.png)
Summary
Menassah Distribution Company recently completed a successful tour of three major book fairs in the Middle East. The company represented the United Arab Emirates at events in Al Dhafra, Cairo, and Damascus to promote local authors and publishers. By showcasing more than 1,270 different book titles, Menassah aimed to share Emirati culture with a wider audience and help local stories reach readers across the globe. This effort is part of a larger plan to make the UAE a central hub for books and creative ideas.
Main Impact
The primary impact of this tour is the increased visibility for Emirati writers and publishing houses. By bringing thousands of books to international events, Menassah has created new opportunities for local creators to find readers outside of their home country. This move helps strengthen the publishing industry in the UAE and builds stronger cultural ties between the Emirates and other Arab nations. It ensures that Emirati literature is a key part of the regional conversation about education and art.
Key Details
What Happened
At the start of 2026, Menassah Distribution Company took part in three significant cultural gatherings. The first was the Al Dhafra Book Festival, which focused on encouraging people in the local community to read more. Next, the company traveled to the Cairo International Book Fair in Egypt. This is one of the largest book events in the world, attracting millions of visitors and thousands of exhibitors. Finally, the team attended the Damascus International Book Fair in Syria, where they focused on a wide range of topics, including science and children’s literature.
Important Numbers and Facts
The scale of these events shows how much work went into the tour. At the Al Dhafra Book Festival, held from January 19 to 25, Menassah displayed 403 titles from 81 different local publishers. In Cairo, from late January to early February, the company brought 482 titles from 102 publishers, totaling 2,250 individual books. This was a major feat, as the Cairo fair hosted over 1,400 publishing houses from 83 countries. In Damascus, the company presented 386 titles from 49 publishers, covering everything from poetry to educational books for kids.
Key Highlights
- Completed a tour of major book fairs in Al Dhafra, Cairo, and Damascus.
- Represented the UAE to promote local authors and publishers internationally.
- Showcased over 1,270 unique book titles to a wider audience.
- Shared Emirati culture and stories with global readers.
- Increased visibility and opportunities for Emirati writers and publishing houses.
- Strengthened cultural ties between the UAE and other Arab nations.
- Supported the UAE's goal to become a global hub for books and creative ideas.
Book Fair Location Key Focus Al Dhafra Book Fair UAE Local author promotion Cairo International Book Fair Egypt Regional visibility Damascus International Book Fair Syria Cultural exchange Total Book Titles 1,270+
Background and Context
The UAE has been working hard to grow its creative industries. Books are seen as a vital way to preserve national identity while also connecting with people from different backgrounds. Menassah Distribution Company was created to solve a common problem: helping small and medium-sized publishers get their books into stores and fairs. Without a distribution partner, many talented authors might never see their work leave their home city. By acting as a bridge, Menassah makes it easier for the world to see what Emirati thinkers and storytellers are producing.
Public or Industry Reaction
Rashid Al Kous, the Director General of Menassah, explained that these events are about more than just selling products. He noted that participating in these fairs helps the company understand what readers in different countries are looking for. The reaction from the publishing community has been positive, as these events allow local publishers to reach a much larger market than they could on their own. Industry experts see this as a way to build a well-informed generation that values its own culture while staying open to new ideas from others.
What This Means Going Forward
Looking ahead, Menassah plans to continue its active role in the global book scene. The company recently had a massive presence at the Sharjah International Book Fair, where it offered access to over 11,000 books. This shows that the company is not slowing down. In the future, we can expect to see Emirati books appearing in more international markets. This will likely lead to more book signings, translations, and partnerships between UAE authors and global publishing brands. The goal is to keep the momentum going and ensure that the UAE remains a leader in the world of literature.
Final Take
The success of Menassah at these three major book fairs proves that there is a strong hunger for Emirati stories and knowledge. By supporting local publishers and bringing their work to the world stage, the company is doing more than just moving books; it is building a lasting cultural legacy. As these authors gain more fans across the Arab world and beyond, the UAE’s influence as a center for creativity and learning will only continue to grow.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Menassah Distribution Company?
It is a company based in the UAE that helps local publishers and authors distribute their books to a wider audience, both locally and internationally.
Which book fairs did the company attend recently?
The company participated in the Al Dhafra Book Festival in the UAE, the Cairo International Book Fair in Egypt, and the Damascus International Book Fair in Syria.
Why is it important for Emirati books to be at international fairs?
It helps share Emirati culture with the world, supports the growth of the local publishing industry, and allows authors to reach thousands of new readers they wouldn't otherwise meet.