IUCN Pavilion Design & Communication Services at the World Conservation Congress, Abu Dhabi
Lead design and visual storytelling for the IUCN Programme Pavilion at the World Conservation Congress 2025, translating the organization’s global programme into an immersive exhibition experience.
OVERVIEW
Emergent Studios led the design and visual development of the IUCN Programme Pavilion at the World Conservation Congress 2025 in Abu Dhabi. As the largest pavilion at the Congress, housing three stages, the space served as a central hub for programming, events, and engagement around IUCN’s new 2026–2029 Programme.
The design transformed the programme’s complex strategic framework into a visual storytelling environment. Through large-scale graphics, imagery, and multimedia content, the pavilion highlighted conservation initiatives from around the world and demonstrated how diverse projects contribute to the pillars of the IUCN programme.
PROJECT DETAILS
Client: International Union for the Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN)
Event: World Conservation Congress 2025
Location: Abu Dhabi, UAE
Services Provided: Exhibit design, infographics, visual storytelling, roll-up design, and pre- and post-production communications products
DESIGN APPROACH
Emergent studios developed a visual narrative to guide visitors through the story of the new IUCN Programme:
Developed the overall visual concept for the pavilion, structuring the space around three stages that each represented a key impact of the IUCN 2026–2029 Programme.
Translated a complex strategic programme into visual storytelling, highlighting real-world conservation projects from across ecosystems, regions, and disciplines.
Designed more than 60 large-format graphics for the pavilion space, using high-impact imagery and concise messaging to engage a diverse international audience.
Collaborated with infrastructure designers, contractors, and internal teams to ensure project stories were cohesive and impactful, and that graphics were properly scaled, positioned, and integrated into the pavilion build.
Managed design coordination across a large project team, working with more than 50 contributors involved in the pavilion’s development and production.
Developed dynamic visual content for the reception area, including presentation materials and messaging to help visitors navigate programming and events throughout the Congress.
outcome
Located in a central area of the Congress venue, the IUCN Programme Pavilion became a major gathering space during the event, welcoming more than 10,000 attendees. The pavilion hosted presentations, discussions, and high-profile events—including award ceremonies—and visually showcased conservation stories from around the world, helping communicate and amplify the scope and impact of IUCN’s global programme.
