Latest news with #UNESCOWorldBookCapital
Sharjah 24
17-07-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SPC Free Zone announces streamlined summer business setup offer
Announced this month, the initiative combines speed, simplicity, and strategic value for companies targeting the UAE and regional markets as it builds upon Sharjah's global reputation in being a strategic hub for knowledge-based industries. Unlimited opportunity and full turn-key services The core offer packages a business license and one investor visa for a total discounted cost of AED 12,500, and a key advantage is the dramatically accelerated processing time; upon approval, the business license is issued instantly, while the residency visa is processed within an impressive five working days. Businesses benefit from access to over 2,000 permissible activities covering the entire publishing value chain, including book and digital publishing, printing, packaging, translation, content creation, distribution, graphic design, and media services. The offer also includes the flexibility of the Flexi-Desk package, allowing companies to sponsor an unlimited number of additional visas for employees as they grow. Founders retain 100% foreign ownership and enjoy full repatriation of capital and profits. Through a collaborative network, SPC Free Zone also facilitates seamless financial integration by providing clients direct access to a network of over 10 leading UAE and international banking partners. This established network simplifies the often complex process of opening corporate bank accounts, offering businesses a range of tailored financial solutions and removing a major operational hurdle for new market entrants. Additional support features encompass complimentary company name availability checks and a commitment to rapid callback support; typically within 60 seconds when requested; facilitating a smooth setup journey. A tailored ecosystem Beyond the immediate promotion, SPC Free Zone provides a uniquely tailored ecosystem. Established in 2017 by decree of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, it holds the distinction of being the world's first free zone dedicated exclusively to the publishing, printing, and allied creative industries. Notably, SPC Free Zone pioneered the world's first AI-generated business license, reflecting its commitment to digital innovation, and all licenses issued carry MOFA (UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs) certification, ensuring global document recognition and legal compliance for international operations. This initiative is a cornerstone of Sharjah's strategy to cement its position as a global cultural and knowledge hub, further bolstered by its UNESCO World Book Capital designation in 2019. The zone offers businesses a supportive, collaborative environment operating within a tax-exempt and customs-duty-free framework, specifically designed for publishers, printers, authors, translators, designers, and technology providers. Commenting on the promotion, Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of Sharjah Publishing City said, 'Sharjah's vision has always been to empower the written word and those who bring it to the world. This summer initiative reflects our commitment to removing barriers for global publishing and creative talent. By offering speed, simplicity, and significant value, we aim to attract innovative businesses seeking a strategic base to serve regional and international markets.' The summer promotion is available for a limited period. Entrepreneurs and businesses interested in leveraging this accelerated setup opportunity are encouraged to initiate the process by submitting their details through the online form available on the SPC Free Zone website.
Sharjah 24
25-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
Sharjah pushes Arab literature into Latin America
As Latin America's premier book industry event, this year's fair coincided with Rio's designation as UNESCO World Book Capital. This offered the Agency a significant opportunity to connect with major publishing players across the continent. Global interest in Arab literature Commenting on the participation, Tamer Said, Director of the Sharjah Literary Agency, stated: 'Our participation in the Rio International Book Fair was a significant step toward building sustainable partnerships with Latin American publishing institutions. We witnessed a genuine interest in Arab literature from Brazilian publishers, opening up a promising opportunity to expand translation and distribution circles and introduce the voice of the Arab author to new readers and diverse cultural landscapes. At the Sharjah Literary Agency, we believe that building literary bridges is at the heart of our work, and investing in these key cultural events will make a long-lasting impact on Arab publishing globally.' Exploring opportunities for translation and co-publishing During the meetings with Brazilian publishers, the Agency discussed mechanisms for reciprocal translation and the possibilities of co-publishing, as well as how to professionally manage Arab authors' rights in Latin America. Future collaborations were also discussed with potential partners, laying the groundwork for new projects that aim to enhance the presence of Arab creativity in South America. This participation is part of a broader strategic vision led by the Emirate of Sharjah to strengthen cultural exchange between the Arab world and Latin America by consolidating its presence on international platforms and fostering direct dialogue between publishing stakeholders on both sides. The Sharjah Literary Agency, one of the initiatives of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), aims to empower Arab writers to access new markets and bolster the presence of Arab literary rights on global platforms. The Agency remains firmly committed to representing Arab creativity and expanding its reach on the international scene, contributing to sustainable bridges of cultural and knowledge exchange between peoples.
Sharjah 24
30-04-2025
- Sharjah 24
HoW concludes Rabat Book Fair
The HoW booth attracted notable attention, including a visit from Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, and H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. HoW Executive Director Marwa Al Aqroubi welcomed the dignitaries, offering insights into the showcased works that reflected the Arab world's enduring contributions to travelogues and maritime navigation. The booth also welcomed distinguished guests, including Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, and H.E. Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family. A Bridge of Cultural and Intellectual Exchange Marwa Al Aqroubi said: 'Morocco is a timeless crossroads of Arab-Islamic heritage — a living bridge of culture and thought. At RIBF, House of Wisdom continues this dialogue, uniting shared values beyond borders.' She added: 'Sharjah's designation as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019 marked a turning point in championing knowledge, embodied in the founding of House of Wisdom. With Rabat stepping into the same role in 2026, our cultural ties grow even stronger, reflecting the enduring commitment of the UAE and Morocco to champion culture and preserve our shared human heritage.' The HoW booth hosted a session titled 'Chapters of Islamic Art: Travelogues – Exploring the Legacy of Ahmad ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta.' The session highlighted the lasting impact of Islamic travelogues, with insights from H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Sheikha Al Mutairi, Head of National Culture and Documents at Juma Al Majid Center. They discussed the motivations behind Muslim travels and the crucial contributions of Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta in documenting their journeys. Additionally, HoW showcased its flagship initiatives, including the second edition of 'Chapters of Islamic Art,' currently running in Sharjah until 5 July with the theme 'Travelogues.' The exhibition features the origins of geographic documentation, Idrisi's medieval maps, ancient navigation tools, and rare manuscripts and books. Visitors to the RIBF were also invited to experience the exhibition through an immersive, interactive virtual tour. Rare Manuscripts and Books on Navigation and Travel House of Wisdom showcased a collection of rare manuscripts and books that highlighted the contributions of notable Arab explorers and navigators, including Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta. Among the exhibits was a manuscript titled 'The Verses of Ibn Majid,' a rare collection of poems, verses, and letters by Ibn Majid on maritime literature, offering significant scientific value due to its previously unpublished poetic texts. The exhibition also featured 'Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid,' a book authored by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The book provides documented evidence that exonerates Ibn Majid from claims that he assisted the Portuguese in reaching and occupying India. Also on display was a rare manuscript of Ibn Battuta's 'A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling,' documenting his 30-year journey across 44 countries. First printed in 1933 by the Amiriya Press in Cairo, the two-volume work has been translated into Portuguese, French, English, and partially into German. The participation further strengthens the HoW's efforts to enhance Sharjah's international cultural presence and highlight Arab and Islamic heritage through its evolving themes, including travelogues as a gateway to understanding civilisations and fostering cultural dialogue.
