EPA advances global vision for children at Bologna Book Fair 2026

Held in Bologna, Italy, from 13 to 16 April, the Bologna Children's Book Fair is widely recognised as the world's leading event for publishing for children and young adults. It brings together an elite group of publishers, authors, illustrators, rights agents, translators, and content specialists from around the globe, making it a key platform for rights exchange and for exploring the latest trends shaping this vital sector.

The Association's participation builds on its ongoing efforts to empower Emirati publishers to access international markets, forge strategic partnerships with global counterparts, and gain insight into leading international practices in children's publishing, thereby contributing to the development of creative content tailored to younger generations.

During its participation, the Association is spotlighting a selection of specialised Emirati publishing houses, including Alamkoum Publishing & Distribution, which offer innovative educational experiences for children that blend storytelling with play; Mimo Quirks, recognised for its work in visual storytelling and artistic design; and Ghaf Publishing, which seeks to strengthen the presence of books and foster a culture of reading through high-quality publications inspired by local identity.

His Excellency Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, said our participation in the Bologna Children's Book Fair aims to advance the UAE's publishing industry and showcase local content. It also supports Emirati publishers' global presence by fostering cultural exchange and building partnerships with leading children's publishers worldwide, boosting Arabic content's development and competitiveness.

He added: "The fair is a strategic platform for anticipating the future of children's publishing and for engaging with the rapid transformations shaping this vital sector. It enables our publishers to develop more innovative, competitive, and sustainable models that help build generations of readers connected to knowledge, an objective at the core of our strategic priorities."

The Emirates Publishers Association actively participates in international cultural events to support the UAE's publishing industry and boost its global presence. It builds partnerships, exchanges expertise, and helps publishers expand Arabic content worldwide. These efforts enhance the publishing ecosystem, helping it adapt to global changes and reinforcing the UAE's role as a regional and international hub for publishing.