The Emirates Publishers Association continued its mission to spotlight the richness of Emirati literature and support local publishers on the international cultural stage with its participation in the 11th edition of the China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair. The event ran from November 15 to 17.
Representing the Emirates Publishers Association were two of its esteemed members: Hamda Albloushi, founder of Aalmkom Publishing House, and Ali AlShaali, CEO of Alhudhud Publishing and Distribution House, who is both a publisher and poet. The Association’s agenda for the exhibition included a series of strategic meetings with industry leaders, publishers, and rights managers from various countries. Through these discussions, the EPA aimed to enable its members to secure agreements for the purchase and sale of publishing and translation rights in children’s literature, focusing on facilitating the exchange of Chinese literary works into Arabic and vice versa—fostering cultural dialogue between China and the UAE.
Commenting on the participation, His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, said, “The China Shanghai International Children’s Book Fair is a unique platform, providing an invaluable opportunity to explore new and meaningful partnerships that can broaden the scope of our publishers’ work, enrich their experiences through connections with the global publishing community, and keep them informed of the latest developments in children’s publishing.”
He added, “Emirati publishers boast a remarkable record of innovation in children’s literature, deserving of a global audience. Through our participation in exhibitions of this nature, we strive to create avenues for Emirati publishers to share their work with the world, inspire the imaginations of young readers, and simultaneously enrich Arab culture with carefully selected works from international literature.”
It is worth noting that Aalmkom Publishing and Distribution House specialises in producing high-quality children’s books and innovative educational resources designed specifically for young and emerging learners. The publishing house is dedicated to advancing educational innovation, offering resources that go beyond traditional learning to spark curiosity and strengthen core skills in children. Its collection also includes interactive educational tools that combine learning with play, empowering educators to adapt and innovate in their teaching practices.
Alhudhud Publishing and Distribution House, meanwhile, is renowned for its rich portfolio of Arabic children’s stories that meet the highest international standards. Founded in 2011, Alhudhud has established a distinguished reputation in the region, supported by an extensive distribution network across the Arab world and beyond. The house operates with a firm belief in the positive, long-term impact of quality literature on children, families, and communities.
