Supervision of printing industry
Like other industries, the printing industry also falls under the auspices of the Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). As a result, DCCI formed the Printing and Publishing Group to streamline printing services and simultaneously enrich it to address emerging issues. An annual celebration of successful companies in the sector takes place during the Dubai International Print Awards (DIPA).
Major printing services offered in Dubai
Offset printing
This is a popular printing method that involves transferring full-color images from a plate to a rubber blanket, then onto the desired paper. Complete products include stationery, catalogues, magazines, books, brochures, newspapers and books.
Flexographic printing
Printing presses employing this technology operate a flexible letterpress that benefits from the ability to print on a wide variety of surfaces such as metal films, laminated materials, synthetic materials as well as paper. Packaging materials, self-adhesive labels, wallpaper, kitchen utensils and wrappers compose some of the items printed with this technology.
Security printing
For those who require specific identification or some form of protection for desired items, then security printing is a welcome service. Products that fit into this category are election papers, stock exchange bonds passports, identity cards, visa papers, lottery tickets, cheques, share certificates, air tickets and gift vouchers.
Digital printing
With so much information stored and transmitted in digital format, print services that can access digital information and print it directly. The printers implemented here can also print on different substrates. You get quality photos, commercial print products (for sales or marketing initiatives), architectural products and art materials.
Some printing service providers
Emirates Printing Press (EPP)
Collecting more than 200 million pages printed every month, EPP caters to the bulk of the printing needs of many individuals and reputed organizations. Their merchandise includes directories, brochures, annual reports, magazines and books. What’s more, EPP presents other related services such as packaging, binding, lamination and varnishing within the same building. EPP’s client list includes Qatar Airways, Emirates Airlines and Burj Al Arab.
Rakam International
This company specializes in bespoke ribbon and label printing, but also covers additional printing services With ISO certification and print award nominations (especially for their flexographic printing), Rakam International currently serves many companies in Dubai and beyond. Banks, pharmaceutical companies, malls, local governments and the fast-moving consumer goods industry are notable clients of the firm.
Pentown Paper Products
Penttown has an array of quality services and products. From offset printing to digital printing, packaging, advertising and even exhibition stands as well as vehicle graphics. This impressive portfolio has attracted companies like Hampton International, International Cricket Council, LG and Canon. Their service saw them win a DIPA award in 2014 for excellence in digital printing.
Spectrum UAE Limited
They pride themselves on competitive rates, unmatched customer service and quality. Services offered on the spectrum range from education, advertising, public relations, finance, publishing and media-related printing solutions. Organizations serving the spectrum include Al Arabi Travel, Baraka Media and Get Well Network to name a few.
Conclusion: What to look for
Here are some guidelines to help you while sourcing for printing companies in Dubai. Prioritizing quality, speed of product output, cost effectiveness, privacy and customer service is paramount. Other valuable markers are the unique services offered by the printing company and the ability to implement other printing related services under one roof