Saudi Publishing House Dar Waraqa Leading the Charge for Creativity
In a bid to usher in a “golden age of creativity” in Saudi Arabia, the publishing house Dar Waraqa is taking the children’s literature world by storm with its innovative and culturally rich products.
Founded in 2019 by Layal Idriss and her husband Mohammed Hasanain, Dar Waraqa has quickly made a name for itself with its aesthetically-pleasing books that showcase the Kingdom’s rich culture and heritage.
From Visual Storytelling to Global Recognition
Idriss, a visual storyteller and educator, has produced over 100 books and products, aiming to revolutionize children’s publishing in the MENA region. With a background in media arts and animation, Idriss is challenging the conventional norms of creative entrepreneurship by emphasizing culturally relevant storytelling for children.
Driven by her passion for reading and storytelling, Idriss aims to inspire future generations with high-quality art and innovative narratives where Arab children can see themselves as heroes.
The Journey of Dar Waraqa
Based in Jeddah, Dar Waraqa offers publishing and distribution services globally, catering to clients who struggle to transform digital creations into tangible products. The company serves as a one-stop shop, guiding clients from the initial idea stage to the final product, including post-production, distribution, and marketing.
Collaborating closely with Radish House, Dar Waraqa selects artists to create magical stories, providing extensive guidance and training to young talent from Saudi Arabia and around the world.
Innovative Projects and Collaborations
One of Dar Waraqa’s notable collaborations is with the Saudi Culinary Commission to create the “Aklana” series, highlighting recipes and stories from the Kingdom’s 13 provinces. The series aims to preserve traditional recipes in a fun and innovative way, building a community of creatives who celebrate Saudi Arabia’s food, culture, and daily life.
The “Aklana” series has gained international recognition, with translations in Mandarin Chinese and Korean, debuting at international book fairs. Plans are underway to translate the series into various languages to showcase Saudi Arabia’s diverse culture worldwide.
A Glimpse into the Future
Looking ahead, Dar Waraqa continues to push boundaries in children’s publishing, with interactive storytelling experiences and panel discussions to engage audiences. The company’s commitment to creativity and innovation sets the stage for a new era in Saudi children’s books, promising to inspire and entertain readers of all ages and backgrounds.