Innovation, AI Take Centre Stage at FESPA Middle East 2026
The 3rd edition Of FESPA Middle East concluded on 15 January 2026 at Dubai Exhibition Centre (DEC), marking its most successful year. The event solidified its position as the premier hub for the MENA region’s speciality print, signage, and visual communications industries, attracting over 3,000 visitors and featuring more than 150 global brands.
Revolutionising Workflow with AI and Sustainability
A standout feature of the 2026 show was the debut of FESPA AI Clinic, supported by KOSHIMA.AI. Led by Carlo Pepe, the clinic provided a 20-minute, one-on-one consultation designed to help print service providers identify where AI can deliver the greatest impact. Pepe reflected on how quickly generative AI has moved from experimentation to everyday use across print businesses, with over 65% of organisations now actively using AI tools.
The Sustainability Spotlight also drew significant attention, offering commercially viable pathways for businesses to adopt eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient workflows. This addressed a critical industry gap identified in the latest FESPA Print Census, where 92% of printers recognised the importance of sustainability, but only 40% currently prioritise it as a core business strategy.
World Wrap Masters Middle East 2026 Crowns New Champion
The high-energy competition saw elite professionals battle through technical challenges involving vehicle wraps and paint protection film (PPF). Simon Jokumsen (Denmark) secured the title, marking his second major win of the season. Aleksandar Atanasov (Bulgaria) was the runner-up, with Yuki Hayashida (Japan), clinching the third spot.
Jokumsen will now represent the region at the World Wrap Masters Finals in Barcelona in May 2026.
Strategic Market Outlook from Industry Experts
Regional industry leaders and international experts shared several strategic takeaways. Amit Radia (Atlas Group) discussed the rise of print-on-demand and SaaS platforms, advising businesses on the realities of regional expansion. Christopher Minn (Digital Ink) explored the Middle East’s growing role as a connecting hub between global production networks and automated creativity. George Nubar Simonian (Badr University in Cairo) provided a decade-long analysis of the regional print market’s evolution to help businesses identify future opportunities. Jon Bailey (Precision Proco Group) shared how he transitioned a local UK business into a global entity, the importance of a global network for scaling print-on-demand technology, and sustainable local production.
Industry leaders also highlighted the region’s massive growth potential, with the GCC digital printing market alone expected to reach $1.16 billion by 2029. Key speakers emphasised that the Middle East is no longer just a consumer market, but a strategic hub for global production and automated creativity.
“FESPA Middle East 2026 has been a crucible for thought leaderships,” says FESPA Middle East Regional Manager (MEASA) Bazil Cassim. “By bringing technology and education together, we’ve created an environment where businesses can immediately apply innovation to their operations.”
