Sharjah Book Authority meeting focused on digital growth and global publishing plans during a new board meeting led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi in Sharjah. The meeting reviewed future projects, international partnerships, and efforts to strengthen the UAE publishing industry. The authority also discussed ways to improve Arabic content and expand its reach in global markets.
Sheikha Bodour said the vision of Sharjah’s cultural project is to build a strong knowledge economy through books, translation, publishing, and international cooperation. She explained that the publishing industry is changing quickly and needs modern tools to support writers, publishers, and translators. She also stressed the need to increase the global presence of Emirati and Arab literature.
The Sharjah Book Authority meeting reviewed the 2025–2028 Digital Transformation Roadmap. The plan includes smart publishing services, better visitor experiences, audiobook projects, digital libraries, and advanced data systems. Board members also discussed the role of artificial intelligence in improving publishing and supporting sustainable growth in the knowledge sector.
The authority also prepared for Sharjah’s participation as Guest of Honour at the 2026 Warsaw International Book Fair. More than 21 UAE cultural institutions and 35 Emirati writers are expected to join the event.
Officials reviewed the success of the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair, which welcomed over 1.4 million visitors from 206 countries. The meeting also highlighted the Publishers Conference, attended by 1,604 participants from 116 countries, and the 2025 Translation Grant programme, which received more than 2,098 applications.
