Dubai, UAE – Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, inaugurated the 12th edition of Paperworld Middle East and co-located Gifts and Lifestyle Middle East at Dubai World Trade Centre. The events have seen a remarkable 50% growth from the previous year and anticipate hosting 10,000 global visitors until November 23.
During the opening, Dr. Al Zeyoudi toured various exhibition stands and international pavilions, emphasizing the show’s role in fostering global business connections. Noteworthy participants included APP, Ittihad Paper Mill, Fabriano, and representatives from China, Hong Kong, Germany, South Africa, and Turkey.
Expressing pleasure at the event’s alignment with the UAE’s Year of Sustainability, Dr. Al Zeyoudi highlighted the presence of sustainable practices among exhibitors. The Hub Forum, featuring discussions on market analysis, consumer behavior, and green initiatives, returned as a key platform for industry experts.
Fabriano’s Export Executive, Patrick Nahas, praised the UAE’s business approach and emphasized the significance of participating in the market. The show provides exposure, networking opportunities, and valuable insights.
The inaugural Paperworld Middle East Awards, recognizing achievements in the paper industry, will include categories such as ‘Licensed Product of the Year’ and the prestigious ‘Lifetime Achievement Award.’ The event also features the “Signature Canvas” where artists collaborate on a live painting to be donated to a local charity.
Syed Ali Akbar, Show Director, highlighted the event’s growth, with over 490 exhibitors and special features like Project Sustainability and the Paperworld Middle East Awards. The exhibition, in line with the UAE’s sustainability goals, showcases 80% environmentally friendly products.
Paperworld Middle East, the largest international exhibition in the paper, stationery, arts and crafts, office supplies, and school products sector, has become a vital meeting point for industry players over the past decade. Gifts and Lifestyle Middle East, part of the Ambiente family, complements Paperworld by featuring corporate gifting, lifestyle goods, leather products, and items for babies and kids, strategically timed before the holiday season.