Middle East Event Awards – Judging Criteria

This award category recognises the best arts & cultural event which represented and celebrated a culture, art, tradition, or holiday. The event must have been open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event or a series of events organised under one main event title. Private or corporate events are not eligible. Judges will evaluate the following:

• Artistic merit: The event’s creativity, originality, and quality of the performances, exhibits, or installations.
• Audience engagement: how well the event engaged and entertained the audience, as well as the level of participation, interaction, and feedback from the attendees.
• Cultural impact: The event's impact on the local community, including its contribution to the cultural, social, and economic development of the region.
• Organization and management: The event's organization and management, including the planning, budgeting, marketing, staffing, and logistics.

This award category recognises the efforts of an outstanding corporate or business event that effectively engaged with its audience and achieved business core objectives. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Meeting objectives: How well the meeting achieved its objectives, including the alignment with the organization's goals, the clarity of the agenda, and the relevance and usefulness of the content.
• Attendee satisfaction: The level of attendee satisfaction with the meeting, including the quality of the venue, the food and beverage, the audio-visual equipment, and the overall experience.
• Innovation and creativity: The level of innovation and creativity in the meeting, including the use of technology, interactive formats, and new approaches to learning and networking.
• Stakeholder engagement: The level of stakeholder engagement in the meeting, including the participation and input of key stakeholders, such as sponsors, exhibitors, speakers, and attendees.

This award category recognises the event that has made a significant positive impact on a community and successfully brought people together, fostered a sense of community spirit, and contributed to the overall well-being of the community. The judges will consider the following:

• Purpose and goals: The clarity and relevance of the event's purpose and goals, including the alignment with the community's needs and interests, and the effectiveness of the event in achieving its goals.
• Community involvement and participation: The level of community involvement and participation in the event, including the diversity, inclusivity, and accessibility of the event, and the opportunities for the community to engage, collaborate, and contribute.
• Impact on the community: The positive impact of the event on the community, including the social, cultural, environmental, and economic impact, and the ability of the event to address a specific issue, promote a cause, or enhance the well-being of the community.
• Execution and delivery: The quality of the event's planning, promotion, and management, including the attention to detail, the quality of the programming and activities, the safety and security measures, and the overall experience and satisfaction of the attendees.

This award is designed to recognise an employer in the events industry that has created a stimulating and supportive workplace with well-motivated, well-trained employees. The award will celebrate a company that has created a positive work culture which nurtures, supports, and inspires its employees to achieve their potential. As such, the Employer of the Year will be seen as an “Employer of Choice.” The judges will assess the following:

• Employee Engagement and Satisfaction: The company's ability to create a positive and inclusive workplace culture that promotes teamwork, communication, and respect. They will look for evidence of high employee engagement and satisfaction, such as feedback from employee surveys and reviews.
• Diversity and Inclusion: The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion in its hiring, promotion, and retention practices. They will look for evidence of how the company fosters a diverse and inclusive workplace culture, including training, mentoring, and other initiatives that promote equality and inclusion.
• Employee Retention: The company's ability to retain employees and create a stable and productive workforce. They will look for evidence of how the company promotes employee retention through employee engagement, satisfaction, career development, and benefits.

This award category recognises the most creative and exceptional event production that delivered a high-quality entertainment experience, and audience engagement, demonstrating an understanding of the target market. The judges will assess the following:

• Entertainment Value: The overall entertainment value of the production, including its ability to engage and excite the audience. They will look for evidence of how the production creates a memorable and enjoyable experience for the attendees.
• Creativity and Innovation: The production's creativity and innovation, including the use of unique and innovative elements that set it apart from other productions in its category. They will look for evidence of how the production incorporates new ideas and technologies in its design.
• Technical Excellence: The production's technical excellence, including the quality of sound, lighting, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the production uses technology to enhance the performance and the audience experience.
• Artistic Quality: The artistic quality of the production, including the quality of performances, musicality, choreography, and other artistic elements. They will look for evidence of how the production showcases high levels of artistic skill and expertise.
• Audience Response: The audience's response to the production, including feedback from attendees, reviews, and social media. They will look for evidence of how the production has a positive impact on the audience and how it meets the audience's expectations.

This award is dedicated to honoring the outstanding contributions made by event logistics providers in shaping the landscape of events and exhibitions within the region. It recognizes companies that have demonstrated excellence in product or service delivery, making a significant impact on the overall success of events. The judges will evaluate nominees based on the following criteria:

• Quality & Network of Logistics Solutions: The logistics provider's services will be evaluated based on how well they align with the high standards demanded by the events industry including network coverage, volumes transported, world-class storage facilities and a wide range of delivery options. Judges will also consider their meticulous attention to detail, ensuring precision in the planning and execution of logistics services.
• Reliability and Responsiveness: Nominees will be judged on their track record for reliability in delivering services. Furthermore, the evaluation includes responsiveness to client needs, assessing the logistics provider's ability to accommodate last-minute changes and requests. Effective communication skills will also be considered, with a focus on demonstrating a proactive and solution-oriented approach to client interactions.
• Innovation and Creativity: Finally, the judges will evaluate the logistics provider's capacity for innovation within the events industry, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable practices. Additionally, they’ll assess the provider's ability to adapt to evolving industry trends and challenges while integrating Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) principles into innovative approaches.

This award is designed to recognise an outstanding marketing campaign created specifically for an event (single event or series). A marketing campaign that has demonstrated excellence in promoting and advertising an event to its target audience by achieved outstanding results in terms of audience engagement. The campaign may include a variety of marketing channels, such as digital media, social media, print media, email, and other forms of communication. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Creativity and Innovation: The campaign’s overall concept, messaging, design, and execution.
• Audience Engagement: The campaign’s ability to engage and connect with the target audience in a meaningful way. This can be achieved through a variety of tactics, such as interactive experiences, personalized content, social media engagement, and more.
• Measurable Results: The success of the campaign against specific, measurable goals, such as ticket sales, attendance, social media engagement, and media coverage. The campaign should also demonstrate a positive impact on the overall brand image and reputation.
• Overall Impact: Finally, the judges will assess the campaign based on its overall impact beyond the event itself, whether in terms of building brand awareness, generating new leads and customers, or strengthening relationships with existing ones.

This award category recognizes the events that managed to create a high impact and deliver great results on a limited/relatively low budget. The events in this category are evaluated on their ability to creatively and effectively use their limited resources to deliver a high-quality experience for attendees. The judges will consider the following:

• Cost Efficiency: The event must demonstrate that it was delivered on a tight budget, with a focus on finding creative and innovative ways to minimize costs without compromising on the overall quality of the event.
• Creativity: The event should showcase originality and resourcefulness in utilizing low-cost solutions for event elements such as venue selection, decor, food and beverage, technology, and other production elements. Judges will look for examples of innovative solutions that were successfully implemented.
• Attendee Experience: The event should deliver a memorable and enjoyable experience for attendees despite its budget limitations. Judges will evaluate the event's ability to engage attendees, create a positive atmosphere, and deliver an exceptional overall experience.
• Impact: The event should demonstrate its ability to achieve its objectives, whether it's to promote a brand or product, or engage a specific target audience. The judges will look for evidence of a positive impact on the attendees, the community, or the organization hosting the event.

This award recognizes excellence in capturing the essence of an event through exceptional photography and videography. It honors professionals who go beyond the lens to create a visual narrative that resonates with the audience and leaves a lasting impact. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creativity and Innovation: Judges will consider the overall creativity and innovation exhibited in the event photography and videography. This includes the conceptualization, messaging, visual design, and execution of the captured content.
• Technical Excellence: Judges will evaluate the technical aspects of the submissions, including the quality of images and videos, proficiency in camera techniques, and mastery of post-production processes.
• Impactful Storytelling: Judges will look for impactful storytelling through visuals. This involves creating a clear and interesting storyline that helps viewers better grasp the event, its purpose, and the significant moments.
• Client Satisfaction: Feedback from clients or event organizers will play a significant role. Judges will consider testimonials and client satisfaction regarding the photographer's or videographer's professionalism, adherence to timelines, and fulfillment of client expectations.

This award recognises the event that has excelled in creating a visually stunning and unique atmosphere. The events in this category are evaluated on their ability to create an immersive and memorable experience for attendees through the use of lighting, props, decor, and other design elements. The judges will consider the following:

• Creativity and Originality: The events ability to showcase originality and creativity in utilizing design elements such as lighting, decor, props, and other design elements that make the space unique and memorable. Judges will look for examples of innovative solutions that were successfully implemented and complemented the overall theme or concept of the event.
• Attention to Detail: The events ability to demonstrate a high level of attention to detail, whether it's in the choice of materials, colors, textures, or overall styling. The judges will evaluate the precision of execution and quality of the design, and how it all comes together to create an immersive and unforgettable experience.

This award recognises a consumer or trade exhibition that has demonstrated excellence in organising a successful exhibition with the most innovative and flawless execution plan to meet core business objectives. The judges will consider the following:

• Objectives and strategy: The exhibition's objectives and strategy, including the relevance of the theme and industry, the clarity of the goals, and the effectiveness of the approach in engaging the target audience.
• Attendee numbers and experience: The total number of attendees, quality of the attendee experience, including the ease of registration, the quality of the exhibits, the availability and accessibility of information, the level of interactivity, and the overall satisfaction of the attendees.
• Exhibitor numbers and experience: The total number of exhibitors, quality of the exhibitor experience, including the ease of setup and dismantle, the quality of the booth design, the level of support and assistance provided, and the overall satisfaction of the exhibitors.
• Marketing and promotion: The effectiveness of the marketing and promotion efforts, including the clarity and coherence of the messaging, the use of social media, advertising, and other channels, and the ability to reach and engage the target audience.

This award recognises the festival that has a unique and compelling theme and has delivered an outstanding experience for attendees through innovative programming, entertainment, and attractions. The judges will assess the following:

• Programming: The overall programming of the festival, including the diversity, quality, and originality of the events, activities, and performances. They will look for evidence of how the festival creates a unique and memorable experience for the attendees.
• Production Quality: The production quality of the festival, including the sound, lighting, staging, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the festival uses technology and resources to enhance the performances and activities.
• Attendee Experience: The overall attendee experience, including the ease of access, crowd management, facilities, and services provided. They will look for evidence of how the festival creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment for the attendees.
• Innovation and Creativity: The level of innovation and creativity of the festival, including the use of unique and innovative elements that set it apart from other festivals in its category. They will look for evidence of how the festival incorporates new ideas and technologies in its design.

The award category recognises the company who has provided the most innovative and effective lighting & sound solution for an event by demonstrating exceptional creativity and technical expertise in designing and implementing the event’s lighting setup. The judges will assess the following:

• Creativity and innovation: The level of creativity and innovation in the audio and lighting solution, including the use of cutting-edge technology, unique and original design, and innovative ways of enhancing the event's theme and atmosphere.
• Technical expertise: The technical expertise of the solution provider, including the quality of the equipment, the setup, and the operation, as well as the ability to troubleshoot and adapt to unexpected situations.
• Impact on the event: The impact of the audio and lighting solution on the event's success, including the level of engagement, entertainment, and emotional response of the attendees, and the contribution to the event's goals and objectives.
• Efficiency and reliability: The efficiency and reliability of the solution, including the ease of setup, the ability to meet the event's schedule, the capacity to handle unexpected situations, and the durability of the equipment.

This award recognises an outstanding event, or set of events in terms of organisation, creativity, and entertainment value that has been branded as a music event or concert. All music events must have been open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event or a series of events organised under one main event title spread over a number of days. The judges will assess the following:

• Music programming: The overall programming of the music event, including the diversity, quality, and originality of the music performances. They will look for evidence of how the event creates a unique and memorable experience for the attendees.
• Production quality: The production quality of the music event, including the sound, lighting, staging, and other technical aspects that contribute to the overall experience. They will look for evidence of how the event uses technology and resources to enhance the performances.
• Attendee experience: The overall attendee experience, including the ease of access, crowd management, facilities, and services provided. They will look for evidence of how the event creates a comfortable and enjoyable environment for the attendees.
• Marketing and promotion: The quality and effectiveness of the marketing and promotion of the music event, including the use of various channels and techniques to generate interest and drive attendance.

This award is designed to recognise the effort that is required to successfully plan, organise and manage a social event, including weddings, milestone events such as birthday and anniversary parties and celebrational corporate/networking events. Events eligible for this award include: awards ceremonies, gala dinners, celebrations and balls. Commercial conferences and exhibitions are not eligible for this award. The judges will consider the following:

• Overall design and theme: The overall design and theme of the social event, including the creativity and originality of the concept, the consistency and attention to detail in the decor, and the ability of the event to create a cohesive and memorable experience for the attendees.
• Food and beverage: The quality, creativity, and presentation of the food and beverage served at the event, as well as the efficiency and effectiveness of the service staff and logistics.
• Entertainment and activities: The quality and creativity of the entertainment and activities provided at the event, including the ability of the event to engage and entertain the attendees, and to create a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.
• Guest experience: The overall guest experience, including the quality of the hospitality and guest services provided, the efficiency and effectiveness of the logistics and operations, and the overall satisfaction and feedback of the attendees.

This award recognises an outstanding sporting event or set of sporting events in terms of organisation, creativity and sporting value. The event must have been open to the public to attend and can be a one-day event or a series of events organised under one main event title. Private events are not eligible. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Event concept and planning: The concept and planning of the event, including the originality and creativity of the idea, the feasibility of the event, and the quality of the planning and organization.
• Venue and facilities: The quality of the venue and facilities used for the event, including the suitability and capacity of the venue, the quality and functionality of the facilities and equipment, and the efficiency and effectiveness of the logistics.
• Marketing and promotion: The effectiveness and creativity of the marketing and promotional strategies used for the event, including the reach and engagement of the audience, the effectiveness of the messaging, and the success in generating interest and ticket sales.
• Attendee experience: The overall attendee experience, including the level of engagement and entertainment, the quality of the hospitality and guest services, and the overall satisfaction and feedback of the attendees.

The award category recognises the agency that demonstrates excellence in providing staffing solutions for the event industry. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Professionalism and quality of staff: The professionalism and quality of the agency's staff, including their level of training, experience, and expertise in the event industry.
• Efficiency and effectiveness of the staffing process: The agency's staffing process, including the efficiency and effectiveness of the recruitment, training, and deployment of staff for events. The judges may consider factors such as the agency's ability to meet the unique staffing needs of each event, the timeliness of staffing, and the effectiveness of the agency's communication and coordination with event organizers.
• Client satisfaction and feedback: The overall satisfaction and feedback of the agency's clients, including event organizers and attendees. The judges may consider factors such as client testimonials, survey data, and other feedback metrics to evaluate the agency's performance and level of customer satisfaction.

This award category recognizes excellence in the design and construction of exhibition stands and the efforts of companies that have created outstanding stand designs and have delivered high-quality build services for their clients. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Creativity and innovation: The stand designs that demonstrate originality, innovation, and creativity in terms of concept, layout, and visual impact.
• Functionality and user experience: The stand should be designed to offer an exceptional user experience, making it easy for visitors to interact with the brand and its products or services.
• Quality of construction and materials used: The quality of the build, including the materials used, will also be evaluated.

This award is designed to recognise the impact a supplier to the industry has had on the region’s exhibition and event landscape by providing an excellent product or excellent service delivery. This category recognizes the efforts of suppliers who have met their clients' needs and who have shown outstanding performance in quality, reliability, and customer service. The judges will consider the following:

• Quality of products or services: The quality of the supplier's products or services and their ability to meet the needs of their clients. They will consider the supplier's attention to detail, the use of high-quality materials, and their ability to deliver products or services on time and within budget.
• Reliability and responsiveness: The supplier's reliability and responsiveness to client needs, including their ability to handle last-minute changes or requests. They will consider the supplier's communication skills, responsiveness, and problem-solving ability.
• Customer service and client satisfaction: The supplier's level of customer service and their ability to provide a positive customer experience. They will consider client feedback, testimonials, and case studies that demonstrate the supplier's ability to meet client needs and exceed their expectations.
• Innovation and creativity: The supplier's ability to innovate and bring new and creative solutions to the events industry.

This award recognises an event or company that promotes and raises environmental awareness and integrates sustainable green practices and innovative strategies to event planning that show environmental consciousness and strive for sustainability. The judges will assess the following:

• Sustainability strategy and objectives: The clarity and comprehensiveness of the sustainability strategy, as well as the measurable objectives set to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability.
• Impact on the environment and community: The measurable impact of the sustainability initiative on the environment and the community, including the amount of waste reduced, energy saved, and greenhouse gas emissions avoided, as well as the extent of the positive impact on the local community.
• Stakeholder engagement: The extent of stakeholder engagement, including the involvement of vendors, suppliers, and attendees in the sustainability efforts, as well as the level of education and awareness-raising achieved among stakeholders.

This award recognises an innovative and creative temporary venue or structure installation used to deliver a unique event experience. This can include temporary buildings, tents, stages, or other structures designed specifically for an event or series of events. The judges will consider the following:

• Design and creativity: The overall design and creativity of the temporary venue or structure, including the aesthetic appeal, functionality, and suitability for the event or events being hosted.
• Innovation and technical achievement: The level of innovation and technical achievement involved in creating the temporary venue or structure, such as the use of new materials, technologies, or building methods.
• Safety and compliance: The safety and compliance measures in place for the temporary structure or venue, including compliance with relevant regulations and standards.
• Overall impact and effectiveness: The overall impact and effectiveness of the temporary venue or structure in meeting the needs of the event and creating a unique and memorable experience for attendees.

This award recognises events and organizations that have leveraged cutting-edge technology to enhance the attendee experience, improve event management and logistics, or achieve other event-related goals. These products/solutions need to have a direct impact on the event. The judges will assess the following:

• Innovation and creativity: The level of innovation and creativity involved in the use of new technology at the event, including the use of emerging technologies, unique applications of existing technologies, and the overall impact on the attendee experience.
• Integration and implementation: The how effectively the new technology was integrated into the event, including the quality of implementation, the level of training and support provided to staff and attendees, and the overall effectiveness of the technology in achieving event goals.
• User experience and engagement: The impact of the new technology on the user experience and engagement, including the ease of use, accessibility, and overall impact on attendee satisfaction and engagement.
• Measurable impact and results: The measurable impact and results of the new technology, including its effectiveness in achieving event-related goals, improving event management and logistics, or enhancing attendee experience.

This award recognises permanent structures that are used as events venues. These permanent structures can be purpose-built venues and/or physical venues within an existing facility (for example a hotel or leisure development). The judges will evaluate the following:

• Facilities and amenities: The quality and variety of facilities and amenities offered by the venue, including meeting rooms, exhibition spaces, break-out facilities, food and beverage options, technology and audio-visual capabilities, and other services that enhance the attendee experience.
• Event management and support: The judges will assess the quality and responsiveness of the venue's event management and support team, including the level of support provided to event organizers and the effectiveness of the team in managing events.
• Reputation and track record: The judges will evaluate the venue's reputation and track record in hosting successful events, including feedback from past clients and attendees.
• Flexibility and adaptability: The judges will assess the venue's flexibility and adaptability, including its ability to accommodate a variety of event types and sizes, and its ability to adapt to changing event needs.

This award recognizes an exceptional video solution that stands out for its innovation, impact, and effectiveness in meeting specific goals. Whether it's for marketing, communication, or entertainment purposes, the Best Video Solution Award celebrates excellence in leveraging the power of video. Judges will evaluate submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creativity and Innovation: Judges will assess the overall creativity and innovation demonstrated in the video solution. This includes the concept, messaging, design, and the execution of the video content. They’ll also look at interactive elements, personalized content, and effective use of storytelling.
• Measurable Results: The success of the video solution against specific, measurable goals will be evaluated. This includes metrics like viewership, engagement rates, conversion rates, and any other relevant key performance indicators.
• Technical Excellence: Judges will consider the technical aspects of the video solution, including production quality, cinematography, editing, and overall presentation. Technical proficiency and innovation in video technology will also be considered.

This award recognizes excellence in orchestrating unforgettable wedding experiences. This award pays homage to the event planners, designers, and teams who transform dreams into reality. Judges will assess submissions based on the following criteria:

• Creative Vision and Execution: Judges will evaluate the overall creativity and innovation in the wedding event's concept, design, and execution. This includes the uniqueness of themes, decor, and personalized touches that make the celebration stand out.
• Memorable Moments: Judges will seek out those unforgettable moments that define the wedding. This includes capturing and enhancing the significance of key moments such as the vows, speeches, and other ceremonial aspects.
• Innovative Elements: Recognition will be given to innovative elements incorporated into the wedding event, whether in ceremony traditions, entertainment, or unexpected surprises that delight and leave a lasting impression.
• Flexibility and Adaptability: The ability to adapt to unexpected circumstances while maintaining the integrity of the wedding event will be considered. Flexibility and problem-solving skills in the face of challenges are key.

This award category recognizes an individual who has made significant contributions to the event industry over the course of their career. The winner of this award will be an industry leader who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, creativity, and innovation, and who has had a significant impact on the industry through their work. The judges will consider the following:

• Professional achievements: The professional achievements of the individual, including their contributions to the industry, their impact on their organization, and their overall success.
• Industry leadership: The individual's leadership in the industry, including their ability to inspire and motivate others, their role in developing best practices, and their overall impact on the industry.
• Creativity and innovation: The individual's creativity and innovation in the industry, including their ability to think outside the box, to develop new approaches and solutions, and to drive positive change in the industry.
• Industry impact: The individual's impact on the industry, including their influence on industry trends, their involvement in industry associations and organizations, and their overall contribution to the growth and development of the industry.

This award is designed to recognise an outstanding brand activation event (single event or series) that created effective touchpoints between the brand and (potential) consumers to provide an extraordinary brand experience for end-users. The judges will evaluate the following:

• Brand alignment: The how well the event aligns with the brand's values, messaging, and image, and how effectively it communicates the brand's unique selling proposition.
• Engagement: How well the event engages the audience and creates a memorable experience, including the use of interactive elements, immersive environments, and other experiential marketing techniques.
• Execution: The overall execution of the event, including the quality of the production, the level of detail in the design and execution, and the effectiveness of the event in achieving its goals.
• ROI: The return on investment (ROI) of the event, including the impact on brand awareness, brand perception, and sales or other key performance indicators.

This award category will acknowledge, encourage, and recognise the outstanding achievements of a young event professional (30 years old or younger) within the events industry who has contributed greatly to the success of their business, the company they work for, or a specific event or series of events. The judges will assess the following:

• Professional accomplishments: The young professional's professional achievements, including their track record of success in the event industry and any specific projects or initiatives they have led.
• Leadership: The young professional's leadership skills, including their ability to inspire and motivate others, their strategic thinking, and their ability to drive results.
• Innovation: The young professional's creativity and innovation in the event industry, including their ability to develop and implement new ideas, strategies, and technologies.
• Impact: The young professional's impact on the industry, including the extent to which they have contributed to the growth and development of the industry, and their potential to shape the future of the industry.