Exhibition Stand Builder for ISM Middle East 2026

ISM Middle East is the region's dedicated trade show for sweets and snacks, run as a joint venture between inD and Koelnmesse, the organiser of ISM Cologne. The 2026 edition takes place from 3 to 5 November 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, alongside Gulfood Manufacturing, Private Label Middle East and Gulfhost, and is free for trade visitors.

ISM Middle East 2026 at a glance

Who visits ISM Middle East

Buyers from across Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and Africa: importers, distributors, wholesalers, supermarket and convenience chains, and private-label buyers looking for new suppliers. Most conversations on the stand are distribution and pricing talks, not consumer sales.

Our stands at ISM Middle East

At ISM Middle East 2025 we designed and built stands for confectionery and snack brands including Al Mataf, Bakemate, Bakewell, Bonn, Elite Foods, Marko, Nyra, Oshon and Shakti Food.

Stand design tips for ISM Middle East

• Let the product wall do the work. Buyers scan packs while walking the aisle, so backlit shelving split by category (chocolate, biscuits, snacks) sells better than a large empty brand wall.

• Protect chocolate on display. Use LED lighting (low heat) and keep a lockable store room or chiller for samples over the three days.

• Plan for meetings. Leave space for two or three meeting tables, or a semi-closed meeting area, for distributor talks.

• Submit drawings early. Stand designs need organiser approval before build-up, so final drawings should be ready several weeks before the show.

Planning timeline

• 10–12 weeks before: confirm space and brief, start design

• 6–8 weeks before: final design, submit drawings for approval

• 3–4 weeks before: fabrication and graphics

• Build-up days: on-site installation and handover before opening; dismantling after the show closes

FAQs

When is ISM Middle East 2026?

3–5 November 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Is ISM Middle East the same as ISM Cologne?

Both are run by Koelnmesse. ISM Cologne is the main show in Germany (next edition 31 January – 3 February 2027); ISM Middle East is the Dubai edition for the Asia-Pacific, Middle East and Africa market.

How early should we book a stand builder?

Ideally 10–12 weeks before the show, so there is time for design approval and fabrication.

Can you build from our own design?

Yes. We can build from your design or artwork, or design the stand from scratch.

Gain Exposure and Elevate Your Brand

Stand out from the crowd and elevate your brand presence at ISM Middle East. Our experienced team of exhibition stand builders in Dubai will work closely with you to create a customized stand that reflects your brand identity and showcases your products in the best possible light. With our attention to detail and commitment to excellence, you can rest assured that your stand will be a standout success at the expo.