Saudi Research & Media Group (SRMG), Saudi Arabia’s leading media company, announced that they launched the first issue of the Manga Arabia Youth magazine, the first Arabic-speaking community-based manga magazine, on Dec 17, 2021. It will introduce Arab youth – aged 15 years and above, to original Saudi and Arabic Manga characters along with adaptations of Japanese characters.

The inaugural issue debuts with original stories like Long Live the Dead, and Wanderers. These works focus on the themes of values ​​such as courage, friendship, and cooperation, and the importance of finding your true self.

In addition to the original Arabic content, the magazine features adapted famous Japanese works through content licensing partnerships with publishing giants including Shogakukan, Shueisha, KADOKAWA, and Kodansha. Among those translated works are fan-favorites Ajin, Vinland Saga, The Promised Neverland, Haikyuu, and Attack on Titan.

Manga Arabia Youth will be accessible as a monthly print issue as well as a weekly digital version that can be read and downloaded for free via a mobile application.

The magazine aims to spread the culture of reading and writing fiction amongst Arab youth and ignite their creativity. All works were produced in compliance with international standards, ensuring legality, safety, and reliability.

As a commemorative event, a “Manga Glass House” has been set up locally, and events such as workshops, talks, illustration corners, and manga cafes were hosted.

Jomana R. Al-Rashid, CEO of SRMG stated in regards to the launch, “The launch of Manga Arabia Youth magazine marks the second phase in the Manga Arabia project, following the successful launch of Manga Arabia Kids magazine. This is yet another step in our group’s transformation, growth, and expansion strategy. We believe in empowering Arab content creators and spreading the culture of reading and writing fiction. The launch of Manga Arabia Youth is indicative of our commitment to sparking creativity among the region’s youth, helping to develop their skills through training and workshops. It is a strategic investment in a brighter future.”

As part of the Manga Arabia project, both Manga Arabia Kids, which was launched in September and Manga Arabia Youth will be distinguished from each other through content developed to target the relevant age group for each title.

Source: Animation Business Journal, Arab news