Source : WAM
Sharjah is strengthening its global cultural presence with the launch of the newly renamed Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference (SACC), an expanded evolution of the Sharjah Animation Conference that underscores the emirate’s commitment to supporting creative industries and promoting storytelling in all its forms.
The 2026 edition will introduce a dedicated Animation and Comics Market, marking a significant step in broadening industry opportunities for creators. Scheduled to take place from 26 to 29 March 2026, the fourth edition represents a major milestone in the event’s development. Spanning a venue three times larger than the previous year, SACC 2026 will feature an expanded programme with larger stages, broader exhibition spaces, additional hands-on workshops, and immersive experiences.
As part of its expanded scope, SACC will also launch the first official census of Arab illustrators, authors, artists, animators, and creatives across the Middle East and North Africa. The initiative aims to establish the region’s first comprehensive mapping of the creative community, inviting Arab creators to contribute to building a unified and sustainable Arab creative ecosystem.
Organised annually by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), SACC has grown into one of the region’s leading platforms for illustrators, animators, publishers, producers, and emerging creatives. The previous edition, held in May 2025, attracted more than 5,000 visitors from around the world and featured over 70 international experts discussing the growing convergence of AI-driven innovation and human creativity.
Khoula Al Mujaini, Executive Director of SACC, reaffirmed that the conference continues to build on the cultural vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, under the guidance of H.H Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).
“Sharjah has always believed in the power of creativity to drive knowledge, innovation, and cultural exchange. Through the Sharjah Animation and Comics Conference, we are not only connecting creators from across the region and the world, but also nurturing a vibrant ecosystem where Arab talent can thrive, collaborate, and shine on the global stage. SACC 2026 represents our commitment to building a future where storytelling and imagination shape industries, inspire communities, and elevate the region’s creative voice internationally,” she said.
