Big 5 Dubai is the Middle East's largest international construction trade show, drawing 70,000 professionals from 150+ countries to the Dubai World Trade Centre each November. US construction technology companies, building product manufacturers, and smart building solution providers exhibit alongside global leaders. Non-UAE exhibitors need an ATA Carnet to bring professional equipment and demonstration systems into the UAE without paying import duties.
US and other international exhibitors at Big 5 Dubai need an ATA Carnet covering professional equipment and exhibition goods. The UAE accepts carnets for all standard ATA categories including construction technology, survey equipment, drones, and display systems. Big 5 runs in November alongside ADIPEC — a single UAE-bound carnet covers both shows in the same trip.
8 weeks before Big 5 (September)
Begin equipment list. Construction technology systems, survey instruments, and structural monitoring equipment require serial numbers and accurate USD values.
5–6 weeks before
Submit carnet application. UAE Customs verifies construction equipment descriptions carefully — specify device type, manufacturer, model, and serial number.
3 weeks before
Receive carnet. Authorize your Dubai freight forwarder to present it at DXB cargo, Jebel Ali, or DWTC on your behalf.
Arrival at DXB
Present carnet to UAE Customs at Dubai International Airport. Officers stamp importation vouchers. DWTC freight is cleared at the port of first entry.
Big 5 show days (approximately 4 days)
Keep carnet accessible at your stand. UAE Customs may verify construction equipment documentation on the show floor.
Departure from UAE
Obtain re-exportation stamps from UAE Customs before equipment leaves the UAE. Essential for discharge.
Within 2 weeks of return
Return completed carnet to EasyCarnet for USCIB or Canadian Chamber discharge.
Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Primary gateway — UAE Customs at DXB processes carnets; DWTC is a 20-minute drive; November timing coincides with ADIPEC in Abu Dhabi
Dubai World Trade Centre
Big 5 Dubai venue; freight coordinated through DWTC's official logistics partner with carnet documentation
Jebel Ali Port
Sea freight entry for large construction equipment; one of the world's busiest container ports with efficient UAE Customs processing
Ready to apply?
Starting at $499 for equipment under $10k. Same-day processing available.
Start ApplicationStarting at $499 for equipment valued under $10k. Same-day processing available for last-minute bookings.