The conflict between the US, Israel, and Iran, which erupted in March 2026, has rapidly transitioned from an isolated regional clash to a crisis with major global effects—specifically in economic and shipping terms.

For the exhibition and event industry, the traditional "global" model has been severely disrupted. Here is how it affects the expo world right now:

Air Travel Shutdowns

Over 21,300 flight cancellations across Middle Eastern hubs have severely disrupted West-to-East global travel. In response, Exhibitom is leveraging a decade of trusted local partnerships to support our European clients while our partners handle smooth operations on the ground.

Cancelled Events & Shifting Schedules

Major organizers have already postponed their biggest events in Dubai—such as LEAP, Middle East Energy, and the Arabian Travel Market—into late summer and fall 2026.

Short-Term Outlook (Through Mid-2027)

Until the situation stabilizes, every exhibitor must consider these lasting effects on their event strategy:

  1. Spiking Material Costs: The closure of the Strait of Hormuz means energy is expected to become more expensive, driving up manufacturing costs for all kinds of goods. Additionally, materials derived from oil—like the plastics and polymers that form the backbone of modern stands—will suffer from direct shortages and rising prices.
  2. Unreliable Global Timelines: Traditional shipping routes are no longer viable; rerouting around conflict zones means your booth components could face weeks of unexpected transit delays.
  3. Off-Season Logistics: With many Middle Eastern shows moving to the summer, exhibitors will need designs optimized for extreme heat and intensive climate control.

How Exhibitom Studio is Addressing These Concerns

We have already adjusted our operations to ensure our clients meet their goals without being at risk from regional instability. We are fixing these issues through:

A Client-First, Tailored Approach

We continue to put our clients first, believing firmly in a tailor-made approach. By analyzing the unique challenges of each project, we adapt and provide every client with the absolute best solution for their specific timeline, location, and budget.

Local Production & Remote Supervision

We are relying heavily on local production networks—sourcing local products and utilizing local build teams. Combined with strict remote supervision, this approach minimizes the risks associated with global travel disruptions and drastically reduces international shipping costs. As a powerful byproduct, we are directly reinforcing the local industries in the regions where we build.

Adaptive Design & Local Materials

To combat the shortage and rising costs of oil-derived plastics, we are actively changing our structural drawings and plans. By adapting our designs to utilize accessible, sustainable local materials—such as re-used wood plates—we bypass the volatile plastics market entirely while still delivering a premium aesthetic.

Ready to Secure Your Exhibition Strategy?

Global uncertainty doesn't have to derail your 2026 and 2027 exhibition goals. Whether you need to pivot to local European production, adapt your design for sustainable materials, or require expert remote supervision for an overseas build, we are here to help.

Contact Exhibitom Studio Today to schedule a strategic review of your upcoming stands. Let’s build a resilient, tailored solution together.

Industry Resources & Tracking

Stay updated on the shifting landscape with these official exhibition and logistics resources: