First Saudi Women’s Publishing House Showcases Talent At Riyadh International Book Fair 2024

The Madhamin Publishing and Distribution House, the first Saudi women’s publishing house, has taken part in the Riyadh International Book Fair 2024. This event, themed "Riyadh Reads," provided a platform for emerging Saudi female writers to publish and display their works. The fair offered a unique cultural experience for these writers, allowing them to engage with a broader audience.

Founder Ebtisam Al-Tuwaijri shared her journey with the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), explaining how her career transitioned from law to publishing. Her involvement began during an international publishing training initiative in London in 2023. Within three days of attending, she decided to establish Madhamin Publishing and Distribution House. "The initiative allowed me to immerse myself in the world of publishing and the visions of publishers, and things unfolded without planning. On the third day of the initiative, I completed the commercial registration procedures for Madhamin Publishing and Distribution House," Al-Tuwaijri said.

Al-Tuwaijri also participated in the "Publishing Business Accelerator" initiative by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission. Winning this award significantly propelled her publishing house's launch. She expressed gratitude towards the commission for its role in easing procedures for publishing and translation houses and engaging with women's expertise. The commission's support was instrumental in her success as a literary agent.

The Madhamin house is showcasing ten publications at the book fair. It has secured translation rights for several books across different languages. These include two series: one with seven volumes and another with four volumes. Additionally, they have acquired philosophical works in Russian alongside critical writings and novels from various languages.

The establishment of Madhamin Publishing marks a significant step forward for Saudi women in literature. By providing opportunities for new writers to publish their work, it empowers them within the cultural landscape. The publishing house's participation at such events highlights its commitment to fostering literary talent among Saudi women.

Al-Tuwaijri acknowledged that winning the "Publishing Business Accelerator" award was crucial for her venture's growth. This recognition enabled her participation as a literary agent in the first book production support initiative. Her achievements underscore how supportive initiatives can help women enter and thrive in traditionally male-dominated fields like publishing.

The Riyadh International Book Fair serves as an important venue for cultural exchange and literary promotion. Through events like these, emerging writers gain exposure while established publishers expand their reach globally. Such platforms are vital for nurturing creativity within Saudi Arabia’s evolving literary scene.

With inputs from SPA