Latest news with #30thRabatInternationalPublishingandBookFair
Gulf Today
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Authors urge more child-centred storytelling in Arabic kids' lit
RABAT: Literary experts from the UAE and Morocco have urged a move away from adult-centric perspectives in the creation of children's books, calling instead for storytelling rooted in an understanding of children's emotional and psychological worlds. This was the central message of a dialogue titled 'The aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan children's books', organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati author Fatima Al Ameri and Moroccan writer Mustafa Al Nahal, and was moderated by Emirati poet, Sheikha Al Mutairi. Fatima Al Ameri, drawing on her experience with the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), shared insights from evaluating stories written by children themselves. She noted that young writers often demonstrate a natural affinity for movement, imagination and sensory detail, referencing one story where a child envisioned a hand turning into an octopus. Al Ameri stressed that authentic children's literature must avoid over-simplification and instead be informed by a deeper understanding of how children perceive and construct the world around them. She argued that when given the freedom to express themselves, children are more than capable of creating intricate and imaginative storylines. She also spoke about the production hurdles facing the children's book industry, particularly the high costs associated with illustrations, paper stock and cover design. She affirmed that investment in these creative and material elements is essential to stimulate children's interest and foster a love for reading. Addressing the session, Al Nahal identified key challenges facing Arabic children's literature, most notably the persistence of adult-dominated narratives that fail to centre the child's perspective. He criticised the prevailing tendency among publishers to treat children as passive readers, noting the lack of specialised psychological consultants in the production process who could ensure developmentally appropriate content. Al Nahal cited a leading initiative in Meknes, Morocco, that has involved teachers and educators in the content creation process – an approach that has since gained traction and led to the development of more resonant and effective children's stories. He also offered a historical overview of Morocco's publishing efforts in this field, highlighting the role of author Mohamed Al Ashari during his tenure as Minister of Culture. Al Ashari had encouraged publishers to allocate part of their output to children's books, spurring a wave of innovation including the simultaneous release of colour and black-and-white editions to tackle cost-related accessibility challenges. Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan heritage architecture Researchers and experts have affirmed that traditional architecture in the UAE and Morocco transcends aesthetic appeal, serving as a profound expression of cultural identity and social values. Architecture in both countries uniquely reflects local environments and documents the progression of societal transformations. These insights emerged during a panel discussion titled "The Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan Heritage Architecture," organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati researcher Hamad Bin Sarai and Moroccan researcher Dr. Zhour Karam, with writer Sheikha Al Mutairi moderating. Sarai detailed essential features of traditional Emirati architecture, emphasising that its true beauty emerges through understanding historical, present, and future contexts. He highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between architectural styles and maritime heritage, illustrating how cultural identity and environmental conditions have shaped design elements. He further described the architectural adaptations across desert, mountainous, and coastal regions, emphasising solutions that meet local climatic conditions and daily needs. Traditional ventilation techniques such as flat roofs suitable for areas with low rainfall, Barajeel (wind towers) for natural cooling, and privacy-oriented window designs were discussed extensively. Sarai also explored the diverse materials employed in Emirati architecture, including indigenous gypsum, palm fronds, East African mangrove wood, stone, coral, clay, and bamboo. Architectural embellishments like intricate details on doors, arches, and ceilings, along with aesthetic features such as sunscreens and pointed arches exemplified by historical sites like Al Bidya Mosque, were highlighted. He noted the distinctive absence of minarets in early Emirati religious architecture. Dr. Zhour Karam presented traditional Moroccan architecture as profoundly harmonising form and essence, evident in contemporary structures that embody Moroccan identity and cultural continuity. She drew significant parallels between Moroccan and Emirati architectural traditions, particularly their shared Islamic design roots, characterised by geometric patterns and symbolic motifs rather than representations of living beings. She underscored the unique Moroccan zellige (decorative tiles) as a symbol of intricate craftsmanship and national identity.
Sharjah 24
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Authors call for child-centred stories in Arabic children's books
The aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan children's books This was the central message of a dialogue titled 'The aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan children's books', organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati author Fatima Al Ameri and Moroccan writer Mustafa Al Nahal, and was moderated by Emirati poet, Sheikha Al Mutairi. Identified key challenges facing Arabic children's literature Addressing the session, Al Nahal identified key challenges facing Arabic children's literature, most notably the persistence of adult-dominated narratives that fail to centre the child's perspective. He criticised the prevailing tendency among publishers to treat children as passive readers, noting the lack of specialised psychological consultants in the production process who could ensure developmentally appropriate content. Al Nahal cited a leading initiative in Meknes, Morocco, that has involved teachers and educators in the content creation process - an approach that has since gained traction and led to the development of more resonant and effective children's stories. He also offered a historical overview of Morocco's publishing efforts in this field, highlighting the role of author Mohamed Al Ashari during his tenure as Minister of Culture. Al Ashari had encouraged publishers to allocate part of their output to children's books, spurring a wave of innovation including the simultaneous release of colour and black-and-white editions to tackle cost-related accessibility challenges. Shared insights from evaluating stories written by children themselves Fatima Al Ameri, drawing on her experience with the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), shared insights from evaluating stories written by children themselves. She noted that young writers often demonstrate a natural affinity for movement, imagination and sensory detail, referencing one story where a child envisioned a hand turning into an octopus. Al Ameri stressed that authentic children's literature must avoid over-simplification and instead be informed by a deeper understanding of how children perceive and construct the world around them. She argued that when given the freedom to express themselves, children are more than capable of creating intricate and imaginative storylines. She also spoke about the production hurdles facing the children's book industry, particularly the high costs associated with illustrations, paper stock and cover design. She affirmed that investment in these creative and material elements is essential to stimulate children's interest and foster a love for reading.
Sharjah 24
21-04-2025
- General
- Sharjah 24
Researchers: Trad. architecture reflects UAE, Morocco identity
The Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan Heritage Architecture These insights emerged during a panel discussion titled "The Aesthetics of Emirati and Moroccan Heritage Architecture," organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour programme at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The session featured Emirati researcher Hamad bin Sarai and Moroccan researcher Dr. Zhour Karam, with writer Sheikha Al Mutairi moderating. Detailed essential features of traditional Emirati architecture Sarai detailed essential features of traditional Emirati architecture, emphasising that its true beauty emerges through understanding historical, present, and future contexts. He highlighted the deep-rooted relationship between architectural styles and maritime heritage, illustrating how cultural identity and environmental conditions have shaped design elements. He further described the architectural adaptations across desert, mountainous, and coastal regions, emphasising solutions that meet local climatic conditions and daily needs. Traditional ventilation techniques such as flat roofs suitable for areas with low rainfall, Barajeel (wind towers) for natural cooling, and privacy-oriented window designs were discussed extensively. Sarai also explored the diverse materials employed in Emirati architecture, including indigenous gypsum, palm fronds, East African mangrove wood, stone, coral, clay, and bamboo. Architectural embellishments like intricate details on doors, arches, and ceilings, along with aesthetic features such as sunscreens and pointed arches exemplified by historical sites like Al Bidya Mosque, were highlighted. He noted the distinctive absence of minarets in early Emirati religious architecture. Presented traditional Moroccan architecture as profoundly harmonising form and essence, evident in contemporary structures Dr. Zhour Karam presented traditional Moroccan architecture as profoundly harmonising form and essence, evident in contemporary structures that embody Moroccan identity and cultural continuity. She drew significant parallels between Moroccan and Emirati architectural traditions, particularly their shared Islamic design roots, characterised by geometric patterns and symbolic motifs rather than representations of living beings. Dr. Karam stressed how both architectural traditions evolved directly in response to local climates and social practices. She underscored the unique Moroccan zellige (decorative tiles) as a symbol of intricate craftsmanship and national identity, noting how its cultural expression faced suppression under French colonial rule due to its powerful symbolic value. Concluding her presentation, Dr. Karam observed that modern architectural landmarks, such as the UAE's Burj Khalifa and Morocco's Mohammed VI Tower, represent the adaptive evolution of traditional design into the future, encapsulating the aspirations and vision of both nations.
Gulf Today
21-04-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Al Ameri hails Sharjah-Rabat cultural ties
Building on the massive turnout and vibrant engagement with the emirate's guest of honour pavilion at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), affirmed that Sharjah's growing presence on the international cultural stage reflects its status as a leading beacon in the Arab world and internationally. He noted that this unique status is rooted in the visionary leadership of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who believes that true investment begins with people and that culture is the cornerstone of building sustainable societies. The CEO highlighted that the broad interest in Sharjah's participation, from both the general public and cultural leaders, stems from the consistent support and strategic guidance of Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, noting that her commitment has ensured the emirate's presence reflects its intellectual diversity and reinforces the depth of its mission to promote cultural dialogue at both the Arab and global levels. Al Ameri said: 'Culture is not a luxury, but a long-term investment in building conscious individuals who are capable of shaping their future and engaging confidently with global experiences while remaining firmly rooted in their identity. 'It also forms a vital bridge for strengthening ties between societies, with the enduring Arab dialogue, from the Levant to the Maghreb, continuing to thrive as a unifying force with the potential to shape a common future.' He concluded by affirming: 'The cultural partnership between the UAE and Morocco, and between Sharjah and Rabat in particular, stands as a model for advancing Arab cultural action. From Rabat today, we continue the narrative and remain convinced that culture will always be our most powerful foundation for achieving a sustainable Arab renaissance.'
Emirates 24/7
21-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Emirates 24/7
Emirati, Moroccan authors reflect on short story's power to preserve heritage, inspire creativity
Emirati and Moroccan authors emphasised the lasting influence and dynamic potential of the short story as both a guardian of cultural heritage and a fertile ground for innovative storytelling, speaking at a panel discussion on Saturday as part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour programme at the ongoing 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The panellists affirmed the genre's unique capacity to reflect societal shifts, safeguard oral traditions, and explore the boundaries of narrative expression. By blending insights from Emirati and Moroccan literary experiences, the session underlined the short story's significant role in reinforcing Arab literary identity and ensuring its continued relevance. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), the session 'The State of the Short Story in the UAE and Morocco', moderated by Emirati poet Sheikha Al Mutairi, featured Emirati authors Maryam Al Ghafli and Mariam Nasser, alongside Moroccan writer Abdul Nabi Dashin, and was attended by readers, critics, and cultural enthusiasts. Maryam Al Ghafli commenced the discussion by outlining the historical roots of the short story in the UAE, highlighting its deep connection to oral traditions such as Sirat Bani Hilal and the tales of Saif ibn Dhi Yazan. She credited literary pioneers including Abdulaziz Al Sharhan, Ali Abdullah, Abdul Redha Al Sajwani, and Mohammed Al Murr—the latter acknowledged for significantly shaping the genre's trajectory. Al Ghafli detailed three pivotal stages of Emirati short fiction: the pre-union era, influenced strongly by broader pan-Arab literary movements; the post-union phase, marked by local thematic concerns; and the modern period from the 1990s onward, characterised by greater global engagement. She concluded by noting Emirati short stories "began where others had ended," indicating their sophisticated narrative maturity from an early stage. Moroccan writer Abdul Nabi Dashin began his address with a poetic prose piece honouring the experiences of women writers in the UAE. He then charted the evolution of Moroccan short fiction, starting from the 1950s when themes primarily focused on national and societal concerns. By the 1970s, authors began breaking away from traditional narrative constraints, integrating influences from cinema and visual arts. Dashin emphasised the deep and continuing influence of Arab heritage on Moroccan storytelling, describing oral tradition as a 'natural rehearsal for imagination' essential to the creative process. Mariam Nasser addressed the technical intricacies and creative discipline required by short story writing, calling it one of literature's most demanding forms due to its emphasis on brevity and precision. She illustrated this with the example of Emirati writer, Abdullah Saqr's short story collection, Al-Khashaba, which was published in the UAE. She invoked Gabriel Garcia Marquez's famed advice from The Fragrance of Guava: 'Don't bring a nail into your story unless you're going to use it.' Nasser also emphasised the interpretive richness of the highly condensed form of short story writing - flash fiction - and its inherent flexibility for creative exploration. Regarding heritage, she noted that integrating folk tales and legends into contemporary short fiction demonstrates a profound commitment to preserving Arab cultural memory and safeguarding vital oral traditions. Follow Emirates 24|7 on Google News.
