Latest news with #AhmedBinRakkadAlAmeri
Gulf Today
a day ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sharjah clears 167 titles under publishing, translation support programmes in 2025
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has announced the approval of 167 new titles under its specialised publishing and translation support programmes in 2025. The approved titles were selected from a total of 2,478 submissions received within four months since registration was open. These include 99 titles under the Translation Grant, 20 through the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur), and 48 titles directly supported by the SBA. The step demonstrates Sharjah's continued commitment to fostering translation, publishing, and knowledge exchange between Arabic and other global languages. These selected titles further SBA's achievements, raising the total number of approved titles to 2,405 across various fields and languages since the initiative's launch in 2011. These initiatives represent a cornerstone of SBA's strategy to support publishers, translators, and authors worldwide, creating an enabling environment for intellectual creativity and accelerating bilateral translation between Arabic and other languages. This contributes to expanding the presence of Arabic literature in global markets, while offering readers access to diverse human and intellectual experiences in multiple languages. Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the SBA, said, "In Sharjah, under the leadership of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, we believe that translation is a vital communication tool for connecting people and fostering understanding and being open to other cultures. "This belief drives us to continue growing our support for exceptional cultural and intellectual content through specialised programmes. At the forefront of these is our Translation Grant, which is given to titles worthy of global readership, in order to promote Arabic creativity to the world, while making international achievements accessible to Arab readers in their native language." Al Ameri added that under the directives of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the authority is committed to expanding its support programmes through initiatives that celebrate the most significant literary and intellectual works from around the world. Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publishing Services at SBA, commented, "The number of submitted applications this year is a clear indicator of the growing trust that global publishers place in our programmes. It reflects their recognition of the tangible value we bring to the translation and publishing sectors, not only in the UAE and the Arab world but globally." The SBA launched its Translation Grant in 2011 to support publishers worldwide in translating distinguished books into multiple languages. The grant offers up to $4,000 for general books and $1,500 for children's books, with special grants of up to $250,000 for translations from or into Arabic. The criteria include a formal translation contract, details of the translator, and copies of the final published edition. Eligible works include novels, biographies, cookbooks, poetry, and children's literature, given that they are under copyright protection. The Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur) aims to strengthen the publishing industry in the UAE by offering comprehensive support tailored to publishers' needs. The fund supports publishers' sustainability and growth, and boosts their journey into enriching the cultural landscape in the UAE through three core tracks, namely: Launch, Scale, and Disrupt. WAM
Gulf Today
6 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
SBA participates in San Diego conference
The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has achieved a series of strategic milestones during its participation in the American Library Association (ALA) Annual Conference, the world's largest gathering of library professionals, held in San Diego, USA. SBA reinforced Sharjah's global standing in the library sector by promoting its flagship international library events, launching new initiatives for children's content, expanding database collaborations and professional training, and exploring smart technologies for libraries in the UAE and wider region. Led by Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, the delegation held high-level talks with ALA President Sam Helmick. Discussions focused on enhancing the Sharjah International Library Conference and Sharjah School Libraries Conference, with a view to attracting more international experts and reinforcing their presence on the global calendar. SBA also highlighted its efforts to enrich Arabic-language children's literature and promote early literacy by partnering with US publishers and library networks, aiming to deliver diverse and culturally relevant content to Arab readers. Al Ameri said the participation reflects the vision of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, who placed libraries at the heart of the emirate's cultural mission. He added, 'Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, SBA is committed to building global partnerships across the knowledge sector, particularly in libraries, to foster international cooperation and knowledge exchange.' Eman Bushlaibi, Director of Sharjah Public Libraries, noted that the conference provided an opportunity to share Sharjah's century-long library journey and explore collaborations with US institutions keen to connect with knowledge centres across the Arab world. During the event, SBA met with leading companies including Baker & Taylor and Playaway to explore new interactive formats for children's books. It also discussed expanded digital database access and interactive training programmes with EBSCO, aimed at enhancing librarians' capabilities. The delegation further explored the latest smart systems and digital solutions with technology providers to upgrade library infrastructure and improve accessibility for researchers and the wider community. WAM
Khaleej Times
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
'Sharing Emirati identity': Sharjah showcases UAE literature at Rio International Book Fair
Sharjah is participating in the Rio International Book Fair 2025, presenting a range of Emirati and Arab literary works as part of efforts to strengthen cultural exchange with Latin America. The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) is showcasing Emirati literature translated into Portuguese and promoting Sharjah's role in the global publishing industry at the Rio International Book Fair 2025. The event, which runs until June 22, coincides with Rio de Janeiro's designation as UNESCO's World Book Capital for 2025 a title previously held by Sharjah in participation comes under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Through its pavilion, SBA is presenting works from the UAE and the Arab world, highlighting developments in literature, publishing, and cultural programming. The delegation is also engaging with international publishers, translators, and cultural institutions to explore opportunities for cooperation and translation. SBA CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri said the participation reflects the vision of Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who views culture as central to development. 'Sharjah's presence in Rio is about sharing Emirati identity while building stronger connections with Latin American cultural communities,' he said. As part of the book fair's programme, SBA organised a panel titled: " The heritage of Arab literature and Sharjah-led new literary movement", featuring Emirati authors whose works have been translated into Portuguese. These included Abdul Hamid Ahmad, Lulwah Al Mansouri, and Nasser Al Dhaheri. The session focused on Sharjah's role in supporting authors and encouraging new writing. The fair also featured a book signing ceremony for the translated titles, aimed at promoting Emirati literature to new audiences. SBA used the platform to introduce key cultural and publishing initiatives from the emirate, including the Sharjah International Book Fair, Sharjah Children's Reading Festival, and Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. Other programmes highlighted included the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur) and the Sharjah Literary Agency, which supports Arab authors and expands their international reach. The Sharjah pavilion also hosted the PublisHer initiative, founded by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi to support women in publishing. A selection of titles from Al Qasimi Publications and works from the Department of Culture were also on display. First held in 1983, the Rio International Book Fair is Brazil's largest literary event, attracting more than 600,000 visitors. Organised by the National Union of Book Publishers (SNEL), it serves as a key platform for exchanging ideas and promoting global literary dialogue.
Gulf Today
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Greece is Guest of Honour at 44th edition of Sharjah International Book Fair, says Sheikha Bodour
Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), emphasised that Greece, with its rich historical legacy and global cultural influence, stands as a vital pillar in the ongoing story of human creativity. She highlighted that the nation, which inspired Homer's epic works, shaped Socratic ideals of virtue, and erected theatres that continue to ignite artistic imagination, embodies a timeless source of knowledge and enlightenment for scholars, thinkers, and writers across centuries. Her remarks came during the signing ceremony announcing Greece as the Guest of Honour for the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF). The agreement was formalised by Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA; and Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of the Hellenic Republic. Dignitaries at the event. The signing took place at the Thessaloniki International Exhibition & Congress Centre in Greece. A place where the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue Sheikha Bodour said: 'Sharjah's cultural journey continues to be guided by the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. Today, the emirate carries this vision forward by embracing Greek culture. We believe flourishing civilisations are built on dialogue and exchange across geographical boundaries and Sharjah remains committed to this approach'. She added: 'Greece's participation at the upcoming Sharjah International Book Fair is an exciting opportunity for us all to discover the shared origins of our myths and tales, and other common influences that have shaped human consciousness'. She explained that SBA is working to ensure the 44th edition of SIBF becomes a milestone event, spotlighting a nation that, together with the Arab world, has helped shape the course of civilisation. The Chairperson concluded: 'Sharjah is reinterpreting the past as a tool for self-understanding and engagement with the broader world, and hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, just as we have done with those of Marrakech, Cordoba, Seoul, Rome, and other distinguished capitals at SIBF. Crowds at a previous edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. Hosting Greece as our Guest of Honour is a call to heed the voices of Athens, says Bodour. File With this, we continue to reinforce the book fair's role as a global platform where collective memory intersects, and the world's languages and cultures come together in dialogue.' An evolving intellectual dialogue at every edition of SIBF Commenting on the agreement, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'In line with His Highness's vision to champion global cultural exchange, hosting Greece as Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025 adds to the fair's distinguished record of international partnerships. It presents a unique opportunity to engage with one of the world's most influential civilisations, whose legacy continues to shape human thought. Each edition of the fair seeks to open new cultural horizons and foster meaningful intellectual exchange rooted in diversity.' Al Ameri added: 'SIBF has grown from a cultural event into a global hub for publishing and literary innovation, attracting publishers and thought leaders worldwide. "Guided by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's leadership, it has become a versatile knowledge platform that connects readers with authors, enriches the publishing industry, and reaffirms Sharjah's status among the world's leading international book fairs.' The cultural pathway between Greece and the UAE further enriched Yasonas Varthalitis, Deputy Minister of Culture of Greece, noted during the signing ceremony: 'We meet today in a spirit of friendship and collaboration that has long defined the relationship between Greece and the UAE. Our presence in Sharjah stems from the dedicated efforts of the Minister of Culture, who has worked to forge a strong foundation for cooperation and a vibrant cultural exchange linking Greece and the UAE. This path is enriched through language, literature, poetry, publications, events, exhibitions and a wide range of cultural initiatives.' He added: 'Our cultural cooperation with SIBF deepens the bond between our nations and peoples. We are curating a rich and engaging programme that showcases the depth of Greek literary and publishing talent, in line with Greece's broader vision of openness, development and expanding global engagement. We deeply thank SBA for its productive collaboration and look forward to building on this dynamic and inspiring partnership.' The best of Greek culture, literature, art and gastronomy at SIBF 2025 As Guest of Honour at the 44th SIBF, Greece will present a diverse programme of cultural and literary events highlighting its heritage's depth and richness. The line-up will span classical philosophy, theatre, poetry, contemporary literature, and visual arts. It will also host leading Greek authors, intellectuals, and publishers, as well as music and art performances inspired by Greek traditions. Educational segments will also spotlight major milestones in Greek cultural history and its enduring contributions to human civilisation.
Gulf Today
18-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Italy's Milan hosts festival of Arabic Language and Culture
Milan is serving as a crossroads for Arabic language and culture as the Italian city hosts the 8th edition of the International Festival of Arabic Language and Culture, sponsored by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Held under the theme 'The migrating tongue: Arabic without borders,' the four-day event showcases the language's worldwide influence, uniting 30 scholars, authors, and intellectuals from 18 nations to celebrate its role as a cultural bridge and a medium fostering cross-border dialogue. Organised by the Arabic Cultural Institute at the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, in collaboration with the Arabic Language Research Center, the 2025 edition of the festival launched with key figures including Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the SBA; Professor Giovanni Gobber, Dean of Linguistic Sciences and Foreign Literatures; and Professor Wael Farouq, the Institute's Director and the event's academic coordinator. Bringing together a distinguished group of literary and cultural figures from the Arab diaspora, the guests include Libyan author Ibrahim Al-Koni; Iraqi writers Sinan Antoon and Inaam Kachachi; Egyptian authors Ezzat El Kamhawi and May Telmissany; and Yemeni novelist Ali Al-Muqri. It also features leading experts in Arabic linguistics and language education, including Dr Mohamed Safi Al Mosteghanemi, Secretary-General of the Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah; and Zeinab Taha, Professor and Chairperson of the Arabic Language and Linguistics at the American University in Cairo. Adding further depth to the programme are acclaimed theatre directors and playwrights, including Ahmed Fawzi Saleh and Saleh Zamanan, as well as prominent literary critics and academics, including Francesca Corrao, Professor of Arabic Culture and Language at Luiss University Rome, and renowned literary critic, Subhi Hadidi. During his keynote speech, Al Ameri delivered greetings from His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to the attendees. He noted that the festival's theme underscores Arabic's timeless journey as a language anchored in its origins yet fundamental in shaping global civilisation, channelling knowledge and scientific thought from East to West, and from the Arabian Peninsula across Europe. 'As we gather today, we are reminded of a journey that began more than a thousand years ago, when the physician Constantine the African travelled to Italy carrying Arabic medical texts. This marked the beginning of a new chapter, where Arabic became a gateway to previously unknown sciences. That legacy continues to this day, embodied in the vision of His Highness the Ruler of Sharjah, who consistently affirms that language is not just a means of communication, but a vessel of culture and a bridge to mutual understanding,' Al Ameri stated. 'His Highness's commitment to Arabic is a firmly held belief, reflected in ongoing cultural projects that promote both the language and global engagement. SBA's festival sponsorship continues that vision, which sees cultural exchange as essential to progress. In Sharjah, we believe that civilisation is not the product of one language or one place, but a collective human achievement, shaped and sustained by diverse peoples, languages, and ideas,' the SBA CEO noted. For his part, Dr. Wael Farouq said: 'We are witnessing a new phase in the journey of the Arabic language as it moves beyond its traditional geographic and cultural boundaries. This development merits thoughtful examination, which is why the Institute of Arabic Culture has dedicated this year's conference to bringing together a distinguished group of Arab and Western intellectuals and academics to explore the phenomenon.' He continued by saying, 'Over the past two decades, rising migration from the Arab world to the West has reshaped the relationship between the two cultures. Arabic language and literature occupy a more central role, with millions of migrants becoming bilingual and many Arab writers in the diaspora producing works in European languages. This has given rise to a new wave of diaspora literature, reminiscent of the early 20th century. At the same time, we are seeing significant growth in teaching modern Arabic and studying its contemporary literature at universities across the West.'
