Manga Arabia Launches Programme to Support Arab Comic Book Creators
The initiative will publish original stories rooted in local heritage via Manga Arabia’s platforms, with titles exceeding 12 million downloads in over 190 countries.
Manga Arabia launched the Wa’ed programme at the Riyadh International Book Fair to identify and showcase Saudi and Arab comic-book creators through its digital platforms. The initiative is designed to champion rising talent by bringing original work to Arab readers and creating pathways for creators to reach wider audiences.
The programme focuses on publishing original stories rooted in local and regional cultural heritage, and offering exposure to expansive readerships across Manga Arabia’s channels. In its initial rollout, Manga Arabia introduced multiple narratives created by more than 30 up-and-coming illustrators and storytellers.
Part of the Saudi Research and Media Group, Manga Arabia distributes two flagship publications — Manga Arabia for Youth and Manga Arabia for Kids — in digital and print, with downloads exceeding 12 million from more than 190 countries. The company said the Wa’ed programme aligns with its broader vision to cultivate homegrown creators within a professional framework that resonates with younger generations.
Manga Arabia also runs the Manga Arabia Competition to showcase emerging writers and illustrators. Across three cycles, the contest has drawn participation from more than 1,500 contestants, with prizes valued at more than SAR 250,000 (USD 66,654).
