Sharjah Launches ‘From Page To Screen’ Initiative For Adapting Arabic Literature Into Film And Television

The Sharjah Literary Agency (SLA) has joined forces with Cedars Art Production, supported by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), to launch 'From Page to Screen'. This initiative aims to adapt notable Arabic literary works into television and film. The agreement was signed during the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025) by Tamer Saeed, Lama Sadeq Sabbah, and Khoula Al Mujaini.

Under this collaboration, SLA will manage the project's legal and professional framework. Initially, five literary works will be nominated. The agency will provide summaries and rights documentation to Cedars Art Production and handle agreements between authors and producers. Additionally, SLA will oversee training programmes for participating writers.

This project aligns with Sharjah's cultural vision of expanding Arabic literature's reach through visual media. It aims to connect publishers, writers, and producers to create authentic screen adaptations rooted in literary excellence. By doing so, it strengthens the role of Arab creatives on global platforms.

Cedars Art Production will focus on the creative aspects of the project. They will assess the adaptability of nominated works, appoint scriptwriters and directors, and participate in training workshops. Their team will also offer artistic consultancy and promote selected projects at later stages.

SBA serves as the institutional sponsor, overseeing overall management while providing media and logistical support. They plan to integrate events and workshops within their cultural calendar. Furthermore, SBA will nominate award-winning or shortlisted literary works for potential adaptation.

Tamer Said highlighted that this initiative reflects Sharjah’s dedication to transforming literature into a multi-platform creative force. He stated: "This project opens new horizons for Arab literature." He added that managing rights and training ensures adaptations maintain authenticity while meeting international standards.

Enhancing Regional Creative Economy

Khoula Al Mujaini noted that 'From Page to Screen' showcases Sharjah’s investment in the regional creative economy. She said: "Through this collaboration...the emirate presents an Arab model of a cultural ecosystem capable of producing diverse, sustainable content." She emphasized its role in elevating Arab creatives on the international stage.

Lama Sabbah expressed pride in this partnership as a synergy between Arab expertise in literature and drama. She stressed that it paves the way for productions conveying Arabic literature's human depth through a globally resonant visual language.

This initiative marks a significant step towards integrating publishing with drama production in the Arab world. By bringing Arabic storytelling to wider audiences through visual media, it reinforces Sharjah's leadership in expanding publishing into cinema and visual arts.

With inputs from WAM