The 3D printing industry is poised to spiral to new heights in the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region, said the organisers of the upcoming SGI Dubai 2017, a leading tradeshow for the signage, outdoor media, screen and digital printing industry.

The 20th edition of the show will be held from January 15 to 17, 2017 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

“The 3D printing revolution caught up in the Middle East region few years ago, is one of the most formidable components of the printing industry,” said Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, chairman of event organisers International Expo Consults.

“3D printing is more versatile than traditional printing techniques. This industry has evolved over time although today there is a wealth of 3D technologies although in its nascent stage has innovated to come up with some of the finest end products.

“However, it is very important for the players within the 3D printing industry to educate their target audience on the key benefits of this technology.  This is a new technology and requires serious amount of education if this industry has to progress at a rapid pace. The research and development investment is high within this industry and it has to be put to the right use through proper knowledge and information transfer.”

The world’s first fully functional 3D office building in Dubai, billed as ‘Office of the Future’, is a great case study for the world. UAE is set to lead the 3D printing marketplace in the Middle East due to the growth in the country’s large commercial establishments, medical sector and also investments in infrastructure development. 3D printing technologies have many sectors that it can tap into especially construction, healthcare and consumer products among others.

“Several mega projects in the GCC region are in various phases of construction, ahead of global mega events, particularly the World Expo 2020 in the UAE and the Fifa World Cup 2022 in Qatar. Despite the oil prices and challenging market conditions, the Middle East market is upbeat when it comes to 3D printing technology. This sector is expected to remain buoyant as both private and public sector increases investments into this technology,” added Sharif Rahman, CEO, International Expo Consults. – TradeArabia News Service