Emirates Publishers Association, Sharjah Book Authority Launch Region’s First ‘Publishers Exchange Programme’
Sharjah: In a landmark move for the regional publishing industry, the Emirates Publishers Association (EPA), in collaboration with the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), has announced the launch of the Publishers Exchange Programme— the first initiative of its kind in the Arab region.
The programme seeks to foster knowledge exchange and professional partnerships between Emirati publishers and their international counterparts, while linking major local book fairs with global fellowship programmes. It aims to enhance the sustainability of the UAE’s publishing sector and strengthen its global footprint.
The initiative was unveiled on the sidelines of the 15th International Publishers Conference, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority ahead of the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025.
Bridging Local and Global Publishing Communities
The Publishers Exchange Programme is designed to address challenges faced by Emirati publishers in joining international fellowship programmes and expanding their participation in global cultural events. It will provide exclusive opportunities for training, workshops, and exchange initiatives, in addition to facilitating strategic partnerships with international publishing bodies.
Under the programme, the EPA will work closely with publishers’ associations in various countries to secure participation for Emirati publishers in book fairs, fellowships, and related professional gatherings. In return, the Association will allocate dedicated slots for international publishers to take part in the International Publishers Conference, in collaboration with SBA.
Sustainable Vision for the UAE’s Publishing Future
Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, said the initiative reflects the Association’s ongoing commitment—under the leadership of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the EPA—to building a sustainable and progressive publishing future for the UAE.
“This initiative reinforces our efforts to enrich Arabic cultural content and foster stronger cooperation between Emirati and international publishers. It supports our goal of positioning the UAE as a regional and global hub for the publishing industry,” Al Kous said.
He noted that the programme rests on three key pillars — rights exchange, professional empowerment, and global presence — with the aim of boosting the translation and circulation of Emirati literature. Through professional platforms and fellowship opportunities, the programme will facilitate the sale and purchase of book rights and translations between Emirati and global publishers.
Al Kous added that the structured initiative will initially focus on key publishing markets in East Asia, South America, and Europe, with plans for gradual expansion and regular evaluation to include more publishers and professional collaborations each year.
Sharjah’s Global Publishing Vision
Mansour Al Hassani, Director of Publishing Services at the Sharjah Book Authority, described the programme as a “strategic step towards building lasting professional bridges between Emirati publishers and their peers worldwide.”
“It opens wider avenues for rights exchange and joint publishing, embodying Sharjah’s vision to empower the local publishing sector and strengthen its engagement with global markets,” Al Hassani said.
He added that the development of the publishing industry depends on “collaboration and the sharing of expertise,” noting that the new programme provides “a practical platform for real professional growth” for Emirati publishers.
“We are confident this will mark a qualitative leap in the international presence of Emirati publishers and further solidify Sharjah’s position as a central hub in the global publishing movement,” he said.
Expanding Global Opportunities
The Publishers Exchange Programme is expected to significantly boost the sale and purchase of translation and publishing rights, creating pathways for Emirati publishers to participate in major international fellowship programmes.
Participants will be selected through a rigorous evaluation process, ensuring that the programme supports outstanding national talent and propels Emirati publishing professionals toward greater global recognition.