Latest news with #CairoInternationalBookFair
Sharjah 24
28-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
A sketch a day captures the spirit of SCRF 2025
Wahba, a master of comic creation, has been drawing a sketch each day at SCRF 2025. If the first day sketch depicted His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, inaugurating SCRF, the second day sketch was a detailed study of a storytelling session at the UAEBbY pavilion, where mothers excitedly took photographs on their mobile phones while children sat on stools gazing at storybooks. The third day's illustration was the House of Wisdom, the new icon of Sharjah's reading culture. 'This is my first time at SCRF, and it is an honour to be here as part of EBBY. I make a live drawing of an activity here every day. The vibes here are magical, with numerous books and activities,' said Wahba who began drawing at the age of four and has numerous illustrated books in Arabic and English. The Cairo-based artist said he had received professional training in Japan, South Korea, France and Turkey and likes to travel around the world to imbibe more cultures. 'For the past 20 years, I only do pen sketches; before that, I used to do pencil sketches. I do this like a game and a challenge,' said the artist. The UAEBbY is exhibiting numerous children's books from Egypt including a few in English at SCRF 2025. Adding colour to the sessions with children are author Dr Ibrahim Shalaby and storyteller Haitham Shoukry who read aloud the books from Egypt. The EBBY team is led by its President Nadia El Kholy, a Professor of English at Cairo University and a distinguished translator. Under the stewardship of UAEBbY President Marwa al Aqroubi, the organisation has collaborated with EBBY for a cultural exchange of ideas. At SCRF, it is organising workshops for children every day. The visiting EBBY team will witness cultural programmes and will be taken for sightseeing across Sharjah including Heart of Sharjah; they will return to their country enlightened about SCRF and its reach. By hosting Egypt at SCRF 2025, UAEBbY is furthering its collaboration with EBBY, which started during its participation in the Cairo International Book Fair earlier in the year. There, UAEBbY had organised a Kan Yama Kan event to visit schools and libraries and gift children with books. One of the stated objectives of the organisation is to donate books to children in need or have poor access to them, and also in places of unrest. In 2024, it had donated over 15,000 books to countries including Jordan, Lebanon and Morocco fulfilling its mission to nurture creativity and positive values in younger generations. Taking place from April 23 to May 4 at Expo Centre Sharjah, the 16th edition of SCRF promises an immersive experience under the theme 'Dive into Books'. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this year's agenda features 133 guests from 70 countries, and 122 Arab and international publishing houses from 22 nations. For more information on this free-to-attend event, visit
Sharjah 24
07-04-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
IDC focuses on understanding readers' drives
They emphasised the necessity of adaptable digital tools, detailed data analysis for readers, and emotional intelligence. To be successful, distribution and marketing plans must be long-term, go beyond exhibitions, and adapt to the changing global publishing landscape. We identified emotional resonance, individualised communication, and technologically facilitated access to literature as critical to successful outreach. Ayman Howeira: Dynamic planning and personalisation Ayman Howeira, the founder and CEO of Kotopia Publishing and Distribution in Egypt and Australia, led a session titled "How to Maintain Your Distribution Policy," in which he emphasised the importance of publishers revising their distribution strategies on a regular basis. He cautioned against relying on fixed techniques that ignore market fluctuations. Howeira identified three critical elements: the use of appropriate technology to efficiently reach readers; the ongoing analysis of user data to alter strategies; and a thorough understanding of readers' needs—communicated through personalised, targeted content in print, digital, or audio formats. Drawing on his expertise in both the Egyptian and Australian sectors, Howeira noted that the maturity of the Australian publishing industry allows him to foresee global trends, whereas his knowledge of the Egyptian market allows him to make genuine connections with Arab consumers. He believes that this dual approach fosters innovation and inclusivity in publishing. Basema Karim: Emotional marketing and loyal reading communities Basema Karim, director of JalisKum Publishing and Jalees Media in Tunisia, stressed the importance of emotional marketing in her workshop, "When Books Speak the Language of Their Audience." She pointed out that today's books compete with entertainment content on social media, necessitating marketing tactics that connect emotionally with readers. By asking, "What is our audience feeling today?" publishers may develop empathy and shared experiences, converting readers into committed supporters. Karim demonstrated emotive marketing methods like reels, interactive images, and movies, all designed to touch the heart. She also emphasised the power of AI, when combined with human understanding, to develop campaigns that transform books from goods to profound emotional journeys. Saeed Shaban explains how long-term thinking affects book fairs Saeed Shaban, the project manager and co-founder of cultural and educational projects, urged publishers to think of book marketing as a continual endeavour rather than something that happens only during exhibitions. In his workshop "Sustainable book marketing during and after exhibitions", he highlighted insights from the Cairo International Book Fair, which draws millions each year and has significant potential when supported by long-term plans. He presented the "Fair App" as a case study, which was created to assist visitors through the fair with or without internet access. The software contains a database of over 13,000 books; an interactive directory; restaurant listings; and features for bookmarking favourites. In just two weeks, the app received over 20,000 downloads and half a million searches, demonstrating how technology can improve the visitor experience and extend marketing influence beyond the exhibition halls.
Al-Ahram Weekly
25-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Al-Ahram Weekly
INTERVIEW: Egyptian identity and universal values matter: Al-Shorouk Publisher Amira Abul-Magd - News
On 23 February 1899, Erich Kästner was born in Dresden, Germany. Until his passing in July 1974 in Munich, when Germany remained divided during the Cold War, Kästner was known for his poems, screenplays, columns, and above all, for his bold and unconventional children's books created during and after World War II. This year, for the Cairo International Book Fair, which ran from 23 January to 5 February, Al-Shorouk Publishing released select translations of Kästner's most celebrated titles, beloved by generations from Baby Boomers to Gen Z worldwide. One of those was 'Mo'etamar Al-Hayawanat' (The Animals' Conference), which was first published in Germany in 1949 under the title 'Konferenz der Tiere.' Translated by Samir Grace, the Arabic version is published in simple, primarily colloquial Arabic, with a colourful cover and simple black-and-white drawings. Abul-Magd, who has thirty years of experience publishing children's literature, decided to produce Arabic translations of Kästner's work to introduce Egyptian children, who lack access to foreign-language books, to one of the "most fascinating children's books ever." While the book targets children aged 8-12, Abul-Magd argues that it is 'actually for everyone, adults included, because the ideas and the narration are very interesting and stimulating." While the selection of titles that Al-Shorouk put out for the 56th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair originated in the middle of the 20th century, Abul-Magd argued that 'they still make a lot of sense, and they are still very relevant in so many ways, both in terms of generic information and of universal values." The 200-plus-page Mo'etamar Al-Hayawanat contains what Abul-Magd would describe as a marvellous blend of information—including zoology, geography, medicine, and history—alongside compelling and witty narration. In essence, the book laments the compulsive urge for some to start destructive wars that kill people and destroy cities before negotiating on how to settle scores. Written after World War II, this text is a cry against more wars. Abul-Magd argues that the core message of the book remains valid today, especially for the Middle East, where the Israeli occupation has been committing genocide in the Gaza Strip, Palestine, over the past 15 months. 'The need to pursue justice, stop wars, end unfairness, show compassion, and be kind is always worth talking about,' she said. 'I think these are the universal values we all share as human beings—or at least, we should.' The Kästner translations are the last in a decades-long pursuit of translating global children's literature for Arab child readers for Al-Shorouk. The regional publishing giant has been publishing children's books since their establishment in the 70s. She explained that the idea was to benefit from the advancements made in the format and content of children's books at the early ages of storytelling and reading, 'something that had big room for improvement, especially in the 1970s until the 1990s." She noted that this goal remains relevant due to the significantly increased variety of children's books produced globally, despite significant advancements in the format and content of children's literature in Egypt and other parts of the Arab world. However, Abul-Magd believes there is another reason. 'Today, there are children who could afford to read books that were produced in English, French, and German, simply because they learnt these foreign languages and have the financial ability to buy these books, and there are others who simply do not have this access,' she added. Abul-Magd underscored the importance of introducing children who only read Arabic to these translated works, which are less costly than the foreign-language originals. She stated that producing these books in simple Arabic could also help children with a strictly foreign education become better acquainted with their mother tongue. 'I really find it unfair for children to be deprived of mastering their own language, which is inevitably part of their own identity,' Abul-Magd emphasized. This drawback, she lamented, is becoming more common among children who attend schools that give limited attention, if any, to Arabic. Abul-Magd said that preserving the Arabic language and the ideas particularly relevant to Egyptian identity in children's books, 'with all its shades and colours," is a priority for Al-Shorouk. 'Identity matters a lot, and it is a top priority for our work even as we select titles for translation because we always make sure to steer clear of things incompatible with our culture,' she stressed. She sees no reason for Egyptian children's books to remain stagnant or unattractive for the generations born in the digital age. According to Abul-Magd, publishing children's literature requires capital and talented writers and illustrators, which are in short supply given the fierce competition for Egyptian talent in the Middle East and beyond. Nevertheless, she said the publishing industry is churning out some good work. At this year's book fair, Al-Shorouk also introduced an original children's book, Kol Hatha Bessabab El-Moulokhiyya (All Because of Moulokheiya). The story, written by Samar Taher and illustrated by Walid Taher, targets children aged 6-8 and revolves around why the authentic Egyptian dish is widely popular. The book follows Fouad, who asks five family members about the dish and listens to their thoughts on its origins and recipes. It offers a smorgasbord of information, including history, botany, and social relations. 'Again, the idea is to provide information in a way that prompts interest in learning and also introduces the young child to the idea of multiple narratives,' Abul-Magd said. 'Stories that offer a one-truth tale or are loaded with preaching are certainly out now." For more than 70 years, Al-Shorouk has been dedicated to creating books for children and, more recently, young adults. Al-Shorouk has walked the industry's many stops, publishing pop-up books, cassette stories, colouring books, books for first letters and words, and world maps. The publishing house is now launching stories on a reading application. 'It has been quite a journey, and we keep an eye on moving with the times,' Abul-Magd stated. 'We are aware that some of the old traditional stories are no longer valid for our times simply because they would be considered politically incorrect, but we are also particularly sensitive about cultural nuances and the need to address the questions that are on the minds of children today." Abul-Magd laments the difficulties in reaching out to children outside the Cairo-centric communities who can still afford to buy books. 'We are aware that children's books have become a hard-to-afford luxury for many,' she said, hoping for a project to make books accessible and affordable to children all over Egypt. Short link:
Muscat Daily
10-02-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman Promotional Identity strategy to strengthen global presence
Muscat – The Oman Promotional Identity strategy, under the slogan 'Ahl Oman', has been officially launched on Sunday, declaring the country's new approach to build its global image. The initiative, developed through collaboration between the Oman Promotional Identity Office and the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, aims to bolster Oman's international standing across diverse sectors. The launch of this campaign was held under the patronage of H E Sultan bin Salem al Habsi, Minister of Finance. H E Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, explained that the strategy took over a year to get ready with a design, involving contributions from both the public and private sectors as well as insights from local and international experts. 'Various segments of the society helped shape the identity, with the visual design selected through a public vote,' he said. The project also received the Royal blessing of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, underlining its national importance. Eng Aisha Mohammed al Saifi, Director of the Oman Promotional Identity Office, stated that the strategy will provide a framework for coordinated communication efforts aimed at enhancing Oman's image globally. She announced the launch of a capacity-building programme, which will train more than 600 participants through workshops and online sessions to implement the identity effectively. 'This week, we will begin with 80 participants, with plans to execute over 60 projects during the next five years,' she said. These projects will focus on streamlining communication, boosting digital content about Oman, and applying global best practices. Sayyid Dr Faris bin Turki al Said, a member of the project's technical team, explained the strategy's implementation mechanism, which includes leveraging global events and conferences to promote Oman. For instance, he highlighted how sports, such as golf tournaments organised by the Foreign Ministry, can strengthen Oman's global presence. Additionally, Oman's heritage and culture will be showcased internationally, as demonstrated by the country's recent participation as a guest of honour at the Cairo International Book Fair. Dr Faris also stressed the critical role of media in promoting the identity. 'Media will be a key partner in ensuring consistent dissemination of information about Oman,' he said, while addressing the challenge of enhancing Oman's digital footprint in key markets. A digital platform will be developed to provide comprehensive information about the identity, and an artificial intelligence system will compile official data, reports, and research for easy access by government and private entities. Capacity-building efforts will include extensive training, starting with 60 to 80 participants initially and expanding to cover 600 more. The performance of this identity promotion campaign will be monitored using digital dashboards, and annual studies will assess its global impact and effectiveness. Dr Faris noted that the project goes beyond visual branding. 'This is an integrated national strategy, laying its foundation over the next 12 months before transitioning into full implementation,' he said. A licensing system will regulate the use of the identity logo, with authorised entities identified in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce and other authorities. Key information about the identity will also be made available to major institutions in tourism and investment sectors.
Saudi Gazette
07-02-2025
- Business
- Saudi Gazette
Saudi pavilion reports large turnout of visitors as Cairo International Book Fair ends
Saudi Gazette report CAIRO — Saudi Arabia's Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission concluded participation in Cairo International Book Fair 2025, which was held in the Egyptian capital from January 23 to February 5. The Saudi pavilion received a large turnout of visitors, as the Commission showcased many of its programs and initiatives that aim to develop the publishing and translation industry in Saudi Arabia, with the participation of publishers and international literary Commission's CEO, Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Wasil, stressed that the Kingdom's participation in Cairo International Book Fair comes within the framework of ongoing efforts to enhance the Saudi presence in the regional and international cultural and literary arena, raise awareness of the Saudi culture and heritage, and emphasize its pioneering role in the regional and international cultural by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, 10 government agencies, including the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Call and Guidance, King Salman International Academy for the Arabic Language, Saudi Cultural Attaché in Egypt, the King Abdulaziz Public Library, King Fahd National Library, Princess Noura bint Abdulrahman University, Prince Sattam University, Tabuk University, Hafr Al-Batin University, and the Publishing Association, participatied in the fair. The Cairo International Book Fair 2025 is a leading international platform that brings together the most prominent bookmakers and thinkers from around the world. The Kingdom's participation in this event has contributed to strengthening its cultural presence at the international level, and opening new horizons for introducing Saudi culture regionally and globally.
