GPP 2026 Returns to MENA’s Print Innovation Epicentre
As the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region continues to transform its industrial and consumer landscape, the printing and packaging sectors are undergoing a seismic shift. Gulf Print & Pack 2026, taking place from 31 March – 2 April 2026 at Dubai World Trade Centre, is set to be the region’s most influential platform for commercial and packaging print professionals, showcasing trends towards digital workflows and sustainability.
The biennial event, now in its 15th edition, is more than a trade show. It is a strategic hub for innovation, investment, and transformation.
With over 8,000 expected visitors and more than 300 exhibitors, Gulf Print & Pack 2026 will showcase the latest in digital and hybrid printing technologies, label and flexible packaging solutions, workflow automation and AI-driven tools, sustainable packaging materials, smart packaging solutions, and much more.
Visitors will benefit from live demonstrations, technical workshops, and multiple product launches, making it the ideal venue for discovering new revenue streams and operational efficiencies.
Whether one is a print service provider, packaging converter, brand owner, or technology supplier, the event offers unmatched access to decision makers and innovators shaping the future of print in MENA.
Global Business Hub
Dubai’s position as a global business hub makes it the perfect host city. With its advanced infrastructure, pro-business policies, and commitment to sustainability, the emirate is driving regional transformation across manufacturing, retail, and logistics – all key sectors for print and packaging.
The UAE’s leadership in economic diversification and digital transformation aligns perfectly with the themes of Gulf Print & Pack 2026, offering visitors a glimpse into the future of smart, sustainable production.
Key Themes and Focus Areas
Digital Transformation: The shift from analogue to digital printing and from manual to automated workflows is accelerating across MENA. Gulf Print & Pack 2026 will spotlight innovations in inkjet and toner-based systems, digital embellishment and finishing, variable data printing for personalisation, workflow automation, and cloud-based production.
Sustainability: Environmental responsibility is now a strategic imperative in the MENA region. Among sustainable technology solutions exhibited at the event will be recyclable and biodegradable substrates, energy-efficient curing and drying systems, water-based and low-VOC inks, and a range of solutions aligned with circular economy principles.
Personalisation and Short-run Production: With the rise of e-commerce and niche marketing, demand for customised print and packaging is surging. Technologies enabling short-run, high-impact production will be in the forefront at Gulf Print & Pack 2026. This will be seen across a wide range of commercial and package printing applications at the show, including transactional printing, wide format, textile and wallpaper, books and photobooks, posters, labels, flexible packaging, folding cartons, and corrugated e-commerce packaging.
Smart Packaging and Interactive Print: Interactive packaging and graphics are gaining traction in sectors like luxury goods, pharmaceuticals, and electronics. Expect to see QR code and RFID integration, augmented reality (AR) applications, and track-and-trace solutions for supply chain transparency.
Trends in Commercial and Packaging Printing in MENA
There are several key macro trends driving the adoption of new technology in the MENA region. The overall MENA digital print market – growing at anything up to 10% year-on-year – is driven by increased demand for personalised marketing, expansion of online retail, and the need for agile, cost-effective production.
Furthermore, the demand for sustainable technology will keep growing as governments across MENA continue to implement stricter environmental regulations. Printers are responding by adopting eco-friendly materials and inks, waste reduction strategies, and renewable energy systems. Events like Gulf Print & Pack are critical in helping businesses navigate this transition.
The FMCG and retail packaging sectors are currently experiencing a significant boom in demand across MENA, with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Egypt leading the charge. Trends include increasing consumption of flexible packaging for food and beverage, growing preference for tamper-evident and resealable formats, and health-conscious and minimalist design aesthetics.
Additionally, brands are also leveraging smart packaging to enhance consumer engagement and product security. Technologies include NFC and RFID tags, AR-enabled print media, and blockchain-based authentication. This technology is also being used in the commercial sector for ‘tap-to-connect’ smart posters and for direct mail promotions.
Automation and efficiency are key trends as printers, PSPs, and packaging converters look to combat rising costs and labour shortages. This is driving investment in AI-powered design and prepress tools, automated finishing systems, and cloud-based job tracking and analytics.
Lastly, major regional cultural and sports events, including Expo 2030 and 2034 FIFA World Cup in Saudi Arabia, are predicted to boost infrastructure and consumer activity, further stimulating demand for print and packaging solutions. At the same time Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 programme will continue to gain momentum over the next five years, driving interest in the whole range of print and packaging technology on show at Gulf Print & Pack 2026.
Strategic Platform for Growth, Learning, and Transformation
Gulf Print & Pack 2026 is not just a showcase – it’s a strategic platform for growth, learning, and transformation. For industry professionals across MENA and beyond, the event gives attendees a competitive edge in a market that is evolving faster than ever.
From sustainability and smart packaging to digital workflows and regional expansion, the future of print will be on full display in Dubai.
Opening Timings: (31 March – 1 April 2026): 10 am – 5. 30 pm, (2 April 2026): 10 am – 4.30 pm.
