Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, the Founder and Honorary President of the Emirates Publishing Association (EPA), has introduced the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshor / Publish). This initiative, developed by EPA and Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) in cooperation with the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone), is a AED 10-million fund designed to provide a holistic support system for the publishing industry. The fund includes financial backing, specialised knowledge, business acceleration opportunities, and aims to foster innovation within the sector.
Tcommemorating the 15th anniversary of the EPA and its renowned efforts to advance the publishing sector in the UAE. The event was graced by numerous publishers and representatives from prominent cultural organisations, recognising and appreciating its outstanding partners in the knowledge industry.
In her speech during the ceremony, Bodour Al Qasimi said, “This evening, we gather not just to celebrate the 15th anniversary of the EPA but also to commemorate the extraordinary path of perseverance that began from humble beginnings with a defined vision and boundless ambition. This journey started with a small group of publishers united by grand dreams, aspirations and expectations. The onset was undeniably challenging, yet as the saying goes, ‘the journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.’ Despite the initial hurdles, our inspiring journey was filled with experiences, transformations, and obstacles that tested our resolve.”
“As we celebrate the 15th anniversary of EPA’s establishment, we are fully aware that our mission is far from over and that we are entering a new phase of expansion and prosperity. This requires more concerted efforts to be able to write a new chapter of growth and excellence in the next 15 years to come. On this occasion, I am delighted to announce a new initiative that seeks to support Emirati publishers, the ‘Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund’ (Onshor / Publish), a strategic initiative that will contribute greatly to supporting publishers and developing the publishing industry in the UAE,” she added.
The Founder of the EPA urged all publishers in the UAE to intensify their efforts in advancing the Emirati book industry. She encouraged them to embrace innovation in their business strategies and to broaden their collaborations with publishing professionals globally to enhance the industry’s growth and evolution.
During the ceremony Bodour Al Qasimi also honoured the partners who have contributed to EPA’s success, including the Sharjah Book Authority; the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone; UAE Media Council; Ministry of Culture and Youth; Emirates Writers Union; Emirates Libraries and Information Association; Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Center; as well as Emirates Library and Information Center. Additionally, recognition was extended to the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), Ministry of Community Development, and the Emirates Intellectual Property Association for their support through the years.
The EPA also paid tribute to the late Ali bin Hatem, a prominent figure in Emirati publishing and former president of the EPA, acknowledging his contributions to the local publishing scene and the association’s journey from its inception. During the event, the EPA presented the ‘Success Partner Cup’ to Hatem’s family to honour his memory, and showcased a short film highlighting his achievements in the Emirati and Arab publishing sectors.
