Ghadan 21 scenic backdrop walls framing the central presentation screen in Abu Dhabi.

Collaborative workshops require event environments that can shift between discussion, presentation and formal programme moments without losing clarity or functionality. For Ghadan 21 – The Gathering at the Saadiyat Rotana Hotel in Abu Dhabi, Evolution Scenic transformed the ballroom into a multi-functional environment supporting three days of workshops, presentations, panels and final awards.


Organised by the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities, the event brought together leading experts in urban planning and architecture to develop six key initiatives focused on Abu Dhabi’s future. Evolution Scenic’s scope included bespoke workshop furniture, staging, carpeting, decorative scenic elements, truss systems and structural support for technical equipment.

Evolution Scenic red scenic panels integrated around LED screens at Saadiyat Rotana.

The Challenge


The ballroom needed to accommodate several different programme formats within one shared venue.


Participants required dedicated workshop areas for collaborative sessions, while the same environment also needed to support an auditorium, keynote presentations, panel discussions and the final awards ceremony.


This meant the venue had to be divided into clearly defined functional zones without making the overall space feel fragmented.


Technical infrastructure also needed to be incorporated, with truss systems and structural supports required for AV equipment and other event systems.


The delivery programme was tight, making accurate fabrication, sequencing and on-site coordination essential.

Evolution Scenic structures coordinated with truss and technical systems.

The Solution


Evolution Scenic developed a turnkey scenic and structural solution tailored to the event programme.


Custom workshop tables, furniture and decorative elements were designed and fabricated specifically for the collaborative working environment, giving each group a practical space for discussion and development.


Carpeting, staging and bespoke scenic elements were installed throughout the ballroom to create a consistent and professional finish.


The venue was reconfigured into separate functional zones, including workshop areas, an auditorium and a dedicated stage for keynote speeches, panels and the closing programme.


Truss systems and structural supports were also provided to accommodate AV setups and specialised technical equipment while maintaining the visual integrity of the event environment.


By coordinating the furniture, staging, structural systems and scenic fit-out as one package, Evolution Scenic created a flexible venue capable of supporting the different phases of the three-day programme.

Evolution Scenic modular main stage and red screen surrounds for The Gathering.

Delivery Highlights


• Scenic production for Ghadan 21 – The Gathering.

• Event held from 19–21 March 2019.

• Venue at Saadiyat Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi.

• Three-day urban planning and architecture workshop.

• Organised by the Department of Urban Planning and Municipalities.

• Six key urban initiatives developed during the programme.

• Bespoke workshop tables.

• Custom event furniture.

• Decorative scenic elements.

• Carpet installation.

• Custom staging.

• Workshop zones.

• Dedicated auditorium environment.

• Stage for keynote speeches and panels.

• Final presentation and awards setup.

• Truss systems.

• Structural support for AV equipment.

• Multi-functional ballroom transformation.

• Fast-track delivery and installation.

Evolution Scenic directional signage integrated with the Ghadan 21 ballroom environment.

Outcome


The completed Ghadan 21 environment transformed the Saadiyat Rotana Ballroom into a flexible setting capable of supporting intensive workshops, presentations, panel discussions and the final awards programme.


The custom workshop furniture gave participants defined spaces for collaborative work, while the auditorium and stage provided a clear transition into larger shared sessions.


The integration of staging, carpeting, scenic elements and technical support helped create a cohesive environment despite the different functions taking place across the three-day programme.


The project demonstrates Evolution Scenic’s ability to deliver workshop-led event environments where furniture, spatial zoning, staging and technical infrastructure must work together within one coordinated fit-out.

Architectural skyline entrance feature fabricated for The Gathering conference environment.

Project Ecosystem


Evolution Scenic – Scenic fit-out, custom workshop furniture, decorative elements, staging, carpeting, auditorium setup, truss systems, structural support, delivery and installation.

Large printed perimeter walls dividing workshop zones inside the hotel ballroom.