With the global paper products market projected to reach $281.23 billion by 2030, Dubai is all ready to host Paperworld Middle East and the co-located Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East. The events, running from 11-13 November 2025 at Dubai World Trade Centre, will feature a dynamic new product showcase, engaging thought-leadership sessions, and enhanced visitor experiences to reflect the industry’s growth.
Bringing together leading global manufacturers, distributors, and retailers from 40 countries under one roof, the 2025 edition will spotlight how the industry is adapting to shifting regional production opportunities, sustainability imperatives, and consumer habits.
New Topics at Hub Forum
Hub Forum, the show’s inspiring discussion platform, will drive thought-provoking discussions on new topics, including ‘Capacity Expansion and Localisation Strategies in the MEA Paper Industry’, ‘Connecting Paper Manufacturers, Traders & Packaging Leaders for Regional Growth’ and ‘Influence of Youth and Education as Market Drivers’, among others.
This year’s event welcomes several distinguished speakers who are leaders in their respective fields. The new additions to the speaker lineup include Shalin Gandhi, Managing Director, Submarine Pens; Nima Vakili, Founder and CEO, Safa BioWorks; Latesh Radhakishen, Managing Director, Threads; Nivine Hachem, Co-Founder and CEO, Paltic; and Enas Sobhy Ali, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility – Education and Awareness, Tadweer Waste Treatment.
Adding a fresh dimension to the programme, Amer Bitar, Founder and CEO of BBM Licensing – a company founded in Canada and now empowering brands across the MENA region – will explore how brand licensing is evolving as a strategic growth engine for brands in the Middle East – particularly across lifestyle, entertainment, and corporate sectors.
“My session at The Hub Forum will provide attendees with practical insights into how global brands can localise effectively, build long-term partnerships, and leverage licensing to drive sustainable business expansion in the region. I’m excited to see events like Paperworld Middle East spotlighting brand licensing as a driver of innovation and cross-sector collaboration,” says Bitar.
Artistry Workshop Returns with Wider Programme
Returning by popular demand, the Artistry Workshop series will offer a wider programme this year, delivered by a host of new creative participants. In addition to long-term collaborators Funun Arts Group, four additional participating brands join the 2025 lineup, including Al Waraq, FoscART, skilldeer, and SkriblBox.
Celebrating World Origami Day, Al Waraq’s Jamila Navarghawala will lead an interactive workshop titled ‘The Joy of Folding’. “Attendees will leave not just with beautiful creations, but a deeper understanding of structure, symmetry, and the cultural roots of origami,” says Navarghawala.
The workshop complements an eclectic programme of hands-on experiences, including a ‘Paint Your Own Tote Bag’ session with Shiba Khan from Funun Arts Group, who returns from 2024. Joining her is a new wave of creative talent leading workshops at the show, including a ‘Personalised Card Design’ session with Reesha Almeida Coutinho of Prêt à Papier, and a creative ‘Clay Workshop’ with Fosca Garcia of FoscART. Each workshop will offer art enthusiasts and visitors the opportunity to explore the artistry of paper and design in new and meaningful ways.
Premium Writing Instruments to be Showcased for the First Time
Paperworld Middle East is set to introduce a new product sector dedicated to Premium Writing Instruments, highlighting the craftsmanship and heritage of leading global brands. The new segment will feature a selection of high-quality stationery and writing tools from around the world.
Among the exhibitors are US-based A.T. Cross Company, which will present its range of high-quality stationery. Others include Indian companies Ray & Bluestone LLP, showcasing hobby, craft, and art supplies, and Hi-Tech Writing Instruments, offering premium office supplies.
Commenting on the upcoming edition, Teresa Heitor Goncalves, Portfolio Director – Consumer Goods, Messe Frankfurt Middle East, says, “As the only platform of its kind, Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 2025 continue to bring 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.”
Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East 2025 will be held in DWTC’s Halls 1-4 and Za’abeel Hall 3.
Timings: 10 am – 6 pm (all days).
