Experts at Paperworld Middle East highlight print’s enduring power in a digital-first world

UAE – Experts at Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East say print is far from fading, rather, it is evolving.

During a Hub Forum session titled “Future of Print vs Digital Coexistence,” industry leaders explored how physical and digital media can complement each other in an age defined by fast scrolling and shrinking attention spans.

The panel featured Her Excellency Laila Rahhal El Atfani, Founder and CEO of Women Business Circle, and Purva Grover, Author, Journalist and Creative Entrepreneur.

Both speakers emphasized that despite the dominance of screens, readers and brands are rediscovering the emotional and sensory value of print.

Grover noted that today’s digital overload is reshaping reading habits.

“We don’t read anymore, we snack,” she said. “We’re consuming more data than ever, and attention spans are getting shorter. A digital story can be forgotten the moment you scroll.”

This saturation, she added, is driving renewed interest in tactile experiences that offer depth, permanence and escape from constant notifications.

Her Excellency echoed this sentiment, pointing to strong regional engagement with physical media.

“We’re seeing a clear return to print,” she said. “The Sharjah Book Fair, for example, is extremely well attended, showing continued demand for printed media in the UAE.”

Beyond publishing, global brands are also championing print culture. Grover highlighted that luxury fashion houses are investing in literary and print-focused experiences, Prada recently commissioned an author for a short story collection, while Yves Saint Laurent opened its own bookstore in Paris.

“Whether in books, newspapers or magazines, if we attract audiences through design and aesthetics, print will continue to thrive,” she said.

Another Hub Forum session shifted attention to physical brand experiences. Mohamed Alayat, Founder of Event Gift, stressed the longevity of tangible promotional items.

“Gifting and promotional items are something you can touch,” he said. “If I spend the same amount on quality gifts as I do on social media, the impact of the gift can last for years.”

Paperworld Middle East and Gifts & Lifestyle Middle East continue through tomorrow, showcasing more than 650 international brands from 38 countries.

Exhibitors include Farook International, Al Fahidi Stationery, Pan Gulf Marketing and Ittihad Paper Mill, alongside leading giftware and lifestyle suppliers such as Party Centre and Magic Trading.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE