Navigating the Self-Publishing Landscape in the UAE

In an age where everything is evolving, the literary world has also undergone a significant transformation. Whether you have written a psychological thriller, a romance novella or self-help books, no more waiting for months to find a good literary agent to bring your book to life - cue self-publishing.

However, it is not as simple as it looks, especially for newbie authors in the UAE. While the publishing method does give you freedom to have creative control, it is a bit more difficult than traditional publishing.

If you want to share your stories with the world, then understanding the self-publishing landscape is essential. It's a good thing I'm there to help. I have gone through the process of publishing my book as an author in the UAE. So I know a thing or two.

Just make sure to stick to the blog if you want to learn.

Why Self-Publish in the UAE?

Before we tackle the landscape of self-publishing, I am sure most of you must be wondering: Why Self-Publish in the UAE?

Well, it is simple. This country has always been a cultural hub, with a growing population of readers and writers from different phases of life.

With the traditional publishing industry being selective and slow, many aspiring authors are turning to self-publishing.

The reason?

It is fast, flexible and gives you control. Moreover, there are other reasons why self-publishing is appealing:

• You don’t need a literary agent or publisher.
• Furthermore, there are faster publishing timelines.
• You get full creative freedom and control.
• Moreover, it is accessible to both local and international people.

Plus, events like the Sharjah International Book Fair and Emirates Airline Festival of Literature show that book culture is thriving. And there has never been a better time to join in.

How to Self-Publish in the UAE?

Step 1: Understand The Legal Side ( Don’t Skip)

Before you hit “Publish”, here is a not-so-exciting but super essential part: understanding the legal side and getting ISBN approval from the National Media Council.

Here is what you need:

• A Valid Emirates ID or visa.
• Furthermore, a manuscript copy for review
• A Summary of your book
• No offensive content, including political, religious or culturally inappropriate.

The UAE is supportive of the arts. However, they also value cultural and social peace. Hence, you need to ensure that your book aligns with the local guidelines.

Step 2: Choose the Self-Publishing Platform

Here comes the fun part: Choosing the self-publishing platform. Here are some of the best ones that work in the UAE:

1. Amazon:It is the Beyoncé of self-publishing platforms. KDP allows you to publish print-on-demand paperbacks and eBooks free of cost. Furthermore, since your book goes live on Amazon, you will have a free audience. The best part is that you get 70% of royalties on eBooks.
2. IngramSpark: If you want to find your book in bookstores or need it in better quality paperbacks, IngramSpark has your back. They even distribute to retailers like Barnes Noble and indie bookshops. Additionally, from distribution to over 40,000 retailers to professional ISBN and formatting services and high-quality print, it has many perks.
3. SmashWords, Draft2Digital and Lulu: These platforms are great alternative options for eBook publishing and wider distribution beyond Amazon. It is perfect if you want your book in Apple Books or Kobo.

Step 3: Make Your Book Look Good

The phrase Don’t Judge A Book By Its Coveris not true cause readers do judge the book by how it looks. I am one of those who do that. So if you ask me, then I would definitely pass on the book that looks like it was designed in Microsoft Paint in 2002.

Hence, you need to put in effort with this. Here is what you need to focus on:

Cover Design: You can consider designing it yourself. Furthermore, you can consider hiring professionals to do it for you.

Interior Formatting: Tools like Vellum or Reedsy are your best friend for this.

Proofreading/Editing: You need a fresh perspective. Hence, you can ask your friend or even hire eBook Ghostwriting Specialists in UAE to refine the quality of your book. Just make sure not to skip it.

Do you know I almost published my book with a typo in the title? Thank goodness for my grammar-obsessed friend, I avoided public embarrassment.

Step 4: Market Like A Pro ( Even If You Are An Introvert)

Publishing the book is just the beginning. Now, it’s time to get people to buy it. Publishing the book is only the start. You don’t want it to sit it out. Instead, you want the people to buy it. Hence, you need to market it like a pro. Here is what you need to do:

• Start with your friends, family, coworkers and that guy you met at brunch last week.
• Moreover, ask for reviews on Amazon and Goodreads.
• Go public and launch your book on Instagram or TikTok.
• Moreover, offer free chapters to build an email list.

For those residing in the UAE, make sure to get featured in local publications like Khaleej Times or Gulf News. Additionally, sell through BookTopia. You can even consider collaborating with bookstores and cafes for small launch events. Furthermore, if you are struggling and need some help, consider connecting with the GhostWriting Agency. They can help you out. Remember, the more personal your story, the more people will connect with it.

Bonus: Self-Publishing in Arabic (Or Both)

Well, that is wonderful! There is a growing market for Arabic fiction, non-fiction and poetry. Additionally, Amazon KDP now supports Arabic and Local publishers like Dar Al Jadeed or Noon books can help distribute your Arabic books.

Publishing in both English and Arabic? That is even better as it can help you double your reach in a multicultural country like the UAE.

Wrapping Up: Publish Your Book Now!

In a nutshell, for those wondering if self-publishing is legal in the UAE, the answer is yes! Whether you want to leave a legacy or bring your story to life, self-publishing gives you the freedom to make it happen on your own terms. Here is what you need to do to succeed:

• Know the legal stuff
• Pick the right publishing platform
• Make your book look professional
• Market like it's your need business
• Tap into the UAE’s vibrant community.

Above all, don’t let the fear stop you from chasing the dream. You don’t have to be perfect; you just need to be published.

And above all—don’t let fear stop you. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be published.