Publishers At Al Ain Book Festival 2024: Technology Supports Publishing Industry And Creates A New Generation Of Readers

Publishers participating in the Al Ain Book Festival 2024, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), asserted the importance of leveraging modern technology to support the publishing industry, highlighting the need to invest in the next generation of writers to deliver high-quality content that keeps pace with the rapid developments of the modern era.

Several publishers participating in the festival, which runs until 23 November, discussed the impact of the rapid technological advancements and the ubiquitous presence of social media, which have led to fundamental transformations in the publishing industry, including writing, printing, publishing, and distribution. They emphasised the need to adapt to the requirements of the modern era in order to meet the needs of new readers who increasingly rely on modern technology.

Commenting on the role that digital platforms and social media play in promoting books and supporting publishing activities, Ahmed Omar, CEO of Smart Amazon Publishing and Distribution,said:“Social media has become an integrated promotional platform for authors, allowing publishers to reach a wider audience worldwide.Modern tools have provided young writers with the opportunity to showcase their work directly to their audience, which has facilitated the development of a new generation of creatives.’

For his part, Tarek AlSebai, Director of AlSebai Publishing and Distribution, highlighted the importance of using technology to inspire children,ignite their passion for reading, and enhance their knowledge and awareness. “We are committed to leveraging modern technology to produce interactive books and educational apps that cater to younger generations,” he said. “The goal is not only to promote reading, but also to connect children to the world of books in an innovative way”.

Commenting on the use of artificial intelligence and its role in publishing, Samer Asaad, Director of AlAbqari Publishing and Distribution,noted that AI and augmented reality have provided publishers with a unique opportunity to offer interactive content for children. However, he expressed concern that excessive reliance on digital books may negatively impact the focus and imagination of new generations. “There is a risk that reading could become a superficial experience driven only by visual effects, rather than a deep intellectual journey that helps children develop their imagination and reflective abilities,”Asaad explained.

Meanwhile, Ali Fouad, Sales Manager at Dar AlQalam Publishers,stressed that social media is an effective tool for promoting books. “Modern communication platforms have enabled quick access to a wide and diverse audience at lower costs compared to traditional methods,” he said. “We benefit from digital platforms to announce our new releases and organise marketing campaigns targeting interested readers directly, which increases the chances of books spreading and enhances their commercial success.”