News DeskSharjah, UAE – The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) is playing an active role in the 2023 Sharjah International Book Fair, the premier literary event in the Arab world, hosted at the Expo Centre Sharjah until 12 November. With a theme of ‘We Speak Book,’ the EPA’s pavilion is a hub for 36 member publishers, showcasing an impressive collection of 450 titles spanning various genres.
The EPA is using this platform to showcase 7,000 books through its innovative Menassah platform, aiming to promote knowledge dissemination, foster a love for reading in the UAE and the broader region, increase the circulation of member publishers’ works, boost sales, and open up new avenues for business development.
Emirati Publisher Grant The EPA is hosting a series of discussion sessions during the book fair, targeting publishers and attendees. One of the key topics covered in an inaugural session on 2 November is the ‘Emirati Publisher Grant,’ which is focused on books specializing in the library field. This grant was established through a collaborative agreement between the Emirates Publishers Association and the Emirates Libraries and Information Association in May of this year.
Arabic and Korean Young Adult Literature In recognition of South Korea as the guest of honor at this year’s fair, the EPA is actively involved in a session titled ‘Exploring Arabic and Korean Young Adult Literature.’ This session explores the world of Arab and Korean young adult literature and features participants such as AlAnoud Ali, Projects Manager at EPA; Lina Chebaro, Copyright Manager at Thaqafa For Publishing And Distribution; South Korean author Hwang Seon-mi; and Beatrice YongIn Lin, literary agent for MatchWHALE in South Korea. They will delve into how Arab and Korean literature enriches the culture of reading among young people, addressing various aspects of this literary realm.
His Excellency Abdullah Al Kaabi’s Statement His Excellency Abdullah Al Kaabi, President of the Emirates Publishers Association Board, highlighted that the EPA’s participation in the exhibition is part of a series of initiatives aimed at showcasing the development of the Emirati publishing sector. This initiative seeks to enhance the presence of local publishers at both domestic and international exhibitions and cultural events, fostering new opportunities for collaboration with renowned Arab and international publishers. These interactions also facilitate discussions on potential partnerships for the exchange of copyrights and translations to and from Arabic.
He emphasized the EPA’s commitment to participating in this significant cultural event on an annual basis, aligning with the broader cultural vision of the Emirate of Sharjah initiated by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammad Al Qasimi. This vision seeks to solidify Sharjah’s status as a hub for cross-cultural exchange and dialogue among diverse global cultures.
The Sharjah International Book Fair 2023 From November 1 to 12, the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair is welcoming 108 Arab and global countries, represented by 2,033 publishers and exhibitors, showcasing an impressive 1.5 million titles. This year’s exhibition also boasts a diverse program of 1,700 events catering to all age groups and interests. Notably, the fair is celebrating South Korea as its guest of honor to highlight its rich knowledge and cultural landscape in the realms of literature, art, and technology.
