Digital signage industry in GCC to gain significant market share by 2020

According to industry experts International Expo-Consults (IEC), Masonlite and LG, digital signage offers huge opportunities for growth in the UAE and the MENA region. The digital signage market in this region is a very mature digital network. Unlike most industries where technology is being imported from the rest of the world, many digital signage strategies concept, designs and initiatives are coming from the region. IEC is the organizer of the largest signage, graphics and imaging exhibition in the MENA region – SGI Dubai.

According to Sunil Purushothaman, General Manager, Masonlite, “Digital Signage gives more mileage than static signs and therefore plays an important part in drawing the attention of the customers. Whether it is kiosks or wall screens, digital signage has such an impact on the viewer that, it leaves a long-lasting impression and conveys the message in a most effective manner. Digital signage uses less power compared to conventional signage and emits less pollutes. Digital signage powered by solar panels will be the ultimate achievement for the future”.

The global digital market size is expected to grow at a CAGR of 8.62% from 2018 to 2023 where it’s supposed to reach a total market size of US$34.710 billion.

“In the near future, the real world is slated to become more and more digital. People already spend a lot of time in the digital world and this will only increase as time goes on. In fact, the digital world will bleed into the real world more and more - a trend that we will see a lot this year. Thus, displays won’t just be used to advertise events but will become key components of those events. Geofencing and beacons will gain more traction and consumers will receive prompts to install apps in particular areas that will allow them to interact with the digital world around them. And this will, of course, impact digital signage as screens become more prevalent and not just for advertising purposes, but to enable brands to interact with their customers more effectively”, said Audai Altaie, Director, MEA B2B Integrated Solutions Sales Team, LG Electronics.

The increase in the retail vertical is attributed to the retailers’ preference of digital signage due to its versatility and ability to change what is being displayed on the signage without much effort in terms of time or money, thereby saving cost in the long run. Furthermore, the rise in digital advertising media, growing data centric information and analytics, and increasing expenditure on marketing are the other key factors driving the UAE and GCC digital signage market.

The 22nd edition of the SGI Dubai show will be held from January 13-15, 2019 in Hall 4,5,6,7, & 8 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

“The digital signage market is growing in the Middle East and is being driven primarily by the retail sector. This industry will gain a significant market share by 2020 due to its versatile nature and ease of use. The other verticals which enjoy the benefits of the technology include healthcare, F&B, tourism among others. In terms of technology the region has adopted the latest including virtual reality, augmented reality, mixed reality and artificial intelligence,” added Abdul Rahman Falaknaz, Chairman of International Expo Consults.

SGI Dubai 2019 is a one stop shop for the ever-growing needs for signage (digital and conventional), graphic imaging, retail POP/SOS, screen and digital printing industries. Recognised as one of the pioneers in the trade shows in the region for over two decades, SGI Dubai showcases the current trends and technologies to a robust platform which brings thousands every year to the annual show. Now in its 22nd edition, the exhibition will also host panel discussions and various competitions - Wall of Fame and Masters of Wrap during the 2019 show.