Sharjah Hosts Annual Publishers Conference With Professionals From 108

Kicking off three days of global publishing insights, the 14th Sharjah Publishers Conference is now underway at Expo Center Sharjah, drawing 1,065 publishing professionals from 108 countries. Hosted by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this event precedes the Sharjah International Book Fair and is a vital networking platform for leaders in the industry, welcoming first-time participants from the Central African Republic this year.

Over the course of the conference, participants will engage in 30 in-depth roundtable sessions exploring current challenges, emerging trends, and technological advancements shaping the publishing landscape. Keynote speeches on opening day feature insights from industry leaders, including Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, SBA Chairperson, and John Ingram of Ingram Content Group. Attendees will also gain perspectives from HarperCollins’ Chantal Restivo-Alessi in a live discussion on the digital future of publishing.

In a celebration of industry excellence, the first day will see the presentation of the Sharjah Rights Connection Awards, spotlighting exceptional contributions to rights trading. The awards, which come with USD 2,500 cash prizes, honor two key figures in translation rights—one from a publishing house and one independent. Further, Visa (MENA) and PublisHer will announce the recipient of the “She’s Next in Publishing” award, dedicated to supporting female innovators in publishing with a USD 50,000 prize and a UAE operating license.

Days two and three will delve into essential topics such as digital publishing, audiobook growth, and the role of AI in content creation. With targeted workshops on audiobook production, content marketing, and sustainable publishing, the conference promises practical insights and valuable networking opportunities for professionals aiming to innovate and expand in today’s dynamic publishing market.