Latest news with #RabatInternationalPublishingandBookFair
Gulf Today
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
EPA celebrates Emirati culture at Rabat book fair
The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) continues to highlight the UAE's cultural presence on the international stage through its active participation in the 30th edition of the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair (SIEL), which kicked off in the Moroccan capital on 17th April. The annual book fair, organised by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, is one of the region's most prominent literary events. This year, Sharjah was honoured as the Guest of Honour, highlighting the strong cultural ties between the UAE and Morocco. The recognition also reflects the spirit of mutual appreciation, following Morocco's role as Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair in 2024. The Emirati publishing delegation participating in the book fair includes Emirati publisher Amira BuKadra, Co-Founder of Ghaf Publishing and Dr. Abdullah Al Sharhan, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Ajyal for Publishing & Distribution. Rashid Alkous, Executive Director of EPA, expressed his pride in participating in the book fair, extending his deep gratitude to Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, founder and honorary president of the Emirates Publishers Association, for her continuous support of the Emirati publishing industry and her pioneering role in enhancing the status of Emirati books on the international stage. He commented, "Our participation in the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair affirms our commitment to supporting Emirati publishers and opening new doors for cultural dialogue and exchange of expertise with our partners in Morocco and the Arab world, especially with Sharjah being chosen as this year's guest of honour; a tribute that reflects the emirate's pioneering role as a global cultural centre." He added, "The book fair represents a strategic platform for exchanging expertise and discussing challenges and opportunities in the publishing industry. We look forward to enriching cultural dialogue and supporting the sustainability efforts of independent publishers, thus contributing to the development of the Arab publishing sector as a whole." Alkous stressed the importance of transforming such participation into sustainable platforms to expand the UAE's cultural influence. He said, "At the Emirates Publishers Association, we work to ensure that our participation in international forums serves as an authentic outlet for cultural communication and showcases the richness of the UAE's creative scene. "Our presence today at the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair is a celebration of Emirati culture and the spirit of Arab cooperation, which contributes to building a prosperous future for the publishing industry in the region." The Emirati publishing delegation will participate in a discussion session at the book fair, moderated by Rashid Al Kous, with the participation of Amira BuKadra, Dr. Abdullah Al Sharhan, Tarek Saliki, President of the Moroccan Publishers Association, and Safaa Wali Publisher at Fennec Publishing House in Casablanca. The session will address three main topics namely, "Ways to enhance book distribution in the region', "Book pricing mechanisms and the sustainability of independent publishers', and "The role of government initiatives in supporting local writers and developing the industry.' With this unique participation, the Emirates Publishers Association renews its unwavering commitment to empowering Emirati publishers, enhancing the UAE's position on the global publishing map, and strengthening bridges of cultural cooperation, thereby enriching the Arab and international literary scene. WAM
Al Etihad
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Al Etihad
Bodour Al Qasimi opens 'Folktales Reimagined' exhibition in Rabat
19 Apr 2025 14:19 SHARJAH (WAM)As part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour cultural programme at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, inaugurated the Moroccan edition of the "Folktales Reimagined" exhibition at the National Library of the Kingdom of by the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) in collaboration with IBBY Morocco and the National Library, the exhibition brings together five Emirati and five Moroccan artists, each reimagining a folktale from the other's culture. These contemporary visual interpretations offer a unique fusion of heritage and modernity, introducing new generations to characters and legends that have long shaped the cultural identity of both the UAE and Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, said, "Since the project launched at the Bologna Children's Book Fair in 2022, our aim has been to evolve beyond a simple exhibition format into a cultural movement that takes folktales across borders. This Moroccan edition is a testament to the growing global interest in rediscovering folklore through the lens of art."She continued, "We're working to establish 'Folktales Reimagined' as a sustainable platform where artists from different countries can dive into each other's narrative traditions, understand their symbolism, and explore their social contexts. In doing so, we restore the educational and cultural value of folktales and turn them into a universal language for cross-cultural connection."This is the sixth edition of the traveling exhibition, following previous editions in Italy, Mexico, South Korea, Greece, and Russia. Each stop has served as a creative hub for cultural dialogue, where artists and audiences engage beyond the visual, exploring shared values, societal memories, and the dreams that bind us Moroccan edition featured innovative artworks by ten artists from the UAE and Morocco, each reimagining a traditional tale from the other's culture through a personal, contemporary artist Amna Al Ketbi revisited the story of Hadidan le Rusé, about a clever boy who survives a monstrous ogress thanks to a house made of iron. Khalid Al-Khawar interpreted The Weaver's Daughter, a touching tale of a blind girl who, after being lost in a forest, finds a new beginning and miraculously regains her sight. Reem Ahmed explored the legend of Aïcha Kandicha, one of Morocco's most enigmatic folktale figures—part heroine, part ghost—who symbolises beauty, danger, and Al Jabri offered her vision of Haïna and the Ogre, a story of a brave girl who disguises herself to escape a monstrous creature and ultimately rescues her fiancé with the help of magical birds. Meanwhile, Rafia Al Nassar reimagined The Forest Monster, a compact yet symbol-rich tale of a boy who defeats a fierce beast through wit and the Moroccan side, artist Mohamed Haïti drew inspiration from the Emirati tale of Al-Hama, a gluttonous, bird-like creature that embodies chaos and unrelenting hunger. Sophia Alami presented her interpretation of Oum Rukheesh, a terrifying omen-like bird that preys on the vulnerable, haunting cemeteries and darkened Kharifi redefined the infamous Bou Sola, a wolf-like beast with glowing red eyes and a haunting presence, offering a bold, surreal vision of fear and the Hmaiddout infused warmth and vibrancy into Jinni Al-Raqqas—the legendary cannon of Sharjah said to dance only to music and joy—transforming it into a spirited symbol of festivity and Mickaël El Fathi tackled the eerie figure of Jinni Al-Marijah, a haunting child-like jinn that emerges in broad daylight, unsettling the community with his ghostly appearance and deep-rooted artists employed techniques ranging from digital art and illustration to poster design, using vibrant visual languages to reinterpret these folktales for modern, digital-native audiences. Their works transformed traditional stories into immersive experiences, using colour, shape, and form as narrative tools. "Folktales Reimagined" was first launched in 2019 during Sharjah's UNESCO World Book Capital celebrations. Created by UAEBBY, the initiative promotes cultural understanding through artistic storytelling, reviving the narrative heritage of diverse communities. The exhibition has since toured multiple countries—including the UAE, Italy, Mexico, the Republic of Korea, Greece, and Russia—and has been widely embraced by audiences.
Sharjah 24
19-04-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
EPA participates in 'Rabat International Book Fair'
This comes as part of its ongoing efforts to expand the presence of Emirati literature on international stages The Association's participation comes as part of its ongoing efforts to expand the presence of Emirati literature on international stages and enhance opportunities for collaboration with publishing professionals in the Arab world. The book fair organised annually by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, is one of the region's most prominent literary events. This year, Sharjah will be recognised as the guest of honour at the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, affirming the close cultural ties between the UAE and Morocco and continuing the mutual appreciation demonstrated by Morocco's hosting as the guest of honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair 2024. The Emirati publishing delegation participating in the book fair includes Emirati publisher Amira BuKadra, Co-Founder of Ghaf Publishing and Dr. Abdullah Al Sharhan, Co-Founder and Creative Director of Ajyal for Publishing & Distribution. The presence of Emirati publishers at the book fair reflects their keenness to explore new horizons of cooperation with regional and international publishers, and to introduce their publications that reflect the diversity and innovation in the Emirati publishing scene. Deep gratitude Rashid Alkous, Executive Director of EPA, expressed his pride in participating in the book fair, extending his deep gratitude to Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, founder and honorary president of the Emirates Publishers Association, for her continuous support of the Emirati publishing industry and her pioneering role in enhancing the status of Emirati books on the international stage. He commented: "Our participation in the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair affirms our commitment to supporting Emirati publishers and opening new doors for cultural dialogue and exchange of expertise with our partners in Morocco and the Arab world, especially with Sharjah being chosen as this year's guest of honour; a tribute that reflects the emirate's pioneering role as a global cultural centre." He further added, "The book fair represents a strategic platform for exchanging expertise and discussing challenges and opportunities in the publishing industry. We look forward to enriching cultural dialogue and supporting the sustainability efforts of independent publishers, thus contributing to the development of the Arab publishing sector as a whole." Alkous stressed the importance of transforming such participations into sustainable platforms to expand the UAE's cultural influence. He said, "At the Emirates Publishers Association, we work to ensure that our participation in international forums serves as an authentic outlet for cultural communication and showcases the richness of the UAE's creative scene. Our presence today at the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair is a celebration of Emirati culture and the spirit of Arab cooperation, which contributes to building a prosperous future for the publishing industry in the region." To participate in a discussion session The Emirati publishing delegation will participate in a discussion session at the book fair, moderated by Rashid Al Kous, with the participation of Amira BuKadra, Dr. Abdullah Al Sharhan, Tarek Saliki, President of the Moroccan Publishers Association, and Safaa Wali Publisher at Fennec Publishing House in Casablanca. The session will address three main topics namely, 'Ways to enhance book distribution in the region', 'Book pricing mechanisms and the sustainability of independent publishers', and 'The role of government initiatives in supporting local writers and developing the industry.' With this unique participation, the Emirates Publishers Association renews its unwavering commitment to empowering Emirati publishers, enhancing the UAE's position on the global publishing map, and strengthening bridges of cultural cooperation, thereby enriching the Arab and international literary scene.
Gulf Today
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Today
Sharjah shines as Guest of Honour at Rabat Book Fair
In the presence of Prince Moulay Rachid of Morocco and Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), Sharjah opened its landmark Guest of Honour participation at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair with a vibrant celebration of Arab culture, knowledge and cross-cultural solidarity. The Guest of Honour's participation recognises the Emirate's longstanding efforts to advance the Arab cultural project, deepening the strategic cultural ties between the UAE and the Kingdom of Morocco. Sheikha Bodour joined Prince Moulay Rachid and Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, in inaugurating the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, which will continue until 27th April at the OLM Souissi venue in Rabat. Sheikha Bodour and Prince Moulay Rachid inaugurate Rabat Book Fair on Friday. WAM Following the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sheikha Bodour accompanied Prince Moulay Rachid to Sharjah's Guest of Honour pavilion, where she led a guided tour alongside Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. Among the distinguished attendees were Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, and Latifa Mouftakir, Director of Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. Delegations from both sides were also present, marking the occasion in the spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange. As part of the tour, delegates were shown exhibitions and educational programmes that embody the core of Sharjah's cultural project, including works from Emirati publishing houses, initiatives by cultural institutions, and heritage-inspired creative content featured in the emirate's participation. The officials, led by Sheikha Bodour and Prince Moulay Rachid, proceeded with a tour of the book fair, during which they visited various country pavilions and exhibits to view their publications. Sheikha Bodour and Prince Moulay Rachid tour different pavilions at Rabat Book Fair. WAM Sharjah's Guest of Honour pavilion, managed by SBA, brings together 18 cultural and academic institutions from across the Emirate, reflecting the scale and depth of its investment in culture, heritage and education. Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of Chellah, one of Morocco's most iconic archaeological sites and a UNESCO World Heritage landmark, a gala dinner was hosted in honour of the visiting Sharjah delegation. Steeped in history, Chellah stands as a powerful symbol of Morocco's cultural legacy, with roots tracing back to ancient civilisations and a walled necropolis dating to the Marinid era. The evening brought together leading cultural figures from Morocco and the UAE to celebrate Sharjah's participation as Guest of Honour at Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair 2025 and to reflect on the deepening cultural ties between the two nations. During the event, Sheikha Bodour, as Head of the Sharjah delegation, delivered a keynote address in which she said, "I bring sincere greetings and deep appreciation from His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to His Majesty King Mohammed VI and all fellow book fair participants. I would like to convey His Highness's deep admiration for the intellectual and cultural contributions that the Kingdom of Morocco has made throughout the centuries-contributions it continues to make today.' Sheikha Bodour being briefed during the Rabat Book Fair. WAM She added, "Our relationship with Morocco is founded upon a long and meaningful history of cultural and intellectual exchange. When Ibn Battuta journeyed eastward, he recorded the shared values and rich heritage that bound the people of the Mashreq and Maghreb together. These values bind us together still. "Today, we are inspired by the legacy of Ibn Battuta, the heritage of Al Qarawiyyin University, and the work of Al Sharif Al Idrisi as we build cultural bridges between our two countries. Our collaboration helps strengthen the deep bonds we share, bonds that were once tested during a time when global powers tried to divide our people. As a new generation of nations and leaders who believe in the power of culture to bring people closer together, we understand the value of heritage and appreciate one another with greater awareness and a deeper sense of responsibility." Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid stated, "This year's edition is distinguished by the participation of the Emirate of Sharjah as Guest of Honour, which reflects the strong relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United Arab Emirates under the leadership of both countries' heads of state.' He added, "We had the honour of His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid inaugurating the 30th edition of the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, held under the royal patronage of His Majesty King Mohammed VI.' "We are pleased to welcome Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi and the delegation from Sharjah. This will offer Moroccan audiences and visitors a valuable opportunity to explore a rich culture deeply rooted in historical traditions. The book fair is an international cultural gathering that celebrates reading and books, with a programme of seminars, presentations, and new publications that reflect the central place of literature and reading in society.' Sharjah's programme at Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair 2025 features over 50 events, including thought leadership panels, poetry evenings, children's workshops, and professional exchanges between publishers, writers and intellectuals from the UAE and Morocco. More than 18 Emirati institutions are exhibiting hundreds of titles, opening up new translation and licensing opportunities. Special focus is placed on engaging young readers. Through partnerships with the UAE Board on Books for Young People and the 'Kan Yama Kan' initiative, the programme includes interactive sessions designed to promote reading habits and introduce Emirati heritage through modern storytelling formats. Sharjah's delegation comprises 18 leading entities, including the Emirates Writers Union, Emirates Publishers Association, Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association, Emirates Libraries and Information Association, Sharjah Department of Culture, Sheikh Sultan Al Qasimi Centre for Gulf Studies, Arabic Language Academy in Sharjah, Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Supreme Council for Family Affairs, Al Qasimi Publications, American University of Sharjah, UAE Board on Books for Young People, House of Wisdom, Sharjah Literary Agency, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, PublisHer initiative and Sharjah Broadcasting Authority. WAM
Gulf News
18-04-2025
- Gulf News
Watch: Sharjah reaffirms cultural leadership as Guest of Honour at Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair
Rabat, Morocco: In a vibrant celebration of Arab culture and cross-cultural solidarity, Sharjah marked its Guest of Honour participation at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair in Morocco. The event, graced by Prince Moulay Rachid and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), highlights Sharjah's ongoing commitment to enriching Arab cultural heritage and strengthening ties with Morocco. The fair, being held at the OLM Souissi venue in Rabat until April 27, was inaugurated by Sheikha Bodour and Prince Moulay Rachid, alongside Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication. The opening ceremony featured a ribbon-cutting followed by a tour of the Sharjah Guest of Honour pavilion, where Sheikha Bodour, accompanied by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the SBA, showcased exhibitions and educational programmes that embody Sharjah's cultural initiatives. During the tour, notable figures including Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Department of Government Relations in Sharjah, and Latifa Mouftakir, Director of Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair, were present, celebrating the spirit of collaboration and cultural exchange. 18 institutions Sharjah's pavilion, managed by the SBA, brings together 18 cultural and academic institutions from the emirate, showcasing a breadth of cultural, heritage, and educational initiatives. This participation not only reflects the depth of Sharjah's investment in culture and education but also its role in fostering dialogue and understanding across cultures. A special gala dinner was hosted at the historic Chellah, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Morocco, to honour the Sharjah delegation. This event underscored the shared historical ties and future unity between the UAE and Morocco, bringing together leading cultural figures from both nations. Historical ties In her keynote address, Sheikha Bodour conveyed greetings from His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah to King Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, and the participants of the fair. She said: 'Our relationship with Morocco is founded upon a long and meaningful history of cultural and intellectual exchange. When Ibn Battuta journeyed eastward, he recorded the shared values and rich heritage that bound the people of the Mashreq and Maghreb together. These values bind us together still.' Sheikh Bodour added: 'Today, we are inspired by the legacy of Ibn Battuta, the heritage of Al-Qarawiyyin University, and the work of Al-Sharif Al-Idrisi as we build cultural bridges between our two countries. Our collaboration helps strengthen the deep bonds we share, bonds that were once tested during a time when global powers tried to divide our people. As a new generation of nations and leaders who believe in the power of culture to bring people closer together, we understand the value of heritage and appreciate one another with greater awareness and a deeper sense of responsibility. Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid remarked on the significance of Sharjah's participation as Guest of Honour, reflecting the strong bilateral relations nurtured under the leadership of both nations. He also expressed his honour in having Prince Moulay Rachid inaugurate this milestone edition of the book fair. 50 events The fair's rich programme includes over 50 events such as thought leadership panels, poetry evenings, and children's workshops, with a special focus on engaging young readers. Initiatives like the UAE Board on Books for Young People and the 'Kan Yama Kan' initiative are crucial in promoting reading habits and introducing Emirati heritage through storytelling. Sharjah's comprehensive delegation includes leading cultural and educational entities, reinforcing its role as a hub of Arab cultural and intellectual activity. This robust participation not only highlights Sharjah's commitment to cultural leadership but also its dedication to nurturing the literary scene and opening doors for new collaborative opportunities in translation and publishing.
