • Entertainment license (if applicable): AED 1,500 – AED 3,000

  • Insurance & NOC letters: AED 1,000 – AED 3,000

Work with a local agency to streamline this process and avoid delays.

7. Corporate Gifts & Giveaways

These help in brand recall and attendee appreciation:

  • Branded notebooks, pens, lanyards: AED 20 – AED 100 each

  • Tech giveaways (power banks, USBs): AED 50 – AED 200 each

Budget: AED 5,000 – AED 25,000 depending on event size.

8. Photography & Videography

Capture moments and produce highlight reels:

  • Photography (event coverage): AED 3,000 – AED 8,000

  • Videography + post-editing: AED 5,000 – AED 15,000

  • Livestreaming setup: AED 10,000 – AED 30,000

9. Transportation & Accommodation

If you’re flying in guests or speakers:

  • Hotel accommodation (4–5 star): AED 400 – AED 2,000 per night

  • Airport transfers & local travel: AED 5,000 – AED 20,000 total

Some venues offer corporate rates for bulk room bookings.

Sample Budget Summary (For a 150-Pax Event):

  • Venue: AED 40,000

  • F&B: AED 60,000

  • Production & AV: AED 50,000

  • Marketing: AED 20,000

  • Staffing: AED 10,000

  • Permits & Insurance: AED 5,000

  • Gifts: AED 10,000

  • Photography & Video: AED 10,000

  • Misc: AED 10,000

Total Estimated Cost: AED 215,000 – AED 300,000

Tips to Reduce Costs Without Compromising Quality

  • Choose off-season dates (summer months) for lower venue rates

  • Bundle services with a single agency

  • Use reusable or digital branding assets

  • Go hybrid to reduce in-person attendee overhead