Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference Launches Book2Screen Challenge
Mohammad Ali (@ChaudhryMAli88) | September 07, 2026
SHARJAH, (UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News / WAM - 07th Sep, 2026) - The Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference (SACC) 2026 has launched the Book2Screen Challenge, a new initiative offering Arab publishers a chance to explore their published books and stories for screen adaptation.
Submissions are open until October 1st. The challenge aims to bridge the gap between publishing and animation by showcasing how Arabic books can be transformed into diverse content formats. Publishers can submit novels, graphic novels, children's books, and literary series for consideration as potential animated films or series.
Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of SACC, stated:
"Arab publishers possess a vast collection of stories, characters, and worlds that extend beyond the book. Adapting them requires unique tools and a new approach to presenting them to the content industry. The Book2Screen Challenge provides publishers with an opportunity to unlock this potential and showcase their works in formats suitable for animation and content creators."
She further emphasized:
"We believe Arabic books contain captivating stories that can reach audiences worldwide. The diversity and richness of Arabic literature offer content creators a wealth of material for appealing works targeting diverse audiences and markets. By connecting publishers with animation experts, we aim to open doors for these stories to resonate globally."
Each publisher can submit one title in either Arabic or English through the conference's website. Entries should include:
- Book details, story, characters, and visual elements.
- Justification for its suitability as an animated film or series.
- Market performance indicators.
- Confirmation of holding audiovisual adaptation rights.
Prizes:
- First place: AED 15,000
- Second place: AED 7,000
- Third place: AED 4,000
Winners will receive support to present their projects professionally and visually to the content industry. The first-place winner will produce a professional book trailer with an Arab animation studio, while second- and third-place winners will develop pitch decks.
This challenge is part of SACC's efforts to foster links between publishing and visual content industries, creating fresh opportunities for Arabic intellectual property.