Technology Trends for Large Events and Festivals

The Middle East is home to some of the biggest music concerts, religious festivals, and other outdoor events. With outdoor venues in Abu Dhabi such as the Du Arena, for instance, organizing international events such as the Formula 1® becomes more plausible. But there is more to planning and executing events than simply looking for a venue.

It is important to consider location, amenities, ambiance, security, and suppliers when creating a unique and memorable experience for participants. A combination of these factors can affect not just the overall atmosphere, but also the cost and bottom line for businesses.

The events industry also continues to evolve. Organizers use technology to enhance the event experience they provide. Some are also designed to collect data from participants, so organizers can learn more about the market and discover which areas to improve on for future events.

Venue and event experts on handling current and upcoming events in Abu Dhabi share their insights on which technologies will be beneficial when handling large crowds.

Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)

In wristbands, cards, badges, and similar devices with RFID, the data is transmitted wirelessly using radio-frequency waves. Organizers can use RFID to collect data and create a smoother, more seamless experience for guests and attendees. From the moment they check in until people leave the site, the tag works hard at transmitting data.

For instance, the tags can shorten waiting times and make check-ins quicker. They also make it possible for organizers and brands to determine where attendees go, and which booths or activities do well with the crowd, among others. Through polls and surveys, attendees can also use RFID devices to interact with brands and sponsors.

The technology can also be taken to a whole new level. Combined with facial recognition and the right software, RFID can be used to analyze and decipher body language. In a large festival with hundreds of attendees, brands can use this information to predict the mood of the crowd and make adjustments as needed.

Chatbots

Numerous brands have been utilizing chatbots and digital assistants for some time. Chatbots, for one, are often used to provide customer service to clients. In homes, people use digital assistants, such as Siri and Alexa, to do research and perform simple tasks such as research nearby restaurants or play music, among others.

In the case of large events, the use of chatbots offers a way to quickly provide information and answer questions from the audience and potential attendees. Compared to hiring staff, it could be a more cost-effective approach to marketing, disseminating information, and providing customer service. No need to call a hotline and wait for hours to be served – participants can get what they need, as quickly as if they were calling up a friend or talking to a neighbor.

Live streaming options

Why limit access to your event to people who can physically come when you can include people from all across the globe? Budget constraints and availability are a few issues some people face when deciding to attend a major event. In some cases, such as in the emergence of a pandemic, or if there is no venue big enough to hold the event, going virtual may be the only option possible.

When you offer live streaming options, people from other countries can share the moment with those at the site. Watching it from a screen may not provide the same thrill or vibe as being physically there, but for some people, and in certain situations, having that opportunity to follow the event on TV, phone or laptop, is better than none at all.

Much like chatbots, live streaming options have been around for some time. Social media channels such as Facebook and Twitch offer users the ability to capture and share what is around them in real time. Quality tends to be limited, depending on the device they are holding and where they are situated at that time.

Organizers and brands, however, have access to better positions and equipment. With quality recording and broadcasting equipment, they can air events live, in high resolution, and make it available to people around the world.

Offering a virtual option can be a double-edged sword for some businesses. Some companies may think that livestreaming will eat at their potential profits and provide a lower return on investment. However, with the right marketing strategy, companies can use the option to increase attendance and get more people to buy tickets.

Mobile apps

Applications or apps have become a staple for many brands and corporate events. They provide many benefits, including disseminating information, answering inquiries, and processing payments, among others. Games and other features can also be designed to keep people engaged longer.

Mobile apps can bring people together as well. With messaging options and games, for instance, organizers can offer people opportunities to know the other guests while getting hyped for upcoming events.

Organizing and executing an event involving thousands or tens of thousands of people can be a challenge, even for the most experienced organizers. There is also the risk of losing engagement. But with the help of these technologies, events can continue to be unique and memorable.