Publications of the Department of Culture and Information in Sharjah: Foundations and Future Prospects

Abstract

This article examines the publications of the Department of Culture and Information in Sharjah by linking the department’s cultural vision with its publishing project and future development prospects. The author argues that publishing activity in Sharjah has accompanied the emirate’s economic, social, and cultural transformations and has been guided by a cultural vision that combines heritage, modernity, and openness to knowledge. The article reviews the types of publications issued by the department, including works by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, historical and literary works, introductory booklets, annuals, magazines, newsletters, and publications associated with cultural events, awards, and symposia. It also presents quantitative indicators of the department’s output and discusses the quality of publications, selection and approval standards, editing, production, distribution, and the cultural responsibility of publishing. The article concludes with a future-oriented vision emphasizing the continued development of Al-Rafid magazine, Iqra annual, publication series, award-related works, and theatre publications, while strengthening editorial, intellectual, and planning standards that support Sharjah’s cultural publishing presence.