Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, has emphasised the importance of unity and collaboration among publishers across borders as a fundamental strength of the publishing sector. During her keynote address at the opening of the 16th Sharjah International Publishers Conference, she highlighted that innovative solutions often arise from the challenges faced by publishers globally through the exchange of experiences and knowledge. She further noted that the publishing industry has consistently demonstrated its resilience, not only by enduring crises and changes but also by adapting and reinventing its operations to create new avenues for connecting with readers.
Sharjah International Publishers Conference
The conference, running over three days at Expo Centre Sharjah, welcomed 1,433 publishers from 126 countries, coinciding with the lead-up to the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair. During the opening ceremony, Sheikha Bodour awarded the “Kloober” company for its innovative solutions in the publishing sector backed by artificial intelligence, which emerged victorious in the “Innovation” track of the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund. The competition had attracted 94 entries from 17 nations. Kloober, operating in Portugal and Brazil, recorded thousands of paid transactions in its first year and will receive support from the Sharjah Book Authority to establish its operations in Sharjah.
Cultural Significance and Opportunities
Ahmed bin Saud Al Rawahi, Director of the Muscat International Book Fair, commended Sharjah’s global cultural standing in his speech representing Oman. He acknowledged the transforming phase the publishing industry is undergoing, driven by advancements in artificial intelligence. He expressed pride in Oman being the guest of honour at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair, highlighting the event as an opportunity to showcase the country’s rich heritage and literary achievements, while facilitating the broader global presence of Omani literature through translation, rights exchange, and sustainable professional partnerships.
Insights and Discussions at the Conference
The first day of the conference featured 30 panel discussions across four sessions, including seven conducted in Arabic. Topics covered included the applications of artificial intelligence in book discovery, editing, marketing, licensing content, producing and distributing audiobooks, and enhancing the operations of small and medium-sized publishing houses. The discussions also focused on translation rights, adapting books into audiovisual works, leveraging intellectual property, and marketing strategies to reach readers through digital platforms.
• 30 panel discussions took place on the first day of the conference.