Sharjah, Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) has launched the second phase of its Publishers Platform as part of its participation in the ongoing 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026), where it is hosting nine registered companies to showcase their publishing services and titles, forge business partnerships and engage with readers.
Held from November 4 to 15 at Expo Centre Sharjah, the fair is providing SPC Free Zone with an opportunity to connect its registered companies with publishers, industry professionals and readers. Its pavilion features a business-to-business (B2B) section hosting four companies specialising in publishing-related services and a business-to-consumer (B2C) section where five publishers are showcasing their titles.
Digital platform connects publishers with global markets
The second phase of the Publishers Platform brings together publishers and companies specialising in publishing-related services, offering digital tools to facilitate the buying and selling of publishing rights, showcase titles through direct online links and enable virtual participation in international book fairs.
The platform also allows publishers to expand their networks, connect with potential partners in different markets and explore opportunities for book distribution and rights trading, helping them maintain business relationships beyond physical book fairs and industry events.
Saif Al Suwaidi: Turning industry connections into growth opportunities
Saif Al Suwaidi, Director of SPC Free Zone, said: “Access to integrated publishing services helps publishers grow and expand their reach across markets. We aim to provide an environment that brings together the services, partnerships and expertise industry professionals need to manage their resources efficiently and build sustainable businesses with the potential to expand.”
He added: “SIBF gives us an opportunity to connect with publishers from different markets and gain a better understanding of their needs and ambitions. Our participation this year also enables registered companies to establish new relationships and connect directly with readers, increasing the commercial value of their presence at the fair and strengthening their position in the publishing industry.”
Four companies showcase publishing, printing and distribution services
The B2B section brings together four companies offering complementary services in book production, content development and distribution.
Lughati Bookstore, which specialises in children’s and young adult books, educational resources and school book fairs, is participating to strengthen partnerships with publishers and educational institutions and expand access to children’s content in schools.
Lightning Source is showcasing its print-on-demand and distribution services, which enable publishers to produce books according to demand, reduce storage and inventory costs, and reach multiple markets without committing to large print runs.
Frost Feather Media is presenting its visual and digital content production services and interactive experiences, exploring opportunities to collaborate with publishers and cultural institutions on new content formats and audience engagement.
Big Bad Wolf, which specialises in organising affordable book sales, is seeking to strengthen ties with publishers, book suppliers and distribution partners while exploring opportunities to bring books to wider audiences.
Five publishing houses showcase their titles to visitors
The B2C section hosts five publishers: Rafahe, Sohub Publishing and Distribution, Dar Almohtawa Alarabie, YZness Publishing House and Sun of Tolerance for Publishing and Distribution.
Sohub Publishing and Distribution is showcasing educational books for children with autism and their families, alongside inspirational stories about people with disabilities. YZness Publishing House is presenting children’s books and creative learning content, with both publishers seeking to engage with families, educators and readers interested in educational resources.
Dar Almohtawa Alarabie is presenting its written, audio and visual Arabic content covering culture, education and literature, while Rafahe and Sun of Tolerance for Publishing and Distribution are showcasing their publications and connecting with readers and potential publishing partners.