Onshur Launches Disrupt Track To Integrate AI And Technology In Arab Publishing

The Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund, known as Onshur, has introduced the 'Disrupt' track. This initiative, led by H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, aims to connect global tech firms with the Arab publishing sector. The goal is to foster innovation and redefine how content and technology interact within this industry.

Applications are open for established companies offering scalable technologies that meet specific criteria. These solutions must operate securely on cloud-based systems and be relevant to publishing and content industries. Submissions will be judged on their readiness, efficiency improvements, and potential for regional and international expansion.

The Disrupt track seeks to incorporate artificial intelligence and advanced technologies into Arabic publishing. It invites global tech companies to present practical solutions in areas like editing, translation, marketing, and AI-driven animation. These innovations aim to enhance the publishing ecosystem significantly.

This initiative also supports Sharjah's vision of becoming a regional hub for publishing technologies. It aligns with the emirate's goal of developing an innovation-driven, knowledge-based publishing sector. By doing so, it aims to elevate Sharjah's status in the global publishing arena.

Selected companies will benefit from operational licences at Sharjah Publishing City. They will also receive office space, access to investment opportunities, and direct support from Onshur’s network. This support is designed to help them enter local and regional markets more effectively.

Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of strategic initiatives at SBA, stated that the Disrupt track offers tech firms a chance to test their solutions in the Arab market. The focus is on deploying proven technologies in real business environments to achieve measurable success within the Arab publishing ecosystem.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, highlighted the emirate's commitment to becoming a global centre for publishing under the guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. He noted that the Disrupt track invests in leading tech ventures offering advanced solutions for the industry.

Al Ameri further explained that this initiative creates new collaboration opportunities with top tech developers worldwide. It sets the stage for a new generation of tech-driven creators who will strengthen the Arab publishing sector and promote Arabic culture globally.

The registration for the Disrupt track begins on 15th October and runs until 31st December, coinciding with the Frankfurt International Book Fair. Following this period, interviews and evaluations will occur from January to February 2026.

The announcement of shortlisted projects is scheduled during the fourth Sharjah International Distribution Conference in 2026. This event marks a significant milestone in advancing technology integration within the Arab publishing industry.

This initiative represents a long-term investment platform within Onshur Fund aimed at creating sustainable partnerships between tech solutions and Arab publishers. By fostering these collaborations, it seeks to drive innovation across cultural sectors while promoting Arabic culture globally.

With inputs from WAM