Latest news with #RashidAlKous
Al Etihad
3 days ago
- Business
- Al Etihad
Onshur marks major milestone with graduation of Scale Track cohort
5 June 2025 15:31 SHARJAH (WAM) Under the patronage and in the presence of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur) celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of its 2025 Scale Track at SBA's programme is designed to support established publishers in the UAE in scaling their operations through sustainable and strategic growth. The ceremony honoured twelve publishers who completed the intensive training event was attended by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, as well as programme partners, experts, trainers, and representatives from local and Arab twelve graduating publishers were selected from a pool of 62 applicants who met rigorous eligibility criteria. These included a demonstrated track record of producing high-quality cultural content and a well-defined strategic vision for expansion aligned with global publishing graduating cohort comprised Ajyal Publishing, Ghaf Publications, Sidra Publishing and Distribution, Loaloa Publishing and Distribution, Kalman Publishing and Distribution, Nabatti Publishing, Shaheen Printing Publishing and Distribution, Dar Al-Farqad, Dar Shams Publishing, Dar Al Fikr Al Jadeed, Dar Al Bayan Al Arabi, and Noor on the occasion, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, emphasised the importance of empowering UAE publishers to grow and innovate within a sustainable framework. She stated, 'The Scale Track reflects our vision of enabling publishers to move beyond survival, towards a future defined by excellence, creativity, and leadership in enriching the Arab publishing landscape both locally and globally.'She continued, 'I am proud of this cohort, who have shown a remarkable capacity for learning, growth, and openness to new experiences. I believe they are now equipped with the tools and insights needed to build more resilient and adaptable business models. While they represent the current state of Arab publishing, they are equally poised to shape its global future, fuelled by ambition, determination, and a genuine passion for the written word.'Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri said, 'What distinguishes these publishers is their clear ambition to grow and their willingness to embrace new tools and ideas that can propel their businesses forward. Their participation in the Scale Track represents a strategic blueprint for the regional publishing sector's expansion, firmly rooted in innovation and sustainability. This vision is inspired by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's commitment to cultivating a network of publishers equipped to compete on both regional and global stages, driving a renewed momentum for Arab literature and culture.'For his part, Rashid Al Kous congratulated the graduates and commended their commitment to transforming ambition into tangible said, 'We extend our congratulations to this exceptional cohort, who have exemplified what it means to turn vision into reality. The Scale Track has provided participants with critical skills enabling them to thrive in both local and international markets amid a rapidly evolving publishing landscape.'The ceremony opened with a keynote speech by Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Global Markets at highlighted that Onshur is reshaping how support is delivered to publishers by offering a comprehensive strategic framework that fosters long-term, sustainable growth. 'The Scale Track has surpassed the boundaries of traditional training,' she said. 'It has established a professional platform dedicated to enhancing publishers' operational capabilities and deepening their industry expertise.'Following the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, graduates of the Scale Track benefit from a robust package of post-programme support. This includes one year of professional accounting services to ensure compliance, guidance in applying for the Sharjah International Translation Grant, onboarding to Ingram's global distribution network, access to business loans secured against publishing contracts, specialised advisory sessions, and priority access to upcoming Onshur measures are designed to help publishers shift from operational stability to strategic and sustainable expansion.
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Onshur marks major milestone with graduation of Scale Track cohort
The event was attended by His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, as well as programme partners, experts, trainers, and representatives from local and Arab media. The twelve graduating publishers were selected from a pool of 62 applicants who met rigorous eligibility criteria. These included a demonstrated track record of producing high-quality cultural content and a well-defined strategic vision for expansion aligned with global publishing developments. The graduating cohort comprised Ajyal Publishing, Ghaf Publications, Sidra Publishing and Distribution, Loaloa Publishing and Distribution, Kalman Publishing and Distribution, Nabatti Publishing, Shaheen Printing Publishing and Distribution, Dar Al-Farqad, Dar Shams Publishing, Dar Al Fikr Al Jadeed, Dar Al Bayan Al Arabi, and Noor Publishing. Driving tangible progress for Emirati and Arab publishers Commenting on the occasion, Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, emphasised the importance of empowering UAE publishers to grow and innovate within a sustainable framework. She stated: 'The Scale Track reflects our vision of enabling publishers to move beyond survival, towards a future defined by excellence, creativity, and leadership in enriching the Arab publishing landscape both locally and globally.' She continued: 'I am proud of this cohort, who have shown a remarkable capacity for learning, growth, and openness to new experiences. I believe they are now equipped with the tools and insights needed to build more resilient and adaptable business models. While they represent the current state of Arab publishing, they are equally poised to shape its global future, fuelled by ambition, determination, and a genuine passion for the written word.' Revitalising the future of Arab literature His Excellency Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: 'What distinguishes these publishers is their clear ambition to grow and their willingness to embrace new tools and ideas that can propel their businesses forward. Their participation in the Scale Track represents a strategic blueprint for the regional publishing sector's expansion, firmly rooted in innovation and sustainability. This vision is inspired by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi's commitment to cultivating a network of publishers equipped to compete on both regional and global stages, driving a renewed momentum for Arab literature and culture.' Turning vision into actionable success For his part, His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, congratulated the graduates and commended their commitment to transforming ambition into tangible results. He said: 'We extend our congratulations to this exceptional cohort, who have exemplified what it means to turn vision into reality. The Scale Track has provided participants with critical skills enabling them to thrive in both local and international markets amid a rapidly evolving publishing landscape.' Laying the foundations for strategic publishing growth The ceremony opened with a keynote speech by Iman Ben Chaibah, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Global Markets at SBA. She highlighted that Onshur is reshaping how support is delivered to publishers by offering a comprehensive strategic framework that fosters long-term, sustainable growth. 'The Scale Track has surpassed the boundaries of traditional training,' she said. 'It has established a professional platform dedicated to enhancing publishers' operational capabilities and deepening their industry expertise.' Unlocking sustained expansion through targeted support Following the directives of Sheikha Bodour, graduates of the Scale Track benefit from a robust package of post-programme support. This includes one year of professional accounting services to ensure compliance, guidance in applying for the Sharjah International Translation Grant, onboarding to Ingram's global distribution network, access to business loans secured against publishing contracts, specialised advisory sessions, and priority access to upcoming Onshur initiatives. These measures are designed to help publishers shift from operational stability to strategic and sustainable expansion.
Mid East Info
27-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Menassah Distribution Company Showcases UAE's Literary Riches to Southeast Asian Audiences through the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance the presence of Emirati literature both regionally and internationally, Menassah Distribution Company participated in the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair 2025. The event is organised by the Malaysian Ministry of Education, in collaboration with the National Book Council of Malaysia and several local associations specialising in the publishing industry. It is considered one of the most prominent cultural fairs in Southeast Asia, attracting over 1.5 million visitors annually. Menassah's participation in this significant cultural event, which runs from 23 May to 1 June 2025, was marked by a distinguished pavilion showcasing 5,667 books from the latest releases of 86 Emirati publishing houses. This gave Malaysian and international visitors the opportunity to explore 662 diverse titles reflecting the richness of Emirati and Arab cultural and intellectual output, and to acquire literary and scientific works that illustrate the UAE's cultural diversity. Through this participation, 'Menassah' aims to expand the regional and international distribution of Emirati books and build bridges of cooperation with publishers and distributors from various countries worldwide, especially via the accompanying ASEAN Publishing Rights Fair. This three-day fair serves as an important platform for exchanging publishing and distribution rights as well as forging international partnerships in the field. Rashid Al Kous, General Manager of 'Menassah', stated that this participation aligns with Menassah's strategy aimed at supporting the publishing movement in the UAE and opening wide horizons for local content through active presence at major international fairs. This contributes to enhancing the UAE's position on the regional and global publishing map and supports the country's creative industries. He added, 'Our participation in the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair is part of our ongoing efforts to expand the distribution of Emirati content and make it accessible in promising markets. We are committed to building a flexible distribution network that allows Emirati books to reach readers worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia, where there is significant growth in demand for translated Arabic content.' It is worth noting that the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair has been organised since 1981 and is now considered one of the most anticipated annual events for both publishers and readers. It serves as a rich cultural gathering that brings together publishers, authors, and the public under one roof at the World Trade Centre in Malaysia's capital.
Sharjah 24
27-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Menassah Distribution showcases UAE's lit. riches through KLIBF
Menassah's participation in this significant cultural event, which runs from 23 May to 1 June 2025, was marked by a distinguished pavilion showcasing 5,667 books from the latest releases of 86 Emirati publishing houses. This gave Malaysian and international visitors the opportunity to explore 662 diverse titles reflecting the richness of Emirati and Arab cultural and intellectual output, and to acquire literary and scientific works that illustrate the UAE's cultural diversity. Through this participation, "Menassah" aims to expand the regional and international distribution of Emirati books and build bridges of cooperation with publishers and distributors from various countries worldwide, especially via the accompanying ASEAN Publishing Rights Fair. This three-day fair serves as an important platform for exchanging publishing and distribution rights as well as forging international partnerships in the field. Rashid Al Kous, General Manager of "Menassah", stated that this participation aligns with Menassah's strategy aimed at supporting the publishing movement in the UAE and opening wide horizons for local content through active presence at major international fairs. This contributes to enhancing the UAE's position on the regional and global publishing map and supports the country's creative industries. He added, 'Our participation in the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair is part of our ongoing efforts to expand the distribution of Emirati content and make it accessible in promising markets. We are committed to building a flexible distribution network that allows Emirati books to reach readers worldwide, particularly in Southeast Asia, where there is significant growth in demand for translated Arabic content.' It is worth noting that the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair has been organised since 1981 and is now considered one of the most anticipated annual events for both publishers and readers. It serves as a rich cultural gathering that brings together publishers, authors, and the public under one roof at the World Trade Centre in Malaysia's capital.
Sharjah 24
06-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Menassah distribution expands presence at Muscat Book Fair
Amidst the book fair shelves and spaces of cultural dialogue, 'Menassah' showcases publications from a distinguished group of Emirati publishing houses—narrating stories of literature, thought, and creativity. The company reaffirms the prominent standing of the Emirati book at the heart of the Gulf's cultural scene. Its pavilion at the Muscat Fair drew significant attention from readers and cultural enthusiasts, featuring 730 titles from 77 Emirati publishers, with a total of 4,000 copies spanning a wide range of knowledge fields. At the Doha International Book Fair, the company has expanded its participation, bringing 881 titles produced by 82 local publishing houses, with a total of 5,701 books covering literature, philosophy, self-development, children's books, and other fields of knowledge and creativity. This reflects the growing role of 'Menassah' in marketing and distributing Emirati and Arab books on a broader scale. Commenting on this cultural movement, Rashid Al Kous, General Manager of 'Menassah', said: 'Our participation in the Muscat and Doha book fairs is an extension of our ongoing efforts to support the Emirati publishing industry and expand its presence in regional and cultural forums. We are committed to opening new avenues for local publishers and facilitating the access of their publications to new readers across Arab and international markets. This active presence affirms the vital role played by 'Menassah' in supporting the Arab cultural movement and enhancing the global standing of Emirati books.' He added: 'Book fairs are among the most important cultural platforms for acquiring knowledge and showcasing intellectual production. Our participation in these two fairs is part of 'Menassah' strategy to build an effective and sustainable distribution ecosystem, based on strong partnerships with publishing houses and cultural institutions around the world. We aim to deliver Emirati content to a wider audience, driven by the belief that knowledge is a bridge to connection and progress.' Through its participation in Muscat and Doha, 'Menassah' seeks to build bridges of collaboration with key players in the regional publishing and distribution sector, and present a leading Emirati model for supporting cultural and intellectual content. These fairs also represent an opportunity to expand the company's partnership base and exchange expertise in ways that benefit publishers, authors, and audiences alike—ultimately contributing to the growth of the creative industries in the UAE.
