Latest news with #EmiratesPublishersAssociation
Gulf Today
23-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
UAE strengthens global publishing ties in Beijing
Represented by a distinguished selection of established and emerging publishing houses, the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is participating in the 2025 edition of the Beijing International Book Fair, shining a spotlight on the UAE's experience in developing its publishing industry, particularly in the fields of children's literature and innovative educational content. This participation in Asia's largest copyrights exchange platform, and the second largest book fair in the world, reflects the EPA's ongoing commitment to empowering Emirati publishers, expanding opportunities for international collaboration, and strengthening the UAE's presence on the global publishing stage. The EPA's stand at the fair serves as a vibrant window into the UAE's dynamic publishing landscape, showcasing a unique blend of seasoned expertise and emerging voices in children's literature and educational publishing. Among the participants are publishers who graduated from the 'Onshur' programme—an initiative launched to empower the next generation of publishing entrepreneurs in the UAE by empowering them with professional and technical support. Featured publishers include Hamda Al Baloushi, Manager of Aalamkom Publishing and Distribution, and Treasurer and Board Member of the EPA, Salim Abdulrahman, Managing Director of AlRewaya Publishing, and Ghassan Rabih, representative of Dar Rabie Publishing. Representing the 'Onshur' graduates are Dr. Asmaa Emara, Founder of Dal for Publishing, a publishing house dedicated to innovative approaches to Arabic language education, and Fatema Al Hammadi, Founder of Sohub Publishing and Distribution, which specialises in educational content for people of determination and students with autism. Running from June 18-22, the Association's programme at the fair features a series of high-level events uniting content creators and publishing professionals from the UAE and China. A key event on the agenda is the 2025 Global Children's Book Forum, centred on the theme 'Integrated Innovation in Children's Books Amid New Realities.' Through this platform, the Association highlighted UAE's pioneering contributions to the global book industry, particularly in advancing children's publishing and fostering a culture of reading among young minds. The event agenda also features a panel discussion titled 'Nurturing Young Minds: Children's Publishing Priorities in the UAE and China,' with participation from publishers, Hamda Al Baloushi and Ghassan Rabih, alongside a group of distinguished Chinese children's publishers. Commenting on the Association's participation, Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the EPA, emphasised that the EPA's presence at major international book fairs represents a strategic opportunity for copyrights exchange, expanding professional networks, and exploring new markets for Emirati and Arabic content. He stated, 'This year, we placed special focus on the UAE's experience in children's publishing—a field that conveys universal messages with a distinctly local spirit, led by young publishers who possess clear vision and genuine passion. By empowering them, we are laying the foundation for a new generation that embodies innovation and authenticity.' He further noted, 'Our participation in the Beijing International Book Fair is an extension of the UAE's broader vision to support creative industries—particularly publishing—as a vital tool for knowledge dissemination and cultural dialogue. Each international platform is an opportunity to project our cultural voice globally and to showcase the wealth of creative potential that the UAE holds. The presence of 'Onshur' graduates at an event of this calibre sends a clear message: the youth are a powerful force shaping the future of Emirati publishing.' Publisher Hamda Al Baloushi described her participation as a significant milestone in her professional journey, highlighting the opportunity it provided for engagement and exchange with publishers from around the world. She added that it had opened new avenues for collaboration and copyrights exchange, particularly in the Asian market. WAM
Mid East Info
21-06-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
UAE Strengthens Global Publishing Ties at Beijing International Book Fair - Middle East Business News and Information
Represented by a distinguished selection of established and emerging publishing houses, the Emirates Publishers Association EPA is participating in the 2025 edition of the Beijing International Book Fair, shining a spotlight on the UAE's experience in developing its publishing industry—particularly in the fields of children's literature and innovative educational content. This participation in Asia's largest copyrights exchange platform—and the second largest book fair in the world—reflects the EPA's ongoing commitment to empowering Emirati publishers, expanding opportunities for international collaboration, and strengthening the UAE's presence on the global publishing stage. Showcasing Diversity and Vision: The EPA's stand at the fair serves as a vibrant window into the UAE's dynamic publishing landscape, showcasing a unique blend of seasoned expertise and emerging voices in children's literature and educational publishing. Among the participants are publishers who graduated from the 'Onshur' programme—an initiative launched to empower the next generation of publishing entrepreneurs in the UAE by empowering them with professional and technical support. Featured publishers include Hamda Al Baloushi, Manager of Aalamkom Publishing and Distribution, and Treasurer and Board Member of the EPA, Salim Abdulrahman, Managing Director of AlRewaya Publishing, and Ghassan Rabih, representative of Dar Rabie Publishing. Representing the 'Onshur' graduates are Dr. Asmaa Emara, Founder of Dal for Publishing, a publishing house dedicated to innovative approaches to Arabic language education, and Fatema Al Hammadi, Founder of Sohub Publishing and Distribution, which specialises in educational content for people of determination and students with autism. Bridging Culture Through Publishing: Running from 18 to 22 June, the Association's programme at the fair features a series of high-level events uniting content creators and publishing professionals from the UAE and China. A key event on the agenda is the 2025 Global Children's Book Forum, centred on the theme 'Integrated Innovation in Children's Books Amid New Realities.' Through this platform, the Association highlighted UAE's pioneering contributions to the global book industry, particularly in advancing children's publishing and fostering a culture of reading among young minds. The event agenda also features a panel discussion titled 'Nurturing Young Minds: Children's Publishing Priorities in the UAE and China,' with participation from publishers, Hamda Al Baloushi and Ghassan Rabih, alongside a group of distinguished Chinese children's publishers. Global Messages with a Local Spirit: Commenting on the Association's participation, His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the EPA, emphasised that the EPA's presence at major international book fairs represents a strategic opportunity for copyrights exchange, expanding professional networks, and exploring new markets for Emirati and Arabic content. He stated: 'This year, we placed special focus on the UAE's experience in children's publishing—a field that conveys universal messages with a distinctly local spirit, led by young publishers who possess clear vision and genuine passion. By empowering them, we are laying the foundation for a new generation that embodies innovation and authenticity.' His Excellency further noted: 'Our participation in the Beijing International Book Fair is an extension of the UAE's broader vision to support creative industries—particularly publishing—as a vital tool for knowledge dissemination and cultural dialogue. Each international platform is an opportunity to project our cultural voice globally and to showcase the wealth of creative potential that the UAE holds. The presence of 'Onshur' graduates at an event of this calibre sends a clear message: the youth are a powerful force shaping the future of Emirati publishing.' Publisher Hamda Al Baloushi described her participation as a significant milestone in her professional journey, highlighting the opportunity it provided for engagement and exchange with publishers from around the world. She added that it had opened new avenues for collaboration and copyrights exchange, particularly in the Asian market. She said: 'Our presence here not only reflects the quality of Emirati content, but also the prominent status that the UAE publishing sector has achieved on the global stage. I am proud to be part of this movement and to represent the UAE at one of the world's most important cultural events.' Ongoing Efforts: Through its active presence at prestigious international cultural events such as this, the EPA continues to advance its long-term strategic goals—chief among them being the development of the UAE's publishing ecosystem. This is achieved by connecting Emirati publishers with global networks, encouraging content export, and reinforcing the UAE's position as a dynamic hub in the international publishing industry.
Gulf Today
17-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
EPA firm on sustainable publishing industry
The Board of the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) held its second meeting of its ninth term, reviewing a number of key agenda items that reflect the Association's commitment to enhancing the sustainability of the UAE's publishing sector and strengthening its position both regionally and globally. By empowering local publishers, they are opening doors to new avenues for them in international markets. The meeting commenced with the approval of the minutes from the General Assembly and the previous Board meeting, paving the way for discussions on the Association's key achievements over the past period. The Board reviewed EPA's most significant milestones in 2024 and the first half of 2025, in addition to examining the action plan for the second half of the current year and upcoming cultural participations in international book fairs - most notably the Beijing International Book Fair. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the growth and prosperity of the national publishing sector and solidifying its sustainability by empowering Emirati publishers, establishing direct channels with relevant global institutions and organisations, as well as exploring opportunities for joint cooperation. It also emphasised the importance of building literary bridges with publishers around the world through direct meetings focused on the sale and acquisition of publishing and translation rights. The Board underscored its dedication to continuing the cultural journey led by the Emirates Publishers Association since its inception. Commenting on the outcomes of the meeting, Amira Bukadra, President of the EPA Board, said: 'This meeting served as a strategic milestone in shaping the next phase of our efforts, through which we aspire to expand the reach of Emirati cultural influence across the global publishing landscape and further develop the sector in ways that positively contribute to the growth of the UAE's creative economy - a key pillar of the nation's vision for a more diversified and sustainable future. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to continuing our work in line with the guidance of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the EPA, whose determination and innovation inspire every step we take to enrich the national cultural scene. Her leadership continues to motivate us to build upon our achievements and explore new pathways to strengthen the global competitiveness and impact of Emirati publishers.' WAM
Zawya
16-06-2025
- Business
- Zawya
EPA Board holds second meeting
Sharjah – The Board of the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) held its second meeting of its ninth term, reviewing a number of key agenda items that reflect the Association's commitment to enhancing the sustainability of the UAE's publishing sector and strengthening its position both regionally and globally. By empowering local publishers, they are opening doors to new avenues for them in international markets. The meeting commenced with the approval of the minutes from the General Assembly and the previous Board meeting, paving the way for discussions on the Association's key achievements over the past period. The Board reviewed EPA's most significant milestones in 2024 and the first half of 2025, in addition to examining the action plan for the second half of the current year and upcoming cultural participations in international book fairs — most notably the Beijing International Book Fair. The Board reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the growth and prosperity of the national publishing sector and solidifying its sustainability by empowering Emirati publishers, establishing direct channels with relevant global institutions and organisations, as well as exploring opportunities for joint cooperation. It also emphasised the importance of building literary bridges with publishers around the world through direct meetings focused on the sale and acquisition of publishing and translation rights. The Board underscored its dedication to continuing the cultural journey led by the Emirates Publishers Association since its inception. Commenting on the outcomes of the meeting, Amira Bukadra, President of the EPA Board, said: 'This meeting served as a strategic milestone in shaping the next phase of our efforts, through which we aspire to expand the reach of Emirati cultural influence across the global publishing landscape and further develop the sector in ways that positively contribute to the growth of the UAE's creative economy — a key pillar of the nation's vision for a more diversified and sustainable future. In this context, we reaffirm our commitment to continuing our work in line with the guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the EPA, whose determination and innovation inspire every step we take to enrich the national cultural scene. Her leadership continues to motivate us to build upon our achievements and explore new pathways to strengthen the global competitiveness and impact of Emirati publishers'.
Gulf Today
15-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
EPA expands its international network
As part of a strategic vision to strengthen international cooperation and enhance the UAE's presence in global publishing, the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is expanding its international network through key participation in major cultural events in Latin America. Beginning with the Buenos Aires International Book Fair and continuing with a series of high-profile literary and professional gatherings in Rio de Janeiro-UNESCO's World Book Capital for 2025-these efforts reflect the UAE's growing role in global publishing and its commitment to building cultural bridges. In June 2025, the Association is undertaking a broad programme of activities in Brazil. Its delegation is participating in four major publishing events in Rio de Janeiro, including the Rio International Book Fair (13-22 June), the largest literary public event in Latin America. Other engagements include the 6th Professional Journey, the Rio International Publishers Summit and the PublisHer Summit, which champions women in publishing leadership. This comes as UNESCO recognises Rio under the theme 'Rio de Janeiro Continues to Read.' During the 6th Professional Journey, organised by the Brazilian Book Chamber, the EPA-represented by Amira BuKdara, co-founder of Ghaf Publishing and Library and President of the EPA Board-is taking part in a meeting that offers Emirati publishers opportunities to engage with buyers and professionals in the Portuguese-speaking market. The programme includes discussions on rights exchange and translation. The EPA is also attending the Rio International Publishers Summit, organised by the Brazilian National Syndicate of Book Publishers, which brings together global experts to explore publishing technologies, audiobooks, reading promotion and women's empowerment. The delegation is additionally taking part in the PublisHer Summit, which features panel discussions with female publishing leaders across generations, highlighting success stories and the challenges facing women in the industry. The visit to Brazil follows a successful participation in the Buenos Aires International Book Fair 2025 (22 April-12 May), where Riyadh was the Guest of Honour. In Argentina, the EPA held strategic meetings with stakeholders in the cultural and publishing sectors, including representatives from the Fair's Board of Directors, publishing associations and officials from the Ministries of Foreign Affairs and Culture. The meetings explored opportunities for greater cultural exchange and mutual participation in international initiatives. WAM
