His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has issued a directive to waive participation fees for Sudanese publishers at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair.
The decision underscores efforts by the Sharjah leaders to support Sudanese writers by expanding their reach to wider audiences and to help Arab publishers, who are facing regional economic and humanitarian challenges.
"The initiative furthers Sharjah’s mission to protect Arab cultural heritage and support creative talents across the region, including Sudan," highighted Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).
"We want to ensure books always serve as a bridge between communities. Sudanese culture is a core part of Arab identity, and through this directive, we aim to give them opportunities to continue their work and maintain a strong presence at Arab book fairs."
The initiative builds on a series of measures Sharjah has taken in recent years to support Arab publishers affected by economic and political pressures, based on the belief that books are essential to preserving cultural identity and protecting the region’s intellectual heritage.
As many as 497 vehicles have been seized over unpaid traffic fines and expired registrations during the first half of 2026, Dubai Police announced on Sunday, adding that some penalties amounted to "tens of thousands of dirhams".
The UAE continues to develop an integrated ecosystem to "empower the youth with skills and knowledge needed to lead the future", highlighted Dr. Sultan bin Saif Al Neyadi, Minister of State for Youth Affairs.
More than 100,000 people have taken part in the second edition of Dubai Mallathon, collectively recording over 220 million steps since the community fitness initiative began in June.