Bologna: The Emirates Publishers Association (EPA) has successfully concluded its participation in the 2025 edition of the Bologna Children's Book Fair, held in Bologna, Italy, from 31st March to 3rd April. The event brought together leading literary and artistic figures, as well as content creators from around the world, reinforcing the association's continuous efforts to support the Emirati publishing industry and enhance its presence on the international stage.
According to Emirates News Agency, this strategic participation aligns with the association's vision of opening new avenues for its members, showcasing the quality and diversity of Emirati content in children's and young adult literature, and fostering international cooperation in copyright, translation, and creative production. The association's pavilion featured a distinguished selection of Emirati publishing houses specialising in children's and young adult literature. Among them was Ajyal Publishing and Distribution, represented by Dr. Abdulla AlSharhan, Vice President of EPA and Co-Founder and Creative Director of Ajyal, known for its interactive stories that promote critical thinking and creativity.
Also present was Kiwi Stories Publishing and Distribution, represented by Sahar Naja, General Manager of the publishing house, which is known for crafting emotionally engaging stories that stimulate children's imagination and enrich their minds. Furthermore, the event witnessed the participation of two graduates of the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur): Dalal Hussain Al Jaberi, CEO of Hzaya, and Fatema Hussain AlHammadi, CEO of Sohub Publishing and Distribution.
Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, highlighted the significance of this participation, noting that the Bologna Children's Book Fair provides a key platform to showcase the pioneering Emirati experience in children's literature and establish new strategic partnerships that support the sustainability of publishing and expand the reach of Emirati stories to a global audience. He stated that the association aims to forge high-value international partnerships, enabling its members to leverage the opportunities provided by the fair to expand distribution networks and strengthen the global presence of Emirati books.
Dr. Abdulla AlSharhan remarked that the participation in the Bologna Children's Book Fair is part of the association's ongoing efforts to empower Emirati publishers by facilitating access to global platforms and engaging with the latest developments in children's book publishing. Participating publishers underscored the importance of attending the fair, commending the association's steadfast commitment to supporting Emirati publishers and enabling them to take part in specialised international book fairs.
The Bologna Children's Book Fair stands as a premier platform for exploring global trends in children's literature. It offers Emirati publishers valuable opportunities to engage in meetings with literary agents, industry professionals, and decision-makers, fostering discussions on exporting Emirati content to international markets.