UAEBBY hosts EBBY as Guest of Honour at 16th SCRF

A milestone in Arab cooperation in children’s literature

The UAEBBY continues to consolidate its role in building bridges of cultural communication between peoples by hosting the EBBY. This hosting marks a new milestone in Arab cooperation within the children’s literature sector. The EBBY, as an active branch of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), showcases its efforts to promote reading and develop Egypt’s children’s book industry through a joint pavilion with UAEBBY. The EBBY delegation will also host sessions and events connecting young readers with leading writers and illustrators.

Distinguished Egyptian delegation showcases literary talent

The EBBY delegation includes several notable figures: Dr. Ibrahim Shalabi, a young adult novelist addressing identity and adolescence; illustrator Mohamed Wahba, known for manga-inspired styles and panoramic depictions of Egyptian life; and Haitham Shukri, a storyteller blending performance and narrative. Dr. Nadia El Khouly, Chair of the Board and a Professor at Cairo University, is a prominent advocate for youth empowerment through literature.

UAEBBY reaffirms commitment to cultural exchange

Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of UAEBBY, expressed enthusiasm for hosting EBBY, citing its cultural depth and impact on children’s literature. She affirmed the Board's commitment to regional and international cooperation and emphasised literature as a bridge for mutual understanding. Hosting EBBY aligns with the UAE’s spirit of openness and cultural diversity.

Platform for mutual learning and cultural insight

Al Aqroubi added that the hosting allows audiences at the festival to explore diverse literary experiences while providing UAE-based writers and illustrators a chance to exchange knowledge. Guests will also gain insights into the UAE’s thriving cultural scene, particularly in children’s literature, and will engage directly with festival attendees.

EBBY welcomes opportunity to strengthen regional presence

Dr. Nadia El Khouly voiced EBBY’s honor in being the festival’s guest of honor, viewing the participation as a way to elevate Egyptian children’s literature internationally. She noted the educational and aesthetic value of Egypt’s books and the importance of sharing these with a wider audience.

Longstanding UAE–Egypt literary cooperation

El Khouly highlighted ongoing cooperation between the Emirati and Egyptian boards, which includes expertise exchange and collaborative programs. She sees this hosting as an opportunity for festival visitors to explore the richness of Egyptian culture and literature, brought to life by creators carrying messages of humanity and unity.

Diverse programme of activities and meetings

The hosting includes daily events such as storytelling sessions and art workshops led by EBBY members. Meetings with the Emirates Publishers Association, Kalimat Group, Sharjah International Literary Rights Agency, and others aim to explore collaboration. The Egyptian delegation will also tour key cultural institutions like Sharjah Public Library and the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

A legacy of cultural visits and literacy initiatives

Earlier this year, during the Cairo International Book Fair, the two councils collaborated on cultural visits to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, hospitals, and schools. Activities blended reading with entertainment and emotional support, as part of the “Once Upon a Time” initiative, which distributed hundreds of books to children and reinforced the transformative power of reading.