Emirates Publishers Association Enhances Global Partnerships At Frankfurt International Book Fair 2024

The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) has bolstered ties between UAE publishing houses and international counterparts. This aligns with its mission to support and advance the UAE's publishing sector. The association took part in the 76th Frankfurt International Book Fair, a major global publishing event that began on 16th October and concluded recently.

Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the EPA, highlighted the importance of attending the Frankfurt International Book Fair 2024. He stated that this year's focus was on creating strategic collaboration opportunities for Emirati publishers. This involved organising meetings, networking events, and sessions on buying and selling publishing rights, as well as translations involving Arabic.

Al Kous explained, "Through this approach, the EPA aimed to enrich the experiences of Emirati publishers, connect them with their international counterparts, promote Emirati literature, and facilitate the circulation of its publishing and translation rights. Our efforts in Frankfurt played a crucial role in consolidating the presence of Emirati books in global markets and elevating the Emirati publishing industry’s position on the international cultural stage."

The association's stand at the fair featured a delegation of Emirati publishers. Notable participants included Fatma Al Khatib from Sidra Publishing Services, Abdul Wahed Alwani from Dar Al Muheet Publishing House, representatives from Kalimat Group, and Aldhabi Almheiri from Rainbow Chimney Library and Publishing House. Aldhabi is recognised as the youngest publisher of bilingual books globally.

Participating publishers noted that the Frankfurt International Book Fair served as a vital platform to engage with key industry figures. It allowed them to showcase their work, explore partnership opportunities, and gain wider media exposure. The event attracts publishers, authors, literary agents, translators, and media professionals worldwide.

The EPA's collective stand at the exhibition displayed 40 titles from its members' latest releases. Each book featured a QR code offering an English summary and contact details for the publishing house. This initiative supported local writers by facilitating rights sales for Emirati books.

The fair provided an ideal setting to highlight initiatives and achievements of Emirati publishing houses. It also showcased progress within the UAE's publishing sector. By participating in such events, Emirati publishers can connect with global players and enhance their presence internationally.

This participation underscores EPA's commitment to promoting Emirati literature globally while supporting local writers and publishers through strategic partnerships.

With inputs from WAM