Bologna Children’s Book Fair showcases Emirati literature
Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) participated in the 60th edition of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair in Bologna 2023 to strengthen its participation in local and international cultural events and promote the UAE’s publishing industry.
At its special pavilion, the association exhibited a variety of books authored and translated for children, including literary, scientific, and educational titles. Emirati publishers, such as Aisha Al-Zaabi from Dar Al-Dhabi for Publishing, Nour Arab from Dar Al-Nour for Publishing, and Abdullah Al-Kaabi from Dar Al-Ramsa Publishing, are participated.
Additionally, the association facilitated meetings between its representatives, Arab and international publishers, and intellectuals. These meetings aim to exchange expertise in the publishing industry, foster communication between Emirati and international publishers, and assist those interested in establishing publishing companies in Arab markets.
The Emirates Publishers Association is also participated in the ‘BolognaBookPlus’ activities, which offers in-depth training on rights selling, author representation and scouting. Through its stand there, the association gives Emirati publishers a wider platform to trade books with general publishers beyond children’s books.
Rashid Al-Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, said: “Our association’s participation in the 60th session of the Bologna Children’s Book Fair is part of our ongoing efforts to strengthen the presence of Emirati publishing houses in major international book fairs. We aim to promote our work and expand our strategic relationships with international peers to foster interaction between different cultures and human civilisations. Additionally, we aim to learn about the most important international experiences in producing children’s books.”
In a new initiative aimed at supporting the participation of Emirati publishing houses in local and international book fairs while keeping pace with the latest technologies, the association allowed its member houses not physically present at the exhibition to display their publications remotely. This can be done using QR codes, which allow for the conclusion of purchase and sale deals of publishing rights. Through this initiative, exhibition visitors can scan these codes and view the publications of 25 Emirati publishing houses, as well as remotely initiating deals with Emirati publishers and helping promote and spread Emirati content globally. This effort is part of the association’s ongoing efforts to introduce the publishing movement and the book industry in the United Arab Emirates.
