Menassah Distribution Company and the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) have signed a memorandum of understanding to gain access to the list of winning books from the Etisalat Children’s Book Award, organised by the Board and sponsored by E&, the world’s leading technology and investment group. This agreement aims to forge partnerships for distributing these award-winning books, thereby improving accessibility for children and young people within and beyond the United Arab Emirates.

The signing took place during the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF) 2024, continuing until May 12 at the Expo Center Sharjah. The agreement grants Menassah the opportunity to collaborate with publishers of past and present Etisalat Children’s Book Award winners, exploring potential partnerships and agreements to distribute these books across various channels, including libraries, stores, book fairs, exhibitions, and events organised or participated in by the company. Menassah will allocate space to promote and sell these books, enhancing access for young readers, educators, and the general public.

Marwa Al Aqroubi, President of the UAEBBY, said: “We are delighted to sign this agreement, which amplifies the presence of the Etisalat Children’s Book Award and expands the reach of its winning publications worldwide. This agreement promotes access to high-quality content, illustrations, and production and fosters a love for reading among children and young people.”

Rashid Al-Kous, General Director, Menassah Distribution Company, emphasised Menassah’s commitment to supporting Emirati publishers, promoting Arabic content, and facilitating market access for all publishers in the UAE. He highlighted that collaboration with Etisalat Children’s Book Award winners would enhance the distribution and visibility of these outstanding publications.

Established in November 2022, Menassah Distribution Company aims to support Emirati and Arab publishers and authors by providing global circulation for their works, serving as a gateway for international publishers into the Arab market. The platform seeks to enrich reading culture and provide consumers of Arabic content with easy access to a diverse range of books.

The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY) is the national chapter of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY), established in 1953 in Switzerland. Founded in 2010 by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, UAEBBY is dedicated to fostering a love of reading and strengthening the bond between children and books.

Since its establishment in 2009, the Etisalat Children’s Book Award has earned widespread acclaim locally and internationally. Over 15 years, it has played a pivotal role in advancing the children’s book industry, enhancing the quality of Arabic language literature, and captivating children and young adults with its diverse range of text, illustrations, and production quality offerings.