Answers · updated 10 November 2026

Frequently asked questions

Find answers to the most common questions about VARA Expo.

All questions · 3 groups

Visiting

Entry, hours, getting there, facilities

When and where is the Expo taking place?

Vara Expo 2026 will be held at Central Park, Hulhumale’ from 26th to 28th November 2026.

What are the specialized areas or zones in the Expo?

The Expo will feature dedicated zones designed to help visitors connect with opportunities that match their interests, aspirations, and career goals.

  • Career Zone: Connect directly with employers, explore job vacancies, and learn about career development opportunities. 
  • Education Zone: Discover academic programmes, vocational training, skills development courses, and education pathways offered by institutions and training providers. 
  • Skills Experience Zone: Participate in hands-on workshops and interactive demonstrations covering areas such as crafts, carpentry, electrical work, and information technology.
  • Market Zone: Enjoy a variety of food and beverages while exploring booths showcasing authentic locally made products, crafts, and other goods. 

What can I expect at the Expo as a visitor?

Visitors can explore career and education opportunities, attend interactive workshops and demonstrations, engage directly with employers and education providers, participate in career-related activities, and learn about future skills and emerging industries. In addition, visitors can enjoy a variety of food and beverages, discover authentic locally made products and crafts, and purchase items showcased by exhibitors in the designated Market Zone. 

Is there an entry fee for visitors?

No, entry to Vara Expo is free for all visitors. 

Do I need to register as a visitor?

Visitors may attend the Expo without prior registration. However, registration will be required on the spot and maybe for selected workshops, competitions, or special activities. 

Students & job seekers

CVs, interviews, scholarships

Can I apply for jobs or courses at the Expo?

Yes. Many exhibitors will offer job vacancies, internships, apprenticeships, training programmes, educational courses, and career guidance opportunities. Visitors are encouraged to bring copies of their CVs and relevant documents where applicable. 

Is the Expo suitable for school students?

 Yes. Vara Expo is open to secondary and higher secondary students, college and university students, and recent school leavers. The Education Zone and Skills Experience Zone are especially useful if you’re choosing a study path or career direction. 

Can I find scholarships or financial aid information at the Expo?

Yes. Many education institutions and organisations in the Education Zone will share information on scholarships, loans, fee structures and other financial support for their programmes. 

Are there internships or part-time opportunities for students?

Yes. Several exhibitors in the Career Zone will offer internships, apprenticeships and entry-level roles. Bring a copy of your CV, even a simple one, and your certificates if you have them. 

Can I try hands-on activities even if I have no experience?

Absolutely. The Skills Experience Zone is designed for beginners. You can join demonstrations and workshops in areas such as crafts, carpentry, electrical work and IT. Some workshops may need on-the-spot registration because places are limited. 

Will there be career guidance or counselling at the Expo?

 Yes. Career advisors will be available to help students explore options, understand pathways and plan their next steps. 

Exhibitors

Stands, costs, build and breakdown

What can I expect at the Expo as an exhibitor?

Exhibitors can showcase their organisation, engage directly with students and jobseekers, promote opportunities and programmes, conduct demonstrations and activities, and build connections with potential applicants, customers, and partners. 

What is included in the exhibitor stall?

Stalls in the Career Zone and Education Zone will be situated inside the tent area. These exhibitors will get a 10x10 ft to setup their designated booth spaces with their name board on top. 

The Skills Experience Zone and Market Zone will be located in an

open, non-air-conditioned area

. Each exhibitor will be provided with a standard

10×10 ft individual stall space.

All exhibitors will get 5 passes, 1 table, 2 chairs and power outlets and waste bin. More detailed information will be provided during the registration process on our website. 

Can I setup stalls at more than one zone?

No. Exhibitors can only setup their booth at only one of the 4 experience zones 

Do I have to pay to participate in the Expo?

Only exhibitors registering at the Market Zone will require an application fee of 

MVR 3,000 for the duration of the expo (Total for 3 days).

If I want to setup in the Market Zone, can I get more than the standard stall size space?

No, we are providing only 1 booth 6x8ft open space to setup per exhibitor.  

Can we sell our products/ services at the Skills Experience Zone?

Yes, you may sell locally produced or handmade items in this zone. We would require exhibitors to showcase the skills, techniques, or craftsmanship involved in creating the products being sold at the stall. Please note that a stall fee of MVR 3,000 will apply for exhibitors selling products in this category. Kindly ensure that this is clearly mentioned in your registration form.

When is the last day to register as the exhibitor for the Expo?

Registration closes November 12, 2026 at 14:00.

Who do I contact for more information?

For general enquiries, exhibitor registration, or partnership opportunities, please email [email protected] or contact the VARA Expo Team. 

You can also follow us on Instagram @varaexpo for the latest updates and announcements. 

Can Universities, Colleges, and Education Institutes from other countries join as Exhibitors in the Expo?

At present, the Education Zone is primarily intended for local education and training providers.  

Can I become a Sponsor or Partner of Vara Expo 2026?

Organisations can participate as partners or sponsors through a range of partnership packages. Interested organisations should contact the VARA Expo Team for further information on sponsorship opportunities. Email us at [email protected] 

Will security be provided for stalls overnight?

General venue security will be on site. Exhibitors are responsible for their own valuables, so please don’t leave them unattended. 

Can exhibitors run giveaways, competitions or promotions?

Yes. Exhibitors are encouraged to run engaging activities. Please inform the VARA Expo Team in advance about any activity that may draw large crowds or use sound equipment. 

What kind of items or products can I sell in the Market Zone?

The Market Zone is intended for the sale of

locally made products and items

, including food and beverages, crafts, clothing, books, jewelry and accessories, artwork, beauty and personal care products, souvenirs, and other locally produced goods. Note that the sale of imported goods is not permitted at the Expo.

Who can exhibit at the Expo?

Career Zone:

All verifiable businesses and organisations seeking to provide employment opportunities, engage with job seekers, and raise awareness of different career pathways are encouraged to exhibit in the Career Zone.



Education Zone:

This zone is dedicated to registered educational institutions and training providers. NGOs and CSOs that focus on educational outreach or public awareness initiatives are also welcome to exhibit.

Market Zone:

The Market Zone is dedicated to exhibitors offering locally made and authentic Maldivian food, crafts, artwork, and other handmade products. Exhibitors are not required to be registered businesses; however, they must provide verifiable evidence of previous activities or sales. Eligibility for this zone requires exhibitors to submit links, social media pages, portfolios, or other documentation demonstrating that they are actively engaged in their business or craft. 

Skills Experience Zone:

Open to creatives, artisans, and exhibitors who wish to showcase their craftsmanship and talents. Exhibitors may also sell locally produced or handmade products in this zone (stall fee applicable), provided they actively demonstrate or showcase the skills, techniques, processes, or craftsmanship involved in creating the products. This helps create an engaging and interactive experience for visitors while highlighting the value and expertise behind the products on display.