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GPP

GPP 2026 to highlight key trends in

commercial and package printing

T Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region are undergo-
he commercial and packaging printing markets in the

ing a transformative period, driven by the continued move
to digital printing and finishing, evolving consumer prefer-
ences, and a growing focus on sustainability. As we approach
Gulf Print & Pack 2026, the premier exhibition for the printing and
packaging industry in the region, it is essential to explore the key
trends shaping these markets and how businesses can leverage them to
stay competitive.
The MENA region is witnessing significant growth in the printing
and packaging markets, fuelled by economic diversification efforts,
population growth, and rising consumer spending. Countries like the
UAE and Saudi Arabia are investing heavily in infrastructure and
industrial development, creating opportunities for the printing and
packaging industries to expand, both for domestic consumption and
exports.
The region’s strategic location as a global trade hub is also driving
demand for high-quality packaging solutions, particularly in the
export-oriented sectors. Additionally, the increasing adoption of auto- MENA region is witnessing significant growth in printing and packaging markets
mation and Industry 4.0 technologies is transforming production pro-
cesses, enabling businesses to achieve greater efficiency and scalability. smart posters. QR codes can direct consumers to product information,
Digital printing continues to gain momentum in the MENA region, promotional offers, or sustainability initiatives, while AR features can cre-
particularly in the commercial printing sector. Businesses are increas- ate immersive brand experiences. In the pharmaceutical and food indus-
ingly turning to digital printing for its ability to deliver faster turna- tries, smart packaging is also being used to enhance product safety and
round times, reduced waste and cost-effective solutions for smaller traceability, addressing growing concerns about counterfeit products and
print volumes. food safety.
In the packaging sector, digital printing is enabling brands to create At Gulf Print & Pack 2026, smart packaging will be a focal point, with
personalized and limited-edition packaging, which resonates with exhibitors showcasing the latest technologies that bridge the gap between
consumers seeking unique and tailored experiences. This trend is par- physical and digital experiences. This trend underscores the importance
ticularly evident in the food and beverage, cosmetics, and e-commerce of innovation in meeting the evolving expectations of tech-savvy consum-
industries, where packaging plays a critical role in brand differentia- ers. While brands and printing businesses in the MENA region are not
tion. currently faced with the kind of detailed regulations now being imple-
In the commercial print sector digital printing is creating new mented by the European Union, sustainability is rising rapidly up the
opportunities even in markets thought to be declining. A good exam- regional agenda, both in the printing and packaging markets.
ple is on-demand book printing and the rise of personalized photo- Governments across the region, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and
books. Digital continues to replace analogue printing across a wide Egypt, are already implementing stringent regulations to reduce environ-
range of applications from high-speed transactional printing to short mental impact, such as bans on single-use plastics. In response, the print-
run magazines, brochures and personalized direct marketing. Wide ing and packaging industries will need to prepare to embrace sustainable
format continues to create new business opportunities for PSPs across practices, such as increasing use of biodegradable and recyclable sub-
a range of applications from short-run packaging to floor tiles, posters strates and investment in energy-efficient printing technologies.
and digitally printed textiles. Conclusion
At Gulf Print & Pack 2026, exhibitors will showcase the latest
advancements in digital printing, including high-speed inkjet and From digital printing and sustainability to smart packaging, the trends
electrophotographic technologies and wide format, which are set to shaping the industry reflect a dynamic and forward-thinking market. By
redefine the printing landscape in the region. staying ahead of these trends, businesses can position themselves for suc-
‘Smart’ solutions, such as QR codes, NFC tags, and augmented real- cess in the evolving MENA printing and packaging landscape. Gulf Print
ity (AR) features, are becoming increasingly popular in the MENA & Pack 2026 promises to be an unmissable event for anyone looking to
region, enabling brands to provide interactive and engaging experi- thrive in this exciting and rapidly changing industry.
ences, both in packaging and commercial printing applications such as Written by Andy Thomas-Emans, Strategic Director at LOUPE Global
08 PrintWeek MENA February 2026 www.printweekmena.com