Sharjah Book Authority Strengthens Global Animation Ties with Strategic Visit to Japan
Sharjah, The Gulf Observer: A high-level delegation from the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), led by Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of the Sharjah Animation Conference (SAC), has concluded a significant visit to Japan aimed at strengthening international partnerships in the animation industry.
The visit is part of SBA’s long-term strategy to position SAC as a globally recognized platform that fosters collaboration, knowledge transfer, and sustainable growth of the animation sector across the MENA region. Since its launch in 2023, SAC has become a cornerstone of the regional animation calendar, envisioned not merely as an annual event but as a year-round hub for creative exchange.
Strategic Meetings with Industry Giants
The delegation, which also included Pietro Pinetti, Artistic Director of SBA, and Moza Al Rand, Head of Events at SBA, held discussions with leading Japanese animation companies such as Nippon Animation, Oh Production, and Toei Animation. The team also met with renowned manga and book publishers Kodansha and Shogakukan, as well as major media and entertainment groups including Kadokawa Corporation and Bandai Namco.
These meetings laid the groundwork for collaborations ahead of SAC 2026, where global industry leaders will gather in Sharjah to explore investment and business opportunities. Discussions also emphasized the creation of new content for Arab audiences, blending Japanese animation expertise with Arab cultural heritage and storytelling traditions.
Innovation and Education at the Core
The delegation further engaged with AlphaCode, a pioneer in creative technology, to explore digital storytelling formats, gamification, and immersive media. These innovations will enhance SAC’s future offerings, providing audiences with interactive experiences that merge traditional animation with advanced technologies.
Educational partnerships were also a highlight of the trip. Meetings with Wacom, a global leader in digital drawing tools and a key SAC partner, explored training programs, workshops, and initiatives to empower young creatives in Sharjah with world-class resources and expertise.
A Sustainable Creative Ecosystem
Commenting on the visit, Khoula Al Mujaini emphasized the significance of Japan’s collaboration:
“This visit to Japan is a critical part of our long-term commitment to SAC. Our vision is to build a sustainable, vibrant ecosystem for animation in Sharjah and the wider Arab region. By connecting with global leaders, we are ensuring that SAC evolves as a platform for creative collaboration, cultural exchange, and knowledge transfer.”
She added that Sharjah’s growing role as a strategic gateway for global creative industries makes it an ideal hub for Japanese companies seeking to expand into the Arab world.
With SAC emerging as a vital player in the global animation and creative sector, the Japan visit marks a milestone in Sharjah’s efforts to integrate innovation, education, and cultural exchange into its long-term creative vision.
