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Ink, Light, and the Future Unfolding
The printing and packaging industry stands at a defining moment, where technology, sustainability, and consumer expectations are converging faster than ever. In this issue of ME Printer, we explore the breakthroughs, challenges, and transformative trends shaping our sector—both in the Middle East and across the global landscape.
Our lead feature examines how AI-driven search optimization is rewriting the rules of visibility for print and packaging companies. With conversational search platforms such as ChatGPT and Gemini becoming mainstream, businesses in our region must learn to speak the language of AI—prioritizing expertise, authenticity, and educational content to stay discoverable in a crowded digital world.
In “Inks at a Crossroads,” we delve into the fast-evolving global ink market, where sustainability, food-contact safety, and digital workflows are becoming the new performance benchmarks. From water-based chemistries to extended-gamut printing and smart pressrooms, the industry’s direction is unmistakably toward cleaner, faster, and more intelligent production.
Healthcare packaging is also undergoing a renaissance. “Reinventing Pharma Packaging” highlights breakthroughs in recyclable blister materials, smart packs, serialization systems, and AI-enabled inspection technologies. As regulatory pressure intensifies, packaging is no longer a passive shell—it is becoming a strategic asset in patient safety, sustainability, and brand integrity.
Meanwhile, artificial intelligence is reshaping creative industries as well.
Our article on “The Future of Graphic Design in the Age of AI” explores how designers can evolve from purely visual creators into strategic storytellers who blend human insight with intelligent tools. Rather than replacing designers, AI is pushing the profession toward reinvention.
Brand protection remains a critical priority in an era of rising counterfeiting. “The Hidden Role of Printing Substrates in Brand Security” reveals how materials themselves—paper, board, glass, metal, and plastics—have become silent guardians equipped with covert features, digital identifiers, and material biometrics.
We also spotlight the upcoming Gulf Print & Pack 2026, which promises to be a pivotal event for the MENA region. With sustainability, smart packaging, automation, and digital transformation at its core, the show reflects the ambitions of a region rapidly positioning itself as a testbed for next-generation print technologies.
Alongside these in-depth features, this issue brings you the latest news, trends, and market updates from across the Middle East and beyond—tracking investments, innovations, policy shifts, and regional developments that continue to influence the global print and packaging landscape.
As always, our mission is to deliver insight, clarity, and direction at a time when our industry is evolving at unprecedented speed. Whether you are a printer, converter, designer, supplier, or brand owner, we hope the perspectives in this issue help guide your next decisions and inspire your next innovations.
ME Printer FZE LLC
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Editor- Arabic Rana Ahmed Yehia E-mail: arabic@meprinter.com
Sign & Graphic Imaging Middle East brings the region’s signage and visual communication leaders together, showcasing the latest technologies that help brands enhance visibility, boost efficiency, and stay competitive in a fast-evolving market.
The competition is part of an international series that combines top talent in vehicle wrapping and creative vinyl applications
3rd Wrap Masters Middle East to See HighOctane Action
The 3rd edition of World Wrap Masters Middle East competition returns to Dubai, in a gripping contest to find the region’s wrap master.
The highly anticipated, lively event is set to return to FESPA Middle East 2026 from 13-15 January 2026 at Dubai Exhibition Centre.
The competition is part of an international series that combines top talent in vehicle wrapping and creative vinyl applications. Running alongside FESPA’s renowned global print exhibitions, World Wrap
Masters adds a unique layer of skill and excitement to the show’s offering. The competition is of special significance to the MENA region, recognised as one of the fastest growing markets for vehicle wrapping, driven by the surging demand for customisation and paint protection films (PPF).
Over three days, regional competitors will go head-to-head in a thrilling knockout contest. Each round will test essential skills such as knife work, application techniques,
speed under pressure, and the ability to innovate with creative designs. A host of professionals will face intense rounds designed to test their wrapping skills across vinyl and film applications on a variety of objects including helmets, mannequins, shoes, tables and chairs, tea cups, toy cars, water bottles, and more. Each round will test the participants’ flawless presentations, accuracy and control when trimming materials, wraps without gaps or overstretching, and speed.
The winner will get to go to Barcelona, Spain, to compete against winners from across the world in the World Wrap Masters Grand Final, a feature of the larger FESPA Global Print Expo 2026, which runs from 19-22 May 2026.
Visitors will also be able to learn more about the tips and tricks of vehicle wrapping during a range of wrap demonstrations delivered by the World Wrap Masters judges. The panel of judges comprising worldrenowned wrap instructors including Kiss ‘Luigi’ Lajos, Justin Pate, Ole Solskin, Ivan Tenchev, and Jeremy Conner, will share their experience and knowledge through training workshops and demonstrations.
Register for free entry at www. fespamiddleeast.com Use promo code FMEK603
Agro Pack, Iraq Plast 2025 Pave Way for Industry Growt
The concurrent staging of the 8th Agro Pack & Food Iraq and the 6th Iraq Plast events has successfully concluded, setting new records as the largest-ever packaging, agrofood, and plastics exhibition held in Iraq. Hosted at Erbil International Fairground from 24-27 November 2025, the dual events, organised by Fuar and fairtrade, drew over 10,000 professionals from across the region and featured more than 300 exhibitors from 18 countries.
The decision to utilise both halls at the venue provided attendees with a comprehensive and thematically structured experience. Hall 1 was dedicated to Food Iraq and Agro Iraq, showcasing a diverse array of finished food and beverage (F&B) products, agriculture, crop production, livestock breeding, and poultry solutions. Hall 2, meanwhile, focused on Agro Pack Iraq and Plast Iraq, featuring F&B technology, materials and ingredients, as well as plastic raw materials and machinery for plastics processing, printing, and packaging. The event underscored Iraq’s rapid
industrial growth, reinforced by new data from the German Engineering Federation (VDMA) and EUROMAP.
aimed at bolstering local production. National pavilions from Armenia, China, India, Iran, Sri Lanka, and Türkiye
The country has emerged as the third-largest Arab importer of F&B processing and packaging technology in the Middle East, a result of significant investment and the government’s ‘Made in Iraq’ initiative
further solidified the event’s role as a vital platform for industry growth, investment, and international collaboration within Iraq’s burgeoning agrofood, packaging, and plastics sectors.
Riyadh to Host First PRS ME&A Conference in 2026
Saudi Arabia will host the inaugural Plastics Recycling Show Middle East & Africa (PRS ME&A) Conference KSA at Riyadh Marriott Hotel on 21 January 2026. The event, preceded by a networking dinner on 20 January, will unite industry leaders, policymakers, innovators, and sustainability experts to drive the future of plastics recycling in the region and beyond.
The PRS ME&A Conference KSA will cover the latest trends and developments in the sector, as well as reflect on the most recent legislation, challenges, and opportunities. The convention brings together the entire cross-section of the value chain, aiming to promote collaboration and to accelerate the transition towards sustainable and truly circular plastics recycling industry.
Key topics include the current landscape, opportunities, and actions shaping the plastics sector; the state of collection and sorting
of plastics in the Kingdom; PET recycling; emerging trends and challenges in sustainable packaging; and aligning action with strategy to achieve plastics circularity in the Middle East.
Saudi Arabia’s growing commitment to environmental sustainability provides the perfect backdrop for this critical event – vouched by industry experts to be a dynamic and informative conference experience.
A VIP Visit to Advance Vision 2030 Goals
Saudi Xerox Delegation Tours
Xerox UK Innovation Center
In its latest endeavor to foster digital printing in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and strengthen its role as a major digital player within Vision 2030, Saudi Xerox hosted a highlevel government delegation to the Xerox Innovation Center in the UK.
The delegation included decision
the Kingdom’s objectives on the road to Vision 2030.
After this insightful introduction, top experts talked about Artificial Intelligence and the End-to-End Xerox Ecosystem, built around productivity, workflow automation, service delivery, data security, and sustainability. Case studies based on international government deployments provided practical in-
Technology is crucial, and Xerox positions itself in Saudi Arabia as a high-tech company with strong client relationships
makers from leading Government and Semi-government institutions. This visit marked an important step forward in advancing the country’s Vision 2030, showcasing how global innovation can directly support the Kingdom’s national priorities.
The Saudi delegation witnessed firsthand exposure to the company’s global state-of-the-art technologies. The visit’s primary objective was to reinforce KSA’s transformative goals while giving delegates the opportunity to experience advanced digital technology in action. It clearly reflected the Kingdom’s commitment to adopting global innovation in line with its modernization agenda.
It’s Show Time
The delegation was welcomed by Steven Bandrowczak, chief executive officer at Xerox, followed by Hubert Soviche, president of Global Production Group at Xerox. Soviche laid out the company’s strategy and end-to-end production ecosystem, and explained how it could benefit
ment—essential tools for success in today’s competitive corporate landscape.
in addition, a teaser of the upcoming Xerox® IJP900 Inkjet Press capabilities were presented through detailed sessions and sample outputs, giving delegates a full appreciation of its potential.
Steven Bandrowczak, CEO of Xerox, added:
“Saudi Arabia is rapidly advancing toward its Vision 2030 goals, and Xerox is proud to be part of that journey. By combining our legacy of innovation with Saudi Xerox’s local expertise, we’re helping institutions unlock new levels of efficiency, creativity, and sustainability. As the Middle East looks toward greater digital transformation and diversification, we plan to introduce localized solutions that directly support these objectives and the region’s broader growth initiatives.”
sights, while a networking lunch, an open Q&A session, and a roadmap discussion concluded the program.
Delegates were introduced to the company’s latest innovations through a series of live demonstrations and knowledge-sharing sessions that were both engaging and insightful.
The highlight of the showcase was the Xerox Iridesse® Production Press, the world’s first six-color digital press. Iridesse embodies the digital revolution in full swing, offering capabilities far beyond the reach of traditional offset. Designed to meet the growing demand for high-value applications, it can easily produce personalized, variable-data, and TransPromo documents. With its award-winning Color FLX Technology, Iridesse layers CMYK with up to two Specialty Dry Inks in a single productive pass, maintaining perfect color-to-color registration.
Other highlights included Workflow Automation, Managed Print Services, and Cloud Print Manage-
The event’s center of gravity was Saudi Vision 2030. Meanwhile, what Xerox offers—including Workflow Automation and Managed Print Services, which embodies the Kingdom’s goal of building a thriving digital economy by improving efficiency and optimizing resources. To take full advantage of Xerox’s workflow, the company offers powerful engines such as the Iridesse Production Press, with its groundbreaking color and personalization capabilities. Meanwhile, Xerox’s strong emphasis on data security and sustainability reinforces the Ambitious Nation agenda, ensuring that modernization progresses responsibly and transparently.
Mehmet Sezer, General Manager of Saudi Xerox, summed it up perfectly:
“Technology is crucial, and Xerox positions itself in Saudi Arabia as a high-tech company with strong client relationships. This visit allowed us to demonstrate how our innovations translate into real value for key sectors aligned with Vision 2030. With over 3,000 active client contracts and a 98 percent retention rate, our strategy is clear—to remain a trusted partner, deliver high-quality services, and continu-
ally expand our portfolio in ways that support the Kingdom’s digital ambitions.”
This visit marked more than a showcase—it was a milestone of partner-
in Saudi Arabia. The atmosphere throughout the day reflected genuine enthusiasm for collaboration and a shared belief in technology’s role as a national enabler.
ship and shared vision. It reaffirmed the Kingdom’s determination to harness innovation as a driver of national transformation and underscored Xerox’s role as a trusted ally in that mission. As Saudi Arabia moves forward on its Vision 2030 path, Xerox and Saudi Xerox stand side by side—turning collaboration into lasting impact and innovation into sustainable growth.
Epilogue
Saudi Xerox’s name is synonymous with innovation, building on a legacy of pioneering technologies such as the personal computer, the mouse, and the graphical user interface. Xerox’s enviable legacy and its constant quest for technological innovation form an ideal blend for a forward-thinking nation like Saudi Arabia and a forward-looking company like Saudi Xerox.
Beyond technology, the visit fostered a meaningful dialogue on the future of digital transformation
“It is an exciting momentum of exchanges on strategic topics shaping the future—from AI and workflow automation to data security and sustainability. Xerox’s end-to-end ecosystem is designed to boost productivity and deliver measurable ROI to our valuable and longstanding government and enterprise clients alike” added Ahmed Abualola, head of Government Sales at Saudi Xerox
The visit reaffirmed that innovation and partnership remain the cornerstones of Saudi Xerox’s ongoing contribution to Vision 2030 by continuing to drive innovation and shape the future of digital transformation in the Kingdom.
Xerox’s end-to-end ecosystem is designed to boost productivity and deliver measurable ROI to our valuable and longstanding government and enterprise clients alike
BOBST, in collaboration with partners KURZ, Miraclon, and Rossini, organised a roadshow in Abidjan, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), in early October, dedicated to innovations and trends in the packaging industry. The event brought together many Ivorian and West African professionals who came to exchange
insights on the latest technological advances and sustainable solutions offered by BOBST and its partners. The day opened with a presentation by Eric Pavone, BOBST Business Director AFRLAS Region, who outlined the BOBST Group’s vision for the future of packaging, aligning with a more connected, sustainable,
and customer-centric industry, built on the four pillars of Digitisation, Automation, Connectivity, and Sustainability.
The programme explored a wide range of strategic and technical topics related to innovative solutions for printing, finishing, and sustainable packaging. Participants had the opportunity to discover BOBST’s cutting-edge technologies in flexographic and gravure printing, as well as in label manufacturing.
The roadshow also highlighted current trends in embellishment, sustainability, and modern flexography, emphasising the latest advances in innovation and environmental protection.
Discussions further addressed coating and vacuum metallisation solutions, meeting the growing demand for high-barrier and ecofriendly packaging.
The highly engaged audience contributed to making the event a moment of interactive and inspiring exchanges, reflecting both the dynamism of the Ivorian market and its increasing interest in nextgeneration packaging technologies.
FESPA Middle East Launches FLEX 2025 Roadshow
Our goal is to foster a spirit of collaboration that strengthens businesses and advances the sector as a whole
Connects print and signage leaders in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Egypt; will foster collaboration to strengthen business and advance the sector; speaker line-up to feature prominent industry voices; key findings from the latest FESPA Print Census will offer in-depth snapshot of global and regional industry trends, challenges, and growth opportunities
FESPA Leadership Exchange (FLEX) returns to the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, uniting industry leaders in Saudi Arabia, Jordan, and Egypt for a week of collaboration, innovation, and insight. Running from 24 to 27 November, FLEX 2025 will host events in Riyadh, Jeddah, Amman, and Cairo, offering a unique opportunity for business leaders to connect, exchange knowledge, and explore the trends
shaping the future of print. Following its successful debut in 2023 and its ongoing integration into the FESPA Middle East conference programme, FLEX has evolved into a cornerstone of FESPA’s regional engagement strategy. The series is designed to inspire collaboration, strengthen leadership networks, and deliver actionable insight on both global and regional market transformations.
Bazil Cassim, Regional Manager – FESPA Middle East, talks about empowering the print community through knowledge exchange: “FESPA Middle East is committed to supporting our members and the wider print and signage community. Through initiatives like FLEX, we reinvest directly into the industry by creating opportunities for leaders to connect, share experiences,
and gain fresh insights. Our goal is to foster a spirit of collaboration that strengthens businesses and advances the sector as a whole.” Free to attend, FLEX 2025 welcomes senior decision makers and C-suite executives from across the print, signage, and visual communications sectors. Each session follows an open-forum format, encouraging dialogue and idea-sharing that will help shape future FESPA content and event programming.
Insightful Sessions with Expert Perspectives
Each event will open with a welcome from FESPA CEO Neil Felton, who will present key findings from the latest FESPA Print Census – offering an in-depth snapshot of global and regional industry trends, challenges, and growth opportunities.
The speaker line-up features prominent industry voices, including Christian Duyckaerts, Founder and Managing Director of Rebranding collective and FESPA Board Member, who will explore brand experience and how print professionals can deliver creative, profitable solutions; and Gruppo Masserdotti Managing Director and FESPA Board Member Alberto Masserdotti, discussing the future of retail and whether it still belongs in display.
Other sessions will have Amit Radia, Founder and CEO of Atlas Group – Print & Beyond, sharing insights on how the Middle East can evolve into a global print hub with its own distinctive identity in Saudi Arabia, and Debbie McKeegan, CEO of TEXINTEL and FESPA Textile Ambassador, addressing the future of textile printing and its transformative potential in Jordan and Egypt.
George Simonian, Dean of Applied Arts Faculty, Badr University in Cairo (BUC), will have a presentation on Egypt’s evolving market, elaborating on data, the trends, and disruptions. “The FESPA Leadership Exchange (FLEX) brings FESPA’s global expertise to the Middle East – empowering industry growth, fostering regional connections, and driving innovations across print, signage, and visual communications.
The speaker line-up features prominent industry voices, who will explore brand experience and how print professionals can deliver creative, profitable solutions
We’re thrilled to welcome FESPA back and look forward to FLEX with great optimism,” says Simonian.
Looking Ahead to FESPA Middle East 2026
The third edition of FESPA Middle East will return to Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC) from13-15 January 2026, building on the success of previous editions.
The event is expected to host 3,000 visitors and 125 exhibitors, representing an 11% and 25% increase
respectively over 2025. Visitors can explore the latest technologies in digital printing, textile, signage, and screen printing, alongside an expanded programme featuring FLEX, Sustainability Spotlight, the AI Education Lab, World Wrap Masters, and Wrap Demos.
Registration for FESPA Middle East 2026 is now open. Visitors can secure a free entry using promo code FMEM603 at www.fespamiddleeast.com
Paperworld China 2025: Key Market Trends Grab Focus
Paperworld China returned to Shanghai World Expo Exhibition & Convention Center from 21-23 November 2025, uniting nearly 300 domestic and international brands across the stationery, art, and cre-
culture, and commerce converged.”
The trade show featured a robust lineup of Chinese exhibitors such as Chinjoo, CJP, Deli, Guangbo, M&G, Magi-wap, Superior, and VIKKO, alongside international brands
ative lifestyle sectors.
With a strong mix of innovation and returning favourites, the fair sparked fresh collaborations and strengthened the connection between B2B and B2C segments
The 2025 edition focused on key market dynamics by introducing a dedicated area for fine art materials, highlighting the growing power of licensed intellectual property (IP), and featuring popular consumerfacing showcases. The fair catered to both industry professionals and individual enthusiasts, connecting business with creativity across the stationery and lifestyle sectors.
A central theme of Paperworld China 2025 was the transformative role of IP collaboration, which is elevating stationery into collectible cultural merchandise. Licensed designs are gaining significant traction in school supplies, journals, and collectibles, merging functionality with storytelling to resonate powerfully with younger audiences.
Judy Cheung, Deputy General Manager, Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, says that Paperworld China captured the dynamic energy of today’s creative product markets, spotlighting growing trends to a broader audience.
“By bringing together iconic global brands and China’s leading players, as well as highlighting the rapidly rising movement towards IP collaboration, the fair succeeded in creating a comprehensive stage where ideas,
including Bonito, Faber-Castell, KING JIM, Maped, Pilot, Sakura, Schneider, Tombow, Uni, Zebra, and Zipit, reinforcing the show’s importance to the stationery and creative lifestyle industries, and Shanghai’s position as a key central hub for both sectors.
Paperworld China 2025 was a revelation of IP’s real-world value for the stationery and creative lifestyle industries, through collaborations with beloved brands and pop culture characters such as My Little Pony, Sanrio, and Time Raiders.
The Art Top pavilion, which made its debut as a premier destination
for fine art materials, hosted top brands such as Canson, Mont Marte, MUNGYO, Pebeo, rOtring, Royal Talens, Staedtler, and Van Gogh. The growing interest in artistic expression and quality craftsmanship was very much evident, with the area bringing together premium papers, colours, and tools for painting and sketching that offered both inspirational and practical resources for professional artists, students, and creative enthusiasts.
The return of Twenty Pro also saw direct engagement between overseas exhibitors and local buyers, with dialogues opening up new business opportunities.
Back by popular demand, Zakka Shop and The Mart once again attracted design-savvy consumers and retail buyers with an array of creative lifestyle products – from masking tapes and stickers to journals, scrapbooking supplies, stamps, and more. Both platforms offered a chance to discover niche items of appeal to collectors and curators.
“With a strong mix of innovation and returning favourites, the fair sparked fresh collaborations and strengthened the connection between B2B and B2C segments,” adds Cheung.
Paperworld China is an annual event organised by China Stationery and Sporting Goods Association (CSSGA), Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co. Ltd., and Zhejiang Growin International Exhibition & Convention Co. Ltd. It is the only trade fair in the domestic stationery industry that receives official support from CSSGA.
HP Bolsters Saudi Arabia’s Tech Ambitions with New Facilities
In a move to bolster Saudi Arabia’s position as a regional technology hub, tech giant HP has launched a manufacturing facility in Riyadh and has confirmed its new Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Research & Development (R&D) Center of Excellence (CoE) in Dhahran.
The inauguration, which follows an announcement at the LEAP 2025 conference, is a key component of HP’s strategic investment in the Kingdom, aligning with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Dhahran center is designed to accelerate AI innovation and deliver solutions tailored for customers across multiple sectors, including energy, healthcare, logistics, and smart cities.
Key Initiatives & Goals
The CoE will focus on AI-driven solutions to enhance business operations through data analysis, robotic process automation, and advanced decision-making capabilities.
HP is committed to investing in the local workforce through educational partnerships with Saudi institutions. The CoE will provide training programmes, workshops, and hands-on projects to develop local talent and nurture the next generation of AI experts.
Dual Investment in KSA
The opening of the Dhahran AI center coincides with HP’s commencement of operations at a new
manufacturing facility in Riyadh.
The factory, which began production with the HP EliteDesk AI PC, is a ‘Made in Saudi’ initiative that aims to improve product availability and customise experiences for consumers in the region.
Vision 2030 Alignment
The investment in both a manufacturing plant and an R&D center
underscores HP’s commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, a blueprint for economic diversification and technological advancement. “At HP, we are proud to partner, to enable the future of work, by creating high quality jobs for Saudi citizens and contribute meaningfully to the national economy,” says Fadle Saad, Managing Director, HP KSA.
The Dhahran center is designed to accelerate AI innovation and deliver solutions tailored for customers across multiple sectors, including energy, healthcare, logistics, and smart cities
The seminar brought together innovators and decision makers to explore the next era of intelligent, sustainable, and human centred packaging solutions
BOBST, Partners Co-Host Seminar on Future of Packaging
Global packaging technology leader BOBST, in collaboration with Esko and NDIGITEC, successfully hosted the 3rd edition of their mega seminar in Dubai, following previous events in Saudi Arabia and Kenya. The seminar, held under the theme ‘The Future of Packaging Empowered by Regional Visions’, brought together innovators and decisionmakers to explore the next era of intelligent, sustainable, and human-
centred packaging solutions.
Dennis Hughill, Regional Sales Director at BOBST, presented cuttingedge solutions that blend design excellence, technical innovation, and environmental responsibility. Robert Bruce, Product Manager Flexo at Esko, unveiled ‘The Future of Flexo’, showcasing how AI, IoT, and on-demand production are redefining smart, connected packaging.
NDIGITEC CEO Vatche Kavlakian shared insights on how his company merges creativity, AI, and strategic thinking to lead the future of packaging in the region and beyond. Guests were welcomed with a red carpet ceremony, which was followed by a networking cocktail and an enchanting gala dinner featuring stunning performances – celebrating collaboration, innovation, and shared vision.
The evening was brought to life by Bella Papikyan, Dubai’s first professional qanun player, followed by acclaimed pianist and singer Raisa Knusel’s soulful vocals and Tina’s stunning violin performance. The gala dinner was further elevated by an inspiring keynote by Ajit Nawalkha, global entrepreneur and former CEO of Mindvalley, who shared his vision of conscious leadership and meaningful growth. The seminar successfully fostered a meeting of minds, where technology meets creativity and where strategic partnerships are poised to shape the industry’s future.
The Critical Role of B2B Media in a Changing Industry
The closure of Duomedia after 25 years is more than the end of a respected communications agency—it is a reflection of the growing challenges facing B2B communication across the print, packaging, and industrial sectors. In
its farewell message, the company pointed to shrinking budgets, rising expectations, and the increasing difficulty of delivering international services while maintaining strong local presence. These pressures are not unique to one agency; they represent the reality confronting the entire B2B media ecosystem.
B2B communication has always relied on deep industry knowledge, credibility, and the ability to translate complex technologies into clear, meaningful stories. But as economic uncertainties grow and communication channels multiply, these tasks have become more demanding than ever. Companies expect real-time content and global visibility, yet often with fewer resources. Meanwhile, the need for local insight, multilingual communication, and on-the-ground understanding continues to rise. In this environment, the role of dedi-
cated industry media becomes even more essential. Publications like ME Printer, with their long-standing commitment to the region, help ensure that knowledge continues to flow within the industry. They connect manufacturers, suppliers, converters, and brand owners. They give visibility to innovation. They maintain the professional standards and editorial integrity that generic digital platforms cannot replace.
Duomedia’s closure is a reminder that B2B communication is valuable but vulnerable. If specialized media and communication partners disappear, the industry risks losing one of its most important assets: a reliable channel for information, dialogue, and growth. Now more than ever, the print and packaging community must support the platforms that keep it informed, connected, and moving forward.
CTIJ: The Missing Link in Industrial Coding and Marking
In modern manufacturing and packaging, coding and marking technologies form the backbone of traceability, regulatory compliance, and product identity. From food and beverage to pharmaceuticals and automotive components, every product needs a clear, durable code. Over the decades, several technologies have been developed to meet these demands—each excelling in certain areas yet falling short in others.
Evolving Beyond Conventional Inkjet
Among the contactless printing families, inkjet technologies dominate due to their flexibility and nonintrusive nature. Continuous Inkjet (CIJ) and Thermal Inkjet (TIJ) have long been the two main pillars of this sector. CIJ is favored for its speed and long throw distance, making it ideal for high-throughput lines. However, it comes with high solvent usage, frequent maintenance, and a notable environmental footprint.
TIJ, by contrast, offers high-resolution prints and minimal maintenance, yet its disposable cartridges and limited ink capacity make it impractical for heavy-duty industrial environments. The need for frequent cartridge changes interrupts production and adds to waste—both operational and ecological.
Enter
Continuous Thermal Inkjet (CTIJ)
The arrival of Continuous Thermal Inkjet (CTIJ) bridges the divide between these two worlds. This new technology extends the TIJ concept into a true industrial platform by introducing a continuous ink delivery
system. Rather than relying on selfcontained cartridges, CTIJ draws ink from an external tank that feeds the printhead through a precisioncontrolled circuit of pumps, pressure sensors, and flow regulators. The result? Uninterrupted, highresolution coding with consistent print quality, stable performance, and minimal operator intervention. It combines TIJ’s crisp output with CIJ’s endurance—offering the best of both without the drawbacks of either.
Sustainability and Smart Production
The shift toward digital traceability and sustainability—amplified by initiatives like GS1’s Sunrise 2027—demands cleaner, more efficient, and smarter printing systems. Manufacturers now seek technologies that minimize waste, reduce VOC emissions, and integrate seamlessly with Industry 4.0 production lines. CTIJ answers this call by eliminating solvent recirculation systems and disposable cartridges. Its closed-loop design ensures consistent ink viscosity and droplet precision, extending printhead life while cutting consumable costs. This makes it particularly attractive for companies committed to greener operations without compromising on speed or quality.
How It Works
At its core, CTIJ uses a thermal printhead to eject precise droplets, just like TIJ. What differentiates it is the continuous flow mechanism—a smart fluid system that automatically balances ink pressure and temperature in real time. Whether on long shifts or in varying environmental
conditions, the printhead maintains optimal performance and delivers sharp, stable codes throughout extended production runs.
A Category of Its Own
The journey from CIJ to TIJ and now to CTIJ reflects the industry’s continuous pursuit of a balance between reliability, quality, and sustainability. For the first time, a technology manages to reconcile these priorities without trade-offs. By merging thermal inkjet precision with continuous industrial endurance, CTIJ creates a new category in the marking and coding hierarchy. It’s not merely an upgrade—it’s an evolution tailored for smart factories and highdemand production environments.
Ready for the Future
As manufacturing transitions toward greater automation and sustainability, Continuous Thermal Inkjet stands out as a forward-looking solution. It embodies the shift toward cleaner, smarter, and more connected operations—ensuring that every mark counts in the era of intelligent production.
To learn more, visit: MapleJet HXUltro Continuous Thermal Inkjet Printer
As manufacturing transitions toward greater automation and sustainability, Continuous Thermal Inkjet stands out as a forward-looking solution
Love Paper Week Back in 2026 to Champion Paper
Following the success earlier this year, Love Paper Week will be back in 2026, running from 2–6 February, to highlight the unique role of paper in our everyday lives and its strong environmental credentials.
Paper continues to be one of the most suitable and effective forms of communication
Championing Paper Since Year One
Love Paper, a global campaign launched in 2012 to promote the sustainability and attractiveness of print, paper, and paper packaging, is once again uniting the industry to collectively champion paper to businesses, consumers, and communities.
In its first year, Love Paper Week introduced simple yet effective tools for organisations across the
print, paper, and packaging sectors to tell the story of paper’s sustainability. Growing industry support this second year will see expanded activity and broader participation, helping to reinforce why paper remains such a vital, sustainable, and creative medium in today’s digital world and the sustainable packaging solution.
“Paper continues to be one of the most suitable and effective forms of communication. It is renewable, recyclable, and biodegradable, yet many misconceptions remain,” says Josh Birch, Campaign Manager at Two Sides UK. “Love Paper Week is about giving the industry a collec-
tive voice to challenge myths, share facts, and celebrate the benefits of paper with both businesses and consumers.”
Paper’s Positive Story
Research shows that despite progress, many consumers still underestimate paper’s environmental impact. Many still believe that paper recycling rates are low, yet Europe recycles an impressive 75% of paper, the highest recycling rate of any material. Furthermore, European forests that provide the raw material for paper, are growing in size and are managed under strict sustainability standards. By highlighting these facts, Love Paper Week aims to cut through misconceptions and encourage informed choices.
Getting Involved
To support the campaign, Love Paper is once again providing free, ready-to-use resources for organisations to share during the week, including social media posts, graphics, and videos; e-mail footers and digital assets; virtual meeting backgrounds; and official Love Paper Week branding.
“From printers, publishers, and direct mail specialists to packaging manufacturers, paper manufacturers, and distributors, Love Paper Week is an opportunity for everyone in the sector to get involved and showcase the positive story of paper,” adds Birch.
Paper & Tissue Show 2026 Triples Scope with New Events
Flagship show will run concurrently with two new specialised events encompassing the entire value chain; 300+ exhibitors to showcase latest innovations; unmatched opportunities for discovery and collaboration for 16,000+ visitors; dedicated country pavilions amplify international presence
The global pulp, paper, and allied industries are set to converge at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, for a landmark event featuring a strate-
gic trio of co-located exhibitions. From 31 March to 2 April 2026, the flagship Paper & Tissue Show will run concurrently with two new specialised events: Hygiene & Nonwoven Show and Packaging & Recycle Show, attracting a broader spectrum of industry professionals from around the globe. Organised by Al Furat Group, the exhibitions offer an unparalleled platform encompassing the entire value chain, set to redefine industrial excellence across the MENA region.
Expanded Scope and Product Categories
The triple events will significantly broaden the product categories to encompass the full spectrum of the industry – from raw pulp and finished goods to advanced machinery and sustainable packaging solutions.
More than 300 exhibitors will showcase their latest innovations across three distinct exhibition platforms. The Paper & Tissue Show will feature raw paper, pulp, tissue
products, corrugated cardboard, specialty papers, paper chemicals, and converting machinery. The Hygiene & Nonwoven Show will cover personal care, medical, and home care nonwovens, as well as associated production technologies. Lastly, the Packaging & Recycle Show will focus on sustainable packaging materials, recycling technologies, packaging machinery, smart packaging solutions, and waste management.
This comprehensive approach ensures that every segment of these vital industries is represented, offering unmatched opportunities for discovery and collaboration to over 16,000 expected visitors.
International Presence Amplified
The upcoming exhibitions are poised to significantly enhance their global appeal and facilitate focused B2B interactions by introducing dedicated country pavilions. Key manufacturing and trading nations, including China, Germany, India, Italy, and Turkey, will be prominently featured. These pavilions will function as specialised platforms, enabling their respective national industries to showcase their unique strengths, fostering international trade and attracting direct investment. The pavilions will serve as concentrated hubs for innovation and commerce, allowing visitors to efficiently explore the diverse offerings from these key manufacturing powerhouses.
The Packaging & Recycle Show has announced its strategic partnership with World Packaging Organisation (WPO). As a globally recognised authority with an extensive network spanning 84 associations in 63 countries, this collaboration is set to significantly enhance the exhibition’s international recognition and bring unparalleled insights and expertise to the packaging industry. Furthermore, the Paper & Tissue Show team recently undertook a strategic tour across Tunisia, Morocco, and Algeria, thereby strengthening their presence in North Africa. Meetings were held with key institutions like PACKTEC, CEPEX,
Strategic Partnerships and Global Reach
The organiser’s commitment to fostering global connections is reinforced through key partnerships.
AMDIE, CCISCS, and others focusing on packaging, industrial cooperation, and promotional support. This tour successfully opened doors for the participation of national
pavilions, facilitated hosted buyers programmes, and established new media collaborations ahead of the 2026 event in Abu Dhabi.
Exclusive Opportunities for Engagement
To maximise networking and business generation, the Hosted Buyers Programme will host over 400 meticulously selected top-tier decision-makers, hand-picked from influential companies. These buyers will benefit from pre-scheduled, one-on-one meetings designed to ensure highly productive engagements and tangible business outcomes for exhibitors.
Mixing business with pleasure, an exclusive gala dinner will provide a sophisticated setting for high-level networking, fostering deeper relationships and celebrating industry achievements amidst a vibrant atmosphere.
Delegates will also have the opportunity to experience the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi through an exhilarating safari tour. This unique social event offers a chance for informal networking while enjoying the captivating desert landscapes.
For latest updates, log on to www.paperoneshow.net
To maximise networking and business generation, the Hosted Buyers Programme will host over 400 meticulously selected top-tier decision-makers, handpicked from influential companies
Paperworld Middle East 2025 Sets New Industry Benchmark
Paperworld Middle East 2025 wrapped up in true industry-shaping style at Dubai World Trade Centre.
The region’s largest trade platform for paper, stationery, office supplies, and creative materials came to a close following three days of high-value networking and knowledge exchange. Every corner of the show floor witnessed intense activity – from crowdstopping headline launches and live demos to real talk on what’s next in paper, stationery, and office supplies.
Over 35 influential speakers delivered thought-provoking sessions on topics including AI, sustainability, e-commerce, and digital transformation. Teresa Heitor Goncalves, Portfolio Director – Consumer Goods, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, says, “The insights shared during discussions show how much the sector is evolving. It’s clear that regional companies are focused on growth, collaboration, and long-term resilience. Bringing the industry together at Paperworld Middle East provides an important platform for these shared priorities to take shape and move forward.”
Back by popular demand, the Artistry Workshop series featured a wider programme with new creative participants. In addition to long-term collaborators Funun Arts Group, the four additional brands that joined the 2025 lineup included Al Waraq, FoscART, skilldeer, and SkriblBox. Each workshop offered art enthusiasts and visitors the opportunity to explore the artistry of paper and design in new and meaningful ways.
sions and explore potential business opportunities for their ongoing and forthcoming projects.
Also making its debut was The Spotlight, a joint showcase from Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East, which brought together some of the cleverest ideas, boldest designs, and products that stole the show – from smart glasses with immersive music and AI-driven language translation to a pencil that never ends!
This year, significant emphasis was placed on innovation, sustainability, and market trends, providing a robust platform for business development
Along with Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 2025, the dual exhibitions reinforced their status as the region’s most influential trade platforms for the stationery, paper, office supplies, gifting, and lifestyle sectors.
Held from 11-13 November 2025, the events facilitated global sourcing and networking, drawing a diverse international audience to the UAE. The combined events showcased their broad international appeal with impressive figures: over 650 exhibitors from 38 countries, more than 12,900 visitors from 132 countries.
This year, significant emphasis was placed on innovation, sustainability, and market trends, providing a robust platform for business development. A major priority across both shows was sustainability, which was highlighted by the return of Project Sustainability. This feature showcased a variety of eco-conscious products, ranging from recycled stationery to energyefficient office supplies.
The Hub Forum hosted meaningful conversations and delivered actionable insights on trends that are redefining the industry’s future.
Premium Writing Instruments, the new product segment introduced at Paperworld Middle East, highlighted the craftsmanship and heritage of leading global brands that included a selection of writing tools and stationery from across the world.
Key decision makers and senior buyers were offered access to Premium Club, an exclusive programme designed to streamline the purchasing process and foster direct connections with exhibitors. The platform offered hundreds of direct purchasing decision makers and influencers an opportunity to engage in discus-
The co-located Gifts & Lifestyle show effectively complemented the stationery and office supplies displayed at Paperworld with an expansive range of products across home décor and personal accents, corporate gifting and lifestyle, and infant and child care. Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East generated significant momentum, resulting in record-breaking attendance and numerous business deals. Participants connected with key buyers gained valuable insights into the latest industry trends, cementing the co-located exhibitions as crucial sourcing platforms in the Middle East.
“As the only platform of its kind, Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 2025 brought together the global paper, stationery, gifting, and lifestyle industries under one roof, offering unrivalled opportunities to explore the latest trends, meet international suppliers, and be inspired by creative expression and innovation,” adds Goncalves.
The next edition of Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East will take place from 26-28 October 2026 at the same venue.
PRINTALK 2025 Marks Defining Moment for UAE Print Industry
The UAE’s printing community marked a historic milestone with the grand success of PRINTALK 2025, hosted by IGSA UAE – the UAE Alumni of Institute of Printing Technology & Government Polytechnic Shoranur, Kerala, India – at the posh Dusit Thani Dubai.
The seminar brought together global experts, regional professionals, and industry leaders for a full day of insight, dialogue, and collaboration dedicated to advancing colour management, process standardisation, and print excellence.
Vinod Kandanath, General Convenor of PRINTALK 2025, delivered the welcome address, emphasising the importance of continuous learning and technical innovation. The opening speech was followed by felicitations from Vikrant Chhabra, Vinay Krishnan, Sinoj George, Anand T N, and Lakshmanan Ganapathy – all of whom commended IGSA UAE for fostering an environment of professional growth and industry unity.
The knowledge sessions featured a stellar lineup of international experts who discussed key aspects of printing. Dr. Andreas Kraushaar (Head of Prepress, Fogra, Germany) threw light on emerging colour standards and visual reliability, Kulakkada Pradeep (CEO, Future Schoolz) addressed press-related challenges and print efficiency, while Jose Thomas (Principal Consultant, Future Schoolz) explored pre-press challenges and accurate colour reproduction. Their sessions provided invaluable insights that resonated deeply with attendees across every segment of the printing sector.
Engaging Sessions, Expert Moderation, and Industry Collaboration
The event was defined by its interactive format and high level of audience participation. Moderators Sabarish Ramanunni, Bhaskar, Hareesh, Dipu M Ravi, and Suresh played a vital role in seamlessly connecting speakers and delegates, ensuring the discussions remained both informative and practical. The audience engagement throughout the seminar highlighted the value of PRINTALK as
a true knowledge-exchange platform – one that transforms complex technical topics into real-world learning.
Ancil Antony, Secretary of IGSA UAE, concluded the day with a vote of thanks, expressing gratitude to all speakers, participants, and sponsors for their contribution to the event’s remarkable success.
Takeaways, Legacy, and the Road Ahead
Delegates left the seminar with powerful insights, new professional connections, and practical takeaways on topics ranging
from colour standardisation and proofing alignment to improving press efficiency and sustainability. The event reinforced PRINTALK’s purpose – to serve as a continued learning and knowledge-sharing initiative for professionals across the UAE and beyond. Building on this momentum, IGSA UAE announced plans to make PRINTALK an annual event.
With over 500 members and an 18-year legacy, IGSA UAE continues to serve as the backbone of the printing community – connecting professionals, nurturing talent, and driving the industry’s growth.
The event reinforced PRINTALK’s purpose – to serve as a continued learning and knowledgesharing initiative for professionals across the UAE and beyond
AI Search Optimization: A New Era for Middle East Printers
As artificial intelligence transforms how customers search online, printing and packaging companies must rethink their marketing strategies—or risk becoming invisible.
The rise of AI-driven search platforms – such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s Gemini – is redefining how people discover businesses
For years, online visibility was all about Google rankings. A wellstructured website, a few backlinks, and consistent keywords could help a printing company appear in front of potential customers. But that game is changing fast.
The rise of AI-driven search platforms—such as ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Google’s Gemini—is redefining how people discover businesses. Instead of scrolling through search results, users are now getting curated, conversational answers. These answers often highlight only a handful of companies, selected by AI systems that analyze content quality, authority, and relevance, not just keywords.
For commercial and packaging printers across the Middle East, this evolution carries a simple truth: The traditional SEO approach is no longer enough. To be found, you need to speak the language of AI.
Why Traditional SEO Is Losing Ground
In today’s search landscape, even the best-optimized websites often appear below paid ads or
AI-generated summaries. Organic reach is shrinking as algorithms prioritize sponsored placements and intelligent overviews.
For small and mid-sized printers, this makes visibility harder—and expensive. Competing with global online printing giants like Vistaprint or Canva on price or keywords is rarely sustainable. Instead, AI search favors those who demonstrate expertise, authenticity, and local relevance.
For example, when a business owner in Dubai or Riyadh asks an AI assistant, “Who can produce sustainable luxury packaging for my brand?” the AI doesn’t just scan web pages for those exact words. It analyzes context—technical content, case studies, client testimonials, and industry authority. The companies that have invested in credible, highquality content are the ones most likely to appear in the answer.
What AI Really Values AI-driven search is not just another algorithm—it’s an evaluator of expertise and trust. To stand out, your content must reflect depth, not decoration.
Here’s what AI “likes”: Educational content that explains your technology and capabilities
clearly—like how your UV inkjet system improves speed or how your flexo line meets sustainability goals. Thought leadership that positions your company as an expert in print innovation, packaging trends, or digital transformation.
Authentic customer stories and project showcases that highlight your experience in real-world applications.
Cross-linked topics on your website that build a logical “web of expertise.”
Social proof, including LinkedIn activity, positive reviews, and brand mentions.
In short, AI wants to see evidence that you’re an authority—not just a seller. When it finds that evidence, it’s more likely to recommend your company to potential buyers.
AI Optimization Is the New Content Marketing
In many ways, AI optimization is the next phase of content marketing. Printers in the Middle East have already embraced digital newsletters, social media campaigns, and blogs to reach clients. But now, those efforts must be recalibrated for AI comprehension.
AI systems analyze how content is written. They reward natural, human language and penalize text that looks “machine-made” or overly generic. That means copying and pasting from AI tools without adding your own insights can hurt your visibility.
Instead, focus on building content ecosystems—connected articles, visuals, and videos that show your expertise across multiple channels.
When AI recognizes this consistency, it begins to “trust” your brand, improving your discoverability across all digital touchpoints.
A Regional Advantage: Human Expertise
The Middle East print and packaging market has a unique edge in this new landscape. While global players dominate automated online printing, regional converters and printers excel at customization, innovation, and human service— qualities that AI can detect and amplify.
By emphasizing these strengths
through AI-optimized storytelling, local companies can stand out globally. A printer in Sharjah or Jeddah that showcases expertise in short-run luxury packaging, or a press in Cairo that publishes educational content on digital finishing, is more likely to be recommended in AI search results.
Practical Steps for Printers
Audit your website — Identify gaps where AI might not recognize your expertise.
Develop cornerstone content — Write in-depth articles explaining your unique printing capabilities. Use natural language — Write like you’re explaining to a client, not an algorithm.
Encourage reviews — Customer feedback builds the credibility AI looks for.
Connect your platforms — Link blogs, newsletters, and social posts to form a cohesive knowledge network.
The Future Belongs to the Visible AI-driven search is still in its early stages, but it’s advancing faster than most realize. Within a few years, it will likely overtake traditional SEO as the main driver of online visibility.
Printers who adapt early—those who invest in genuine, AI-friendly
content—will become the ones AI recommends first.
The takeaway is clear: The age of keyword tricks is ending. The age of intelligent visibility has begun.
For Middle Eastern printers ready to take that leap, AI search optimization isn’t just a marketing upgrade—it’s a survival strategy for the digital decade ahead.
For Middle Eastern printers ready to take that leap, AI search optimization isn’t just a marketing upgrade –it’s a survival strategy for the digital decade ahead
Sustainability is no longer a marketing slogan – it’s the R&D foundation of every serious ink manufacturer
Inks at a Crossroads
How Innovation and Sustainability Are Rewriting the Global Print Palette
A Market in Transformation
Once a quiet backbone of the print industry, the global inks sector has become a dynamic arena of chemistry, regulation, and digital disruption. According to Smithers’ latest report
The Future of Global Ink Markets to 2030, global ink consumption is forecast to reach 3.3 million metric tons in 2025 with a total value of US $35.8 billion.
ing, and growing brand interest in short-run customization.
Simultaneously, food-contact compliance has become nonnegotiable. Printers and converters increasingly demand inks that are safe, traceable, and fully compliant with evolving EU and FDA regulations — a challenge that is reshaping ink formulation at its core.
Digital Print: Fast, Flexible, and Growing
Digital printing remains the industry’s fastest-moving frontier.
model, while not universally popular, is proving effective at minimizing downtime and enabling predictable supply chains. Even analog press suppliers, notably Heidelberg through its Subscription Smart and Subscription Plus programs, are exploring this service-based model that bundles consumables, maintenance, and workflow optimization into one subscription.
Automation and the Rise of Smart Pressrooms
By 2030, that figure will climb to US $40.2 billion, representing a 2.3 % CAGR in value and 1.4 % CAGR in volume.
The call for shorter runs, rapid turnaround, and personalized graphics favors inkjet technology over toner,
While headline growth remains moderate, the industry’s direction is clear: away from declining publication printing and toward packaging, labeling, and digitally enabled workflows that prioritize speed, compliance, and sustainability.
Packaging Leads, Publications Retreat
The balance of power has decisively shifted toward packaging and labels, now the lifeblood of many ink manufacturers. As publication print volumes shrink, packaging applications continue to surge, propelled by e-commerce, localized manufactur-
with new single-pass, high-speed presses setting the pace.
R&D is gravitating toward waterbased and radiation-curing chemistries, including hybrid UV-water formulations that deliver lower VOC emissions and faster drying cycles.
To support consistent uptime, OEMs are integrating recirculation systems, nozzle-health monitoring, and inline compensation tools directly into their hardware.
Many leading vendors — HP Indigo, Fujifilm, Canon, and Domino — continue to operate within closed consumables ecosystems, tying print quality and warranties to certified inksets. The cost-per-page business
Pressrooms are steadily evolving toward automation and intelligent workflow management.
The next generation of “smart factories” aims for lights-out printing, where presses self-monitor, recalibrate, and run unattended during off-hours.
A major enabler is extended-gamut printing, where printers replace multiple spot colors with fixed inksets (CMYK + OGV). This approach reduces downtime, improves color consistency, and eliminates unnecessary wash-ups. Manufacturers such as BOBST and Mark Andy now integrate this feature into their flexographic lines, aligning analog printing with the efficiency standards of digital systems.
Green Chemistry and Circular Thinking
Sustainability is no longer a marketing slogan — it’s the R&D foundation of every serious ink manufacturer. Smithers data show that water-based inks already account for 18.5 % of global volume, forecast to approach 20 % by 2030. These formulations are rapidly replacing solvent-based inks in flexo, gravure, and inkjet applications due to their environmental advantages and regulatory alignment. At the same time, producers are shifting toward bio-based raw materials and resins that simplify substrate recycling. Nitrocellulose, long a staple of flexible packaging inks but difficult to de-ink, is being phased out in favor of more circular alternatives.
Europe’s forthcoming Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) will formalize eco-design standards by 2030, mandating recyclability criteria that are expected to influence global compliance norms.
As a result, VOC-free, low-carbon, and
eco-formulated inks are emerging as the new commercial benchmarks.
Food Contact, Functional Films, and the Next Frontier
The next frontier lies where materials science meets food safety.
With the market’s pivot toward paper-based and mono-material plastics, converters need inks that adhere to low-surface-energy films while curing fast and maintaining durability.
• Saudi Arabia leads the region, accounting for around 44 % of total value in 2024, supported by industrial diversification and consumergoods growth.
• Lithographic printing remains the dominant process (≈ 44 % share), while acrylic-resin systems hold roughly 31 % of the market thanks to their gloss, durability, and color fidelity.
The Middle East is not merely following global trends — it is fast becoming a testbed for sustainable, high-performance ink solutions.
Innovation Is the New Currency
Emerging generations of UV-curable and water-based food-contact inks are addressing this need for labels, corrugated board, and flexible packaging — ensuring both performance and compliance.
• Packaging and labels comprise more than 40 % of regional ink use, driven by growth in food & beverage packaging and e-commerce branding.
Across the GCC, UAE and Saudi Arabia are spearheading adoption of water-based, UV, and hybrid ink
In parallel, functional coatings and conductive inks are opening the door to smart packaging, RFID, and printed electronics, broadening the very definition of “ink.”
Regional Spotlight: Middle East Market Poised for Expansion
While global trends dominate headlines, the Middle East is quietly becoming one of the most promising emerging ink markets.
According to Polaris Market Research, the region’s printing-inks market was valued at US $2.74 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach nearly US $3.9 billion by 2034, a robust 3.6 % CAGR.
technologies aligned with national sustainability targets.
Challenges remain — particularly the region’s reliance on imported raw materials, limited domestic ink manufacturing, and a shortage of advanced pressroom specialists.
For suppliers, success will depend on:
• Building local service and supply networks;
• Delivering food-safe, low-VOC formulations; and
• Tailoring digital inkjet chemistries to local substrates and humidity conditions.
As raw-material costs fluctuate and customer expectations evolve, innovation — in chemistry, workflow, and sustainability — remains the industry’s most valuable currency. The printing-ink market may not be expanding dramatically in tonnage, but it is evolving intelligently: cleaner, faster, smarter, and more connected to the digital ecosystems shaping the future of print.
Key Figures at a Glance (2025 – 2030)
Global ink volume
2025: 3.3 million tons
2023: 3.5 million tons
CAGR: 1.4%
Global market value
2025: US $35.8 billion
2023: US $40.2 billion
CAGR: 2.3%
Water-based ink share
2025: 18.5 %
2023: 19.7 %
Fastest-growing sectors
2025: Packaging, Labels, Digital Inkjet 2023: --
Middle East market value (2024 > 2034)
2025: US $2.74 > 3.9 billion
CAGR: 3.6%
Sources and References
1. Smithers (2025). The Future of Global Ink Markets to 2030. Smithers.com
2. Global Printing Inks Market Up 2.4 % a Year to 2030 – Smithers. Converting Quarterly, 2025. convertingquarterly.com
3. Smithers (2018). Packaging Inks Lead Growth in the Printing Market. smithers.com
4. Polaris Market Research (2024). Middle East Printing Inks Market Size and Forecast 2024–2034. polarismarketresearch.com
5. Market Data Forecast (2024). Middle East Printing Inks Market – Trends and Analysis. marketdataforecast.com
The Middle East is not merely following global trends — it is fast becoming a testbed for sustainable, high-performance ink solutions
Reinventing Pharma Packaging
How global innovation, digital intelligence, and material science are reshaping the future of medicine packs.
“Our goal is to design packaging that protects both the medicine and the planet.” — Innovation Director, Südpack Medica
Bayer’s PET Breakthrough
Bayer, in collaboration with Liveo Research, developed an all-PET blister for its Aleve line, cutting carbon emissions by around 38% compared to PVC designs. The company plans to eliminate PVC entirely from its consumer health portfolio by 2030 — a milestone that signals a major industry shift.
Emerging Alternatives
Pharmaceutical packaging is undergoing a revolution. Once viewed merely as a protective shell, packaging has now become a strategic driver of sustainability, compliance, and patient experience
The New Prescription for Packaging Pharmaceutical packaging is undergoing a revolution. Once viewed merely as a protective shell, packaging has now become a strategic driver of sustainability, compliance, and patient experience. From PVC-free blisters to AI-enabled smart packs, the sector is evolving fast — merging technology with environmental responsibility.
Why the Change — and Why Now Governments are tightening rules on single-use plastics, and patients are demanding greener brands. In Europe, circular-economy mandates are forcing pharmaceutical companies to rethink traditional PVC and aluminum laminate systems. But shifting away from legacy materials is not simple. Every change must pass through rigorous validation for stability, extractables, and regulatory approval by authorities such as the FDA and EMA. That’s why innovation in pharma packaging today is as much about compliance and collaboration as it is about creativity.
Blister Packs Go Green
Südpack Medica’s PharmaGuard
A standout example of sustainable design, PharmaGuard replaces conventional PVC/Al with a monomaterial polypropylene (PP) system. Life-cycle analysis shows up to 47% lower carbon footprint and easy recyclability, earning it the Swiss Packaging Award for Sustainability.
Other R&D initiatives include HDPE-based blisters, paper–plastic hybrids, and biopolymers such as PLA and PHA. While promising, these materials still face hurdles in moisture resistance, machinability, and cost before large-scale adoption becomes feasible.
Smarter, Safer, and More Connected
The digital transformation of pharma packaging is underway. Smart packs equipped with temperature and humidity sensors, QR/NFC chips, and serialization codes are enhancing safety, traceability, and adherence. Patients can scan their packs for dosage instructions or receive real-time refill alerts via connected apps.
“In the next decade, medicine packs will evolve from passive containers to active digital health companions.” — Pharmaceutical Commerce
Automation and AI on the Production Line
Innovation doesn’t stop at the pack itself. AI-powered vision inspection systems detect micro-defects and labeling errors in real time. Predictive maintenance minimizes downtime, while modular packaging lines handle multiple formats efficiently — a necessity as pharma companies move toward smaller, personalized batches.
These upgrades not only boost productivity but also reduce waste, energy, and human error — all vital steps toward sustainability.
Beyond Blisters: Biologics and Cold Chain Packaging
With the rapid rise of biologics and large-volume injectables, packaging is evolving to meet cold-chain stabil-
ity demands. Smart secondary cartons featuring temperature-sensitive inks, RFID trackers, or color-changing indicators now ensure product integrity throughout distribution. Meanwhile, lightweight, reusable shippers and trays are reducing logistics costs and environmental impact across the supply chain.
Five Pillars of the Future
Trend: Material Convergence
Outlook: Expect consolidation around high-performance, recyclable polymers like PP and PET.
Trend: Cross-Industry Collaboration Outlook: True recyclability will depend on cooperation between pharma, recyclers, and regulators.
Trend: Scientific Validation Outlook: Stability, leachables, and barrier testing will define adoption speed.
Trend: Patient-Centric Design Outlook: Accessibility and ease of use will drive adherence and brand loyalty.
Trend: Gradual Transition Outlook: Hybrid systems combining traditional and sustainable materials will dominate in early phases.
From Compliance to Competitive Advantage
The evolution of pharma packaging is not just a materials story — it’s a mindset shift. Sustainability has become a core performance metric, blending environmental goals with patient safety and corporate credibility. In this new era, packaging will no longer be the afterthought of drug design. It will be the face of pharmaceutical innovation — intelligent, compliant, and unmistakably green.
The Hidden Role of Printing Substrates in Brand Security
In an era where counterfeit goods can imitate almost any product, packaging has become a brand’s first line of defense. Beyond its visual appeal or practical function, the material a product is printed on — known as the substrate — plays a vital role in ensuring authenticity, safety, and consumer trust. Every brand relies on materials such as paper, board, glass, metal, and plastic to contain and protect its products. But these same materials
adulterated contents.
Paper, on the other hand, remains the most trusted substrate for security printing. It’s affordable, easy to print, and highly adaptable to covert and overt protection features. Watermarks, embedded fibers, and UV-reactive markers — all techniques borrowed from banknote production — make paper labels extremely hard to replicate. Because paper tears or degrades when removed, it also dis-
that change form when heated, revealing hidden text or logos that confirm a product’s authenticity.
Perhaps the most intriguing advance lies in material biometrics — the idea that every substrate has a unique microscopic “fingerprint.”
Modern imaging systems can scan and record these random surface patterns, linking each to a barcode or database entry for instant verification through a smartphone or scanner. This fusion of material
can also carry hidden technologies that deter tampering, forgery, and refilling — the most common threats to brand integrity.
Metals such as aluminum and tinplate, for example, are used for cans, lids, and seals. By adding holographic finishes, laser-engraved codes, or diffractive varnishes, converters can turn ordinary metal into a barrier that confirms authenticity. Even twist-off lids on jars include simple yet effective tamper indicators — the familiar “click” of a released vacuum seal.
Glass, though difficult to forge, is still vulnerable to refilling fraud. Pairing distinctive bottle shapes with tamper-evident closures or shrink-wrap seals prevents reuse while protecting consumers from
courages label reuse on counterfeit packaging.
Board materials such as carton stock extend these benefits to outer packaging. Layers within the board can be color-coded or embedded with identifiers, while surface embossing, metalized coatings, or holographic foils make duplication nearly impossible. Even simple hangtags or swing tickets can carry microprinting, RFID chips, or forensic taggants that trace the product through the supply chain. Plastics and synthetic films, though harder to secure, are gaining new defenses through micro-taggants — microscopic particles that can be read only with specialized scanners. Researchers are also developing shape-memory polymers
science and digital tracking represents the next frontier in brand protection.
Finally, tamper-evident labels and adhesives add visible proof of security. VOID patterns, destructible vinyl films, and stress-sensitive coatings make any interference immediately apparent, while forensic markers embedded in inks or adhesives can confirm a product’s origin down to parts per billion. The future of secure packaging lies in this convergence of physical and digital security. As materials become smarter and more responsive, the substrate itself will serve as the brand’s silent guardian — proof that what reaches the consumer’s hands is genuine, safe, and exactly as intended.
As materials become smarter and more responsive, the substrate itself will serve as the brand’s silent guardian
What was once “imagination-driven” work is increasingly augmented, or in some cases, replaced, by algorithms capable of learning style, color theory, and visual balance
The Future of Graphic Design in the Age of AI
From Risk to Reinvention
Artificial intelligence is redefining creative professions — and graphic design, once considered a safe haven for human creativity, is now among the jobs most exposed to automation. According to Design Week, the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report places graphic designers among the most at-risk occupations, ranking 11th on the list of roles expected to decline
Key Metric (WEF 2025)
Net job change by 2030
Jobs undergoing transformation
Core skills changing
Fastest-growing skills
Most at-risk categories
in the coming years.
The reason? AI’s ability to perform tasks once reserved for creative minds — from generating layouts and images to producing cohesive brand assets — is rapidly accelerating. What was once “imagination-driven” work is increasingly augmented, or in some cases, replaced, by algorithms capable of learning style, color theory, and visual balance.
But the story isn’t one of disappear-
+78 million (170 m created vs 92 m displaced)
22% of all roles
39% by 2030
AI, Big Data, Tech Literacy, Creative Thinking, Resilience
Routine cognitive and administrative roles
ance. It’s one of transformation.
The Broader Shift: What the WEF Report Reveals
The Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum (WEF) paints a detailed picture of a rapidly changing global job market. While automation and AI will disrupt millions of roles, they will also create new opportunities — especially for those who adapt.
Relevance to Design & Creative Fields
Global job growth continues, but unevenly. Creative roles must evolve to stay relevant.
Design work will not vanish but will change in structure, focus, and required skillsets.
Nearly 4 in 10 current skills will be outdated — designers must upskill continuously.
Creativity remains vital, but must integrate technological fluency.
Repetitive or production-based design tasks are vulnerable to automation.
This data makes one thing clear: the design profession is entering a phase of skill transformation, not extinction.
Why Graphic Design is Particularly Vulnerable
Graphic design sits at the crossroads of creativity and knowledge work — precisely where AI’s impact is strongest.
1. Task Replacement, Not Job Replacement – AI can already generate logo variations, layouts, and product visuals, handling repetitive parts of design faster than humans.
2. Commoditization of Output –Tools like Midjourney, DALL·E, and Adobe Firefly allow non-designers to produce professional-level visuals instantly, flooding the market with cheap creative content.
3. Shift in Employer Priorities –The WEF notes that companies increasingly prioritize tech-savvy creatives, meaning designers must pair artistic skill with digital fluency, UX thinking, and AI literacy.
Opportunities Amid the Disruption
Despite the risks, the WEF lists creative thinking, analytical thinking, and technological literacy among the top 10 essential skills of the future workforce. This creates a massive opportunity faor designers willing to evolve:
• Hybrid Creativity – The next generation of designers will use AI tools as collaborators, not competitors, blending human imagination with machine precision.
• Data-Driven and Ethical Design – Designers who understand behavioral data, inclusivity, and environmental impact will play key roles in shaping meaningful design systems.
• Continuous Upskilling – With 39% of skills changing, ongoing training in AI tools, UX research, and motion/immersive design will become essential.
The New Role of the Designer
Tomorrow’s designer will be part technologist, part strategist, and part storyteller.
AI will manage production — but only humans can define meaning.
Design education and professional development must adapt: universities and companies should integrate AI, data visualization, and ethics into their creative curricula. This redefinition transforms design from execution to orchestration, making the human designer the conductor of a symphony of intelligent tools.
The same anxiety surfaced with the printing press, photography, and desktop publishing — yet each innovation expanded creativity rather than killing it.
The AI revolution follows that pattern. While automation will redefine workflows, it will also free designers to think bigger, faster, and more strategically. As the WEF notes, the future belongs not to those who resist change but to those who redefine it.
Graphic design may be at risk — but it’s also at the forefront of reinvention:
a field where human imagination and artificial intelligence merge to create a new, dynamic future of creativity.
• Strategic Design Thinking – As AI handles routine production, human designers will focus on brand strategy, emotion-driven storytelling, and user experience — areas where human judgment excels.
Looking Ahead: From Threat to Catalyst
Fears that AI will replace designers overlook a larger truth: technology has always reshaped design.
While automation will redefine workflows, it will also free designers to think bigger, faster, and more strategically
The UAE’s national commitment to economic diversification and digital transformation aligns seamlessly with Gulf Print & Pack’s central themes
The strategic meeting point for decision-makers shaping the future of print
Gulf Print & Pack 2026 unites more than 8,000 professionals and 300 exhibitors in Dubai, showcasing the region’s accelerating shift toward digital, sustainable, and personalized printing and packaging solutions.
Dubai to Host the Region’s Most Influential Print Event
Dubai once again becomes the epicenter of print innovation in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) when Gulf Print & Pack 2026 returns to the Dubai World Trade Centre from 31 March to 2 April 2026.
Now in its 15th edition, the biennial show is more than just a trade exhibition—it’s a strategic platform for innovation, investment, and transformation across commercial and packaging print sectors.
With over 8,000 expected visitors and 300+ exhibitors, Gulf Print & Pack 2026 will showcase the latest advances in digital and hybrid printing technologies, label and flexible packaging solutions, workflow automation, AI-driven production tools, and sustainable materials—all under one roof.
Attendees can expect live demonstrations, technical workshops, and product launches offering firsthand insights into how technology is reshaping the print landscape.
Why Dubai?
Dubai’s status as a global business hub makes it the ideal host city for the region’s leading print and packaging event. With world-class
infrastructure, pro-business policies, and a strong focus on sustainability, the emirate continues to drive transformation across manufacturing, retail, and logistics—sectors that directly influence print and packaging demand.
personalization, automated finishing, and cloud-based workflow management—empowering printers to achieve faster turnaround and greater profitability.
2. Sustainability
Sustainability is no longer optional—
The UAE’s national commitment to economic diversification and digital transformation aligns seamlessly with Gulf Print & Pack’s central themes, offering visitors a clear window into the future of smart, sustainable production.
Key Themes and Focus Areas
1. Digital Transformation
The MENA region’s shift from analog to digital workflows is accelerating. Gulf Print & Pack 2026 will highlight innovations in inkjet and toner-based systems, digital embellishment, variable data printing for
it’s a business imperative. Exhibitors will present recyclable and biodegradable substrates, energy-efficient curing systems, water-based and lowVOC inks, and technologies aligned with circular economy principles— supporting printers’ efforts to reduce their environmental footprint.
3. Personalization and Short-Run Production
Driven by the growth of e-commerce and niche marketing, customized print and packaging are becoming critical differentiators. Gulf Print & Pack 2026 will spotlight technolo-
gies enabling short-run, high-impact production across a wide range of applications—from transactional print and photobooks to labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons, and corrugated e-commerce packaging.
4. Smart Packaging and Interactive Print
Interactive and intelligent packaging are redefining how brands connect with consumers. Expect demonstrations of QR code and RFID integration, augmented reality (AR) applications, and track-and-trace systems that boost both consumer engagement and supply chain transparency.
Emerging Trends in MENA’s Print Landscape
Across MENA, the digital print market is expanding by up to 10% annually, driven by the rise of personalized marketing, online retail, and on-demand production.
Sustainability continues to shape
investment decisions as regional governments tighten environmental regulations. Printers are responding with eco-friendly inks, waste reduction strategies, and renewable energy systems—and events like Gulf Print & Pack are helping them navigate this transformation.
Meanwhile, demand for FMCG and retail packaging—especially from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt— is fueling growth in flexible packaging, tamper-evident formats, and minimalist, health-conscious design aesthetics.
Smart packaging solutions incorporating NFC, RFID, AR, and blockchain-based authentication are also on the rise, enhancing both security and consumer interaction.
At the operational level, AI-powered design tools, automated finishing, and cloud analytics are helping converters combat rising costs and labor shortages by improving productivity and efficiency.
Looking Ahead
As Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 program accelerates industrial diversification and major events such as Expo 2030 and the FIFA World Cup 2034 drive new infrastructure and consumer demand, the regional print and packaging market is entering an era of unprecedented opportunity.
Gulf Print & Pack 2026 is not just an exhibition—it’s a strategic hub for growth, learning, and collaboration. For print service providers, packaging converters, and brand owners across MENA, attending this event means gaining a decisive competitive edge in an industry evolving faster than ever.
Be Part of the Revolution
From sustainability and smart packaging to digital workflows and regional expansion, the future of print will be on full display in Dubai.
For PSPs, packaging converters, and brand owners across MENA, attending this event means gaining a decisive competitive edge in an industry evolving faster than ever
Don’t miss your chance to be part of MENA’s print transformation. Find out more: www.gulfprintpack.com
