Emirati Publishers Forum Organised By Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre Supports Local Publishing Industry

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) and the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) recently hosted the second Emirati Publishers Forum at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. This event is part of ALC's ongoing efforts to bolster the local publishing industry and support Emirati publishers. The forum marked the launch of the first initiative under the Centre’s Sustainable Reading Campaign, aligning with National Reading Month under the theme ‘UAE Reads’.

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of ALC, attended the event where Emirati publishers received the Digital Book category of the ‘Spotlight on Rights’ grant for 2025. This initiative aims to enrich Arabic digital libraries with high-quality local publications, reflecting UAE leadership's commitment to nurturing creative talent within the Emirati community.

Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of ALC and Director of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF), participated in the forum alongside Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of EPA, and 50 Emirati publishers. These publishers specialise in literature, thought, sciences, children’s books, digital and audio publishing, and copyright.

The forum underscored ALC’s dedication to supporting Emirati publishers and promoting Arabic-language content creation. Discussions included ALC’s publishing projects at both local and international levels and upcoming initiatives for the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair scheduled from 26th April to 5th May 2025.

Participants were informed about ALC’s key programmes, latest publications, and available funding opportunities such as grants and awards. Al Tunaiji stated that ALC is committed to enhancing Emirati publishers' standing by providing support that ensures their strong presence in regional and international cultural events.

Al Tunaiji explained that ALC aims to advance the publishing sector through innovative projects aligned with its strategic vision to strengthen Arabic language use. During ADIBF, 500 grants will be offered under ‘Spotlight on Rights’ to support Emirati publishers transitioning towards e-book and audiobook formats.

Empowering Cultural Growth

Al Tunaiji added that awards overseen by ALC will offer creators opportunities to enrich cultural landscapes through impactful projects reflecting UAE's advanced cultural stature. Rashid Al Kous praised ALC’s commitment to empowering Emirati publishers and supporting local content production.

Al Kous expressed appreciation for operating under a government framework keen on supporting publishing industries. He noted that this ensures Emirati books serve as ambassadors for UAE and broader Arab culture. The forum highlighted preparations for ADIBF focusing on initiatives engaging Emirati publishers.

The discussions explored how Emirati publishers contribute to developing Arabic content industries while promoting cultural awareness in line with UAE’s designation of 2025 as ‘Year of Community’.

With inputs from WAM