Manga Arabia unveils Wa’ed program to nurture Arab comic-book talent

Manga Arabia, part of the Saudi Research and Media Group, announced the launch of its Wa’ed initiative during the Riyadh International Book Fair this week. (SPA)

• The initiative is intended to champion rising Saudi and Arab talent in comic-book and manga creation
• The company leverages its substantial domestic and worldwide footprint through two flagship publications

RIYADH: Manga Arabia, part of the Saudi Research and Media Group, announced the launch of its Wa’ed initiative during the Riyadh International Book Fair this week.
The initiative is intended to champion rising Saudi and Arab talent in comic-book and manga creation by showcasing their work to Arab readers via the company’s digital channels.
The Saudi Press Agency reported that the Wa’ed program forms part of Manga Arabia’s broader vision to “cultivate homegrown creators and develop their capabilities within a professional framework that resonates with younger generations.”
It “focuses on identifying promising creative voices and offering them exposure to expansive readership through the publication of original stories rooted in local and regional cultural heritage.”
During the initial rollout, Manga Arabia introduced multiple narratives developed by more than 30 up-and-coming illustrators and storytellers.
The company leverages its substantial domestic and worldwide footprint through two flagship publications — “Manga Arabia for Youth” and “Manga Arabia for Kids” — offered in both digital and physical editions.
With downloads exceeding 12 million from more than 190 nations, Manga Arabia has established itself as a premier gateway for Arab storytelling to international audiences.
Additionally, the firm runs the Manga Arabia Competition to showcase budding writers and illustrators. Across three cycles, the contest has drawn participation from more than 1,500 contestants, distributing prizes valued at more than SAR250,000 ($66,654).
Faris Al-Rashoud, deputy general manager of Manga Arabia, said: “Wa’ed marks a significant advancement in supporting emerging Saudi and Arab manga creators. Backing national and regional talent early in their careers represents a strategic long-term commitment to creative content development. We take pride in featuring works by talented newcomers across our platforms, connecting them with extensive audiences and creating pathways toward professional growth and distinction.
“Nurturing young creators forms the foundation for expanding Arab influence in the global manga landscape. This program aims to create an enabling ecosystem, similar to how international productions have elevated their artists to prominence,” he continued.