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RIYADH: The Riyadh International Book Fair continues to be a showcase for ideas, culture, and innovation. At this year’s fair, which ended Friday, several booths stood out for their contributions to the literary and cultural scene.  

One of the most eye-catching was Samawi, a Saudi platform looking to transform the publishing landscape through its print-on-demand model. 

The platform allows authors to upload their books, which are then printed only when a customer places an order. This model significantly reduces costs for writers, who no longer need to stockpile large print runs. In addition, Samawi connects bookstores directly with authors, opening more channels for distribution and visibility. 

“We serve writers, publishers, and readers by providing technical support for the publishing industry, whether it’s reading, writing, printing, or digital and audio books,” Khaled Bamohamad, CEO of Samawi, told Arab News. 

The platform offers flexible printing and distribution options. And the Samawi Reader app provides access to thousands of e-books and audiobooks. 

“We started in 2022 with e-books. Today we have 20,000 e-books and more than 5,000 audiobooks,” Bamohamad said. “With each exhibition, we introduce new services such as reading-speed analysis and enhanced reading experiences.” 

Another notable presence at the fair was the Saudipedia booth. Launched in 2024, Saudipedia is a multilingual digital encyclopedia dedicated to documenting every aspect of ������Ƶ — from culture, economy, and Vision 2030 to sports, entertainment, and politics. 

Hassan Al-Qarni, editor-in-chief of Saudipedia, told Arab News: “We aim to provide reliable, original information to local, Arab, and international audiences.”  

Available in Arabic, English, French, German, Russian, and Chinese, Saudipedia is billed as a comprehensive reference for anyone seeking to learn more about the country. Its presence at the book fair highlights the growing role of digital-knowledge platforms in promoting Saudi culture globally. 

Another booth showcased the work of Nizar Al-Sheikh, a specialist in comparative jurisprudence and the landmarks of the Prophet’s biography. 

Al-Sheikh has published around 35 works on the subject. His latest is “The Tourist Guide for Visitors to Al-Ahsa and the Eastern Province,” which explores Prophet Muhammad’s visit to the titular region on a trade journey before the revelation of the message. 

“The work documents the villages and cities the Prophet passed through, the presence of the caliphs in the region, and the significance of its historical sites. It is comprehensive and covers many of the cities mentioned by the Prophet,” Al-Sheikh said. 

RIYADH: Manga Arabia, part of the Saudi Research and Media Group, announced the launch of its Wa’ed initiative during the Riyadh International Book Fair this week.
The initiative is intended to champion rising Saudi and Arab talent in comic-book and manga creation by showcasing their work to Arab readers via the company’s digital channels.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the Wa’ed program forms part of Manga Arabia’s broader vision to “cultivate homegrown creators and develop their capabilities within a professional framework that resonates with younger generations.”
It “focuses on identifying promising creative voices and offering them exposure to expansive readership through the publication of original stories rooted in local and regional cultural heritage.”
During the initial rollout, Manga Arabia introduced multiple narratives developed by more than 30 up-and-coming illustrators and storytellers.
The company leverages its substantial domestic and worldwide footprint through two flagship publications — “Manga Arabia for Youth” and “Manga Arabia for Kids” — offered in both digital and physical editions.
With downloads exceeding 12 million from more than 190 nations, Manga Arabia has established itself as a premier gateway for Arab storytelling to international audiences.
Additionally, the firm runs the Manga Arabia Competition to showcase budding writers and illustrators. Across three cycles, the contest has drawn participation from more than 1,500 contestants, distributing prizes valued at more than SAR250,000 ($66,654).
Faris Al-Rashoud, deputy general manager of Manga Arabia, said: “Wa’ed marks a significant advancement in supporting emerging Saudi and Arab manga creators. Backing national and regional talent early in their careers represents a strategic long-term commitment to creative content development. We take pride in featuring works by talented newcomers across our platforms, connecting them with extensive audiences and creating pathways toward professional growth and distinction.
“Nurturing young creators forms the foundation for expanding Arab influence in the global manga landscape. This program aims to create an enabling ecosystem, similar to how international productions have elevated their artists to prominence,” he continued.