EPA showcases work in Riyadh

SHARJAH: The Manassah platform, Emirates Publishers Association (EPA)’s latest initiative, is greatly fulfilling the objective of strengthening its membership profile by displaying their works in new market places, and drawing the attention of Arabic language readers around the world.

EPA has recently shed light on 75 titles published by 10 of its members on Manassah to 913 publishing houses from 30 different countries, well-known Arab and international authors, experts from the publishing industry, and many other visitors at Riyadh International Book Fair 2019, which was held last week.

The platform was a mean for EPA to display and acknowledge the distinguished works of the following publishers in Riyadh: Al Takhayol Publishing and Distribution, Waraq Publishing and Distribution, Dar Al Turath Al Shaabi, Sail Publishing, Al Fulk Translation and Publishing, Sadiqat Publishing and Distribution, Dragon Publishing and Distribution, Bawabat Al Kitab Publishing, Al Andalus, and Nabd Al Qalam.

The Manassah project launched with the support of Tilal Properties has been designed to help publishers who are EPA members with less than 20 titles under their name, and face challenges when it comes to representing themselves at important local, regional and international book fairs.

Alongside representing the abovementioned publishers, EPA’s also shined light on its overarching efforts to elevate the UAE’s publishing sector, shared their expertise and success stories with Arab and international publishers they met at the Riyadh International Books Fair, and networked with publishers to explore opportunities for future collaboration.

Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of EPA, said: “Our participation in book fairs and cultural events is instrumental to the role we play in promoting the status of local and Arab publishing. These events offer us a rich platform to exchange expertise and experiences with everyone who complete the publishing sector’s ecosystem. It is also an ideal opportunity to contribute the success of these cultural events by showcasing our initiatives and innovations.” “The publishing industry worldwide needs to actively explore and understand other cultural experiences, which come together to nurture it. EPA is keen to participate in book fairs as they offer invaluable opportunities to forge strategic partnerships, meet publishers and showcase Emirati literary titles,” he added.