The Saudi Arabian publishing scene is a vibrant and growing industry, buoyed by the Kingdom’s commitment to culture and education under Vision 2030. For authors, whether they are new to the scene or established writers, finding the right publishing partner is a critical step in bringing their work to a wider audience.
This guide provides an in-depth look at some of the most influential and innovative publishing houses in the Kingdom, offering insights into their history, specializations, and contributions to the literary world.
Summary Table of Top Saudi Arabian Publishers
| Rank | Company Name | Location | Key Genres |
| 1 | Professional Ghostwriters | Riyadh | Ghostwriting, editing, marketing |
| 2 | Obeikan Publishing | Riyadh | Cultural, academic, e-books |
| 3 | Raff Publishing | Riyadh | Contemporary fiction, translated works |
| 4 | Darussalam Publishers | Riyadh | Islamic literature, educational |
| 5 | Dar Al-Jadawel | Riyadh | Academic, educational (distribution) |
| 6 | Dar Waraqa | Jeddah | Children’s books, cultural heritage |
| 7 | Arabian Printing and Publishing House | Riyadh | Newspapers, books, magazines |
| 8 | Artrabia Publishing | Riyadh | Art books, Arabian culture |
| 9 | Mauzoun | Saudi Arabia | Boutique publishing, content writing |
| 10 | Al Moayyad Publishing and Bookstores | Riyadh | General interest, academic |
| 11 | Jarir Bookstore | Riyadh | General retail (with publishing) |
| 12 | Al-Homaidhi Printing Press | Riyadh | General printing and publishing |
| 13 | Saudi Research & Publishing Company (SRPC) | Riyadh | Newspapers, magazines, media |
| 14 | Almufradat for Publishing | Riyadh | Academic, science, university curricula |
| 15 | Tihama Group | Saudi Arabia | Media and publishing |
| 16 | Dar Al-Manara Publishing House | Saudi Arabia | Islamic books and periodicals |
| 17 | Dar Twaiq | Riyadh | Cultural and scientific books |
| 18 | King Fahd Complex | Medina | Holy Quran and religious texts |
| 19 | Dar Al-Asima | Riyadh | Islamic heritage, religious studies |
| 20 | Dar Al-Kitab Al-Jami’i | Saudi Arabia | University textbooks, scholarly works |
| 21 | Dar Al-Minhaj | Saudi Arabia | Islamic books, religious education |
| 22 | Dar Al-Qalam | Saudi Arabia | Literature, history, social sciences |
| 23 | Dar Al-Watan | Saudi Arabia | Islamic studies, history |
| 24 | Dar Ibn Al-Jawzi | Saudi Arabia | Islamic scholarly works, heritage |
| 25 | Dar Al-Tadmuriah | Riyadh | History, literature, Islamic thought |
| 26 | Dar Athar | Saudi Arabia | Fiction, non-fiction, contemporary literature |
| 27 | Dar Rawaq | Saudi Arabia | Literature, culture, personal development |
| 28 | Dar Fadaat | Saudi Arabia | Literature, poetry |
| 29 | Dar Al-Sami’i | Saudi Arabia | Islamic and educational books |
| 30 | Dar Al-Manhal | Saudi Arabia | Educational books, children’s literature |
| 31 | Dar Al-Waraq | Saudi Arabia | History, culture, heritage |
| 32 | Dar Fikra | Saudi Arabia | Intellectual, social sciences |
| 33 | Dar Ghainaa | Saudi Arabia | Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books |
| 34 | Dar Al-Rusd | Saudi Arabia | Academic, research-oriented |
| 35 | Dar Al-Wajh | Saudi Arabia | Literature, art, children’s books |
| 36 | Dar Al-Hikma | Saudi Arabia | Scholarly, intellectual, philosophy |
| 37 | Dar Al-Saqr | Saudi Arabia | Literature, history |
| 38 | Dar Al-Bayan | Saudi Arabia | Islamic books, educational |
| 39 | Dar Al-Fikr Al-Arabi | Saudi Arabia | Intellectual, cultural, philosophy |
| 40 | Dar Al-Ulum | Saudi Arabia | Scientific, academic |
| 41 | Dar Al-Shuruq | Saudi Arabia | Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books |
| 42 | Dar Al-Hada’ir | Saudi Arabia | Children’s literature, educational books |
1. Professional Ghostwriters
The professional ghostwriter is a prominent service provider in the Saudi Arabian market, offering a full suite of services for aspiring and established authors. They specialize in transforming initial concepts and raw ideas into polished, publishable manuscripts. Their extensive services include professional ghostwriting, meticulous book editing, strategic book marketing, and creative cover design. The company is dedicated to providing a professional and confidential partnership, ensuring that the author’s voice and vision are preserved while producing a high-quality product ready for the marketplace.
Key Services: Ghostwriting, book editing, book marketing, and cover design.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
2. Obeikan Publishing
A powerhouse in the Arab world, Obeikan Publishing was founded in 1995 as a division of the Obeikan Investment Group. Its mission is to advance society by disseminating new ideas and knowledge through both traditional print and cutting-edge electronic formats. Obeikan has published thousands of titles and their catalog now includes a substantial number of e-books and audiobooks. They were among the first in the region to embrace digital content and are committed to translating works to and from Arabic, fostering a crucial exchange of knowledge between cultures.
Key Genres: Cultural, academic, and methodological titles.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
3. Raff Publishing
Raff Publishing, a subsidiary of The Saudi Research and Media Group (SRMG), aims to ignite a passion for reading and amplify Arab authors’ voices on the global stage. As a general-interest trade publisher, Raff publishes Arabic and English books for adults and children across all genres in various formats, including print, digital, and audio. The company’s editorial strategy focuses on championing the culture, history, and dynamism of the MENA region. They work with both emerging and established authors, bringing the best global literary works to Arab readers through high-quality translations.
Key Genres: Contemporary fiction and non-fiction, translated works.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
4. Darussalam Publishers
Established in 1986 by Mr. Abdul Malik Mujahid in Riyadh, Darussalam has become a global leader in Islamic publications. The company’s foremost commitment is to publish authentic Islamic books of high quality. They have published over 1,400 multi-lingual titles, including translations of the Holy Quran into more than 26 languages. Darussalam’s publications cover a wide range of topics, including Tafseer, Hadith, Fiqh, the life of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and Islamic history. The company has a strong international presence and is a trusted source for Islamic literature worldwide.
Key Genres: Islamic literature, educational materials, and children’s books.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
5. Dar Al-Jadawel
Founded in 2003, Dar Al-Jadawel has established itself as a major distributor of English-language books in Saudi Arabia. The company’s strong relationships with leading international publishers from the U.S. and U.K. allow them to provide a wide selection of books to the Saudi market. While primarily a distribution company, its influence is significant, as it supplies educational materials, from university textbooks to ELT/ESL resources, to a vast network of universities, schools, hospitals, and libraries throughout the Kingdom.
Key Genres: Academic, educational, and trade books (distribution).
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
6. Dar Waraqa (House of Paper)
Dar Waraqa is an award-winning children’s book publisher based in Jeddah, founded in 2019. The company’s mission is to lead a “golden age of Saudi children’s books” by producing high-quality, culturally authentic stories that reflect the Kingdom’s rich heritage. Co-founded by Layal Idriss and her husband, Mohammed Hasanain, Dar Waraqa works with a mix of local and global talent to create beautiful and engaging books. In addition to publishing, the company provides valuable services in distribution and marketing.
Key Genres: Children’s books, cultural and heritage-focused works.
Headquarters: Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
7. Arabian Printing and Publishing House (APPH)
APPH is a well-established company in Riyadh that provides comprehensive printing and publishing services. Known for printing prominent Saudi newspapers such as “Al-Watan Newspaper,” APPH also publishes a wide array of books, magazines, and brochures. The company is recognized for its powerful printing tools and its commitment to delivering high-quality production to its customers. Its long-standing presence in the media and publishing sectors makes it a trusted partner for various projects across the Kingdom.
Key Genres: Newspapers, magazines, books, and brochures.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
8. Artrabia Publishing
Established in 2015, Artrabia Publishing is a boutique publishing house with a specific focus: to be a premier destination for discovering the beauty of Arabia. They specialize in creating high-quality, lasting art books that stand out for their unique content and aesthetic appeal. Artrabia is dedicated to revealing new and undiscovered aspects of the region’s culture and art. They take a meticulous approach to book production, ensuring that each publication is a beautiful and enduring work of art in itself.
Key Genres: Art books, books on Arabian culture and history.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
9. Mauzoun
Mauzoun is a creative studio and boutique publishing house that was founded in 2018. The name “Mauzoun” means “poetic balance” in Arabic, reflecting the company’s commitment to creating high-quality, balanced content. They are one of the first creative studios in the region to specialize in premium writing and to move away from the traditional “pay-to-publish” model. Mauzoun’s services include content writing, book commissions for non-fiction projects, and boutique publishing for talented authors with exceptional manuscripts.
Key Genres: Boutique publishing, content writing, and books for brands and authors.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
10. Al Moayyad Publishing and Bookstores
With a history spanning over six decades, the Al Moayyad Group has been a pioneering force in the publishing and distribution sectors in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf. As one of the region’s largest distribution networks, the company has built a strong reputation for reliability and quality. Al Moayyad Publishing focuses on a broad range of genres, from general interest titles to academic works, and has been a cornerstone of the Saudi literary scene for generations.
Key Genres: Wide range of books, from general interest to academic titles.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
11. Jarir Bookstore
While most people know Jarir as a retail giant for books, electronics, and office supplies, the company also has a publishing division. Established in 1974 as a small bookshop, Jarir has grown into a public company with a vast retail network across the Gulf region. Their publishing efforts are a natural extension of their retail business, and they are a major force in making a wide variety of Arabic and English publications accessible to the public.
Key Genres: A wide variety of books as a publisher and retailer.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
12. Al-Homaidhi Printing Press
Al-Homaidhi Printing Press is a well-established name in the printing and publishing industry. Part of the larger Al Homaidhi Group, the company has a long history in the Kingdom, dating back to 1959. While the group is widely known for its luxury retail brands, the printing press division has been a reliable provider of high-quality printing, publishing, and distribution services for a diverse clientele.
Key Genres: General printing and publishing services.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
13. Saudi Research & Publishing Company (SRPC)
Established in 1972, the Saudi Research & Publishing Company is a major media organization in the Middle East. It has grown to be one of the most important publishing houses in the region, with a portfolio that includes 18 daily, weekly, and monthly newspapers and magazines. These publications cover a wide range of topics, including news, business, and lifestyle, making SRPC a dominant force in the Saudi media landscape.
Key Genres: Newspapers, magazines, and media publications.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
14. Almufradat for Publishing, Distribution, and Research
Almufradat is a specialized publishing company focused on the dissemination of knowledge in education and science. The company works to publish and distribute books and literature, with a particular emphasis on university curricula and scientific works. Their dedication to academic publishing makes them a key player in supporting higher education and research within the Kingdom and beyond.
Key Genres: Academic, scientific, and educational literature.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
15. Tihama Group
Tihama Group is a historic and influential media and publishing group in Saudi Arabia. For decades, it has played a significant role in the Kingdom’s cultural and commercial life. The company has interests in various media-related fields, including advertising, marketing, and publishing. Its long-standing presence and diverse portfolio have made it a cornerstone of the Saudi media and publishing industry.
Key Genres: Media, advertising, and publishing.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
16. Dar Al-Manara Publishing House
Dar Al-Manara is an Islamic publishing house that focuses on religious and educational literature. They are known for publishing works that cover various aspects of Islamic faith, history, and jurisprudence. The company is dedicated to spreading authentic Islamic knowledge through its publications and is a respected name in the field of religious publishing.
Key Genres: Islamic books and periodicals.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
17. Dar Twaiq
Dar Twaiq is a publisher that is dedicated to serving thought and creativity. The company’s mission is to publish cultural and scientific books that contribute to the intellectual and creative growth of society. They are committed to providing a platform for authors whose work enriches the cultural conversation and promotes a deeper understanding of various subjects.
Key Genres: Cultural and scientific books.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
18. King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Quran
The King Fahd Complex is a monumental and globally significant institution dedicated to the printing and recording of the Holy Quran. Located in Medina, the complex was established in 1982 and has since produced hundreds of millions of copies of the Quran in various formats, including translations into dozens of languages and special Braille versions for the visually impaired. It is a vital resource for Muslims worldwide, ensuring the accurate and widespread dissemination of the Holy Book.
Key Genres: Holy Quran and related religious texts.
Headquarters: Medina, Saudi Arabia
19. Dar Al-Asima
Dar Al-Asima is a highly respected publishing house in Riyadh specializing in Islamic heritage and religious studies. It focuses on preserving and disseminating classical Islamic texts, often producing scholarly editions with extensive commentary and research. The company plays a crucial role in providing authoritative resources for students and researchers of Islamic history and theology. Its commitment to the accuracy and quality of its publications has earned it a strong reputation.
Key Genres: Islamic heritage, religious studies, classical texts.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
20. Dar Al-Kitab Al-Jami’i
Dar Al-Kitab Al-Jami’i, which translates to “The University Book House,” is a publisher and distributor dedicated to serving the academic community. They specialize in publishing university-level textbooks and scholarly works across various disciplines. Their catalog includes books on science, humanities, and social sciences, making them a key partner for students and faculty in Saudi universities. They also distribute books from other publishers to ensure a wide selection of academic resources.
Key Genres: University textbooks, scholarly works, academic research.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
21. Dar Al-Minhaj
Dar Al-Minhaj is a publisher well-known for its focus on Islamic religious and educational books. The company aims to provide high-quality and reliable sources of Islamic knowledge. Their publications are often used by Islamic scholars and students, and they are recognized for their clear and authentic approach to religious texts. They also publish books for children to help them learn about their faith.
Key Genres: Islamic books, religious education.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
22. Dar Al-Qalam
Dar Al-Qalam, a respected name in the publishing industry, focuses on a diverse range of topics, including literature, history, and social sciences. The company is known for its commitment to promoting intellectual discourse and enriching the cultural landscape. They publish works by both prominent and emerging authors, and their publications are often lauded for their high quality and thoughtful content.
Key Genres: Literature, history, social sciences.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
23. Dar Al-Watan
Dar Al-Watan is a prominent publishing house known for its publications in various fields, including Islamic studies, history, and general knowledge. The company is a key player in the Saudi publishing market and has been involved in several cultural initiatives. They aim to provide educational and enlightening content to a broad audience, contributing to the intellectual development of the Kingdom.
Key Genres: Islamic studies, history, general knowledge.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
24. Dar Ibn Al-Jawzi
Dar Ibn Al-Jawzi is a specialized publisher that focuses on Islamic scholarly works and heritage. The company is committed to producing high-quality editions of classical and contemporary Islamic texts. They are a go-to publisher for researchers and students seeking reliable and well-researched books on Islamic jurisprudence, Hadith, and other religious sciences.
Key Genres: Islamic scholarly works, heritage.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
25. Dar Al-Tadmuriah
Dar Al-Tadmuriah is a publisher known for its focus on a variety of subjects, including history, literature, and Islamic thought. The company aims to provide readers with a diverse selection of high-quality books that promote knowledge and intellectual growth. They publish works by both local and international authors, contributing to the richness of the Saudi literary scene.
Key Genres: History, literature, Islamic thought.
Headquarters: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
26. Dar Athar
Dar Athar is a publishing house that specializes in fiction and non-fiction titles. The company is known for its modern and contemporary approach to publishing, with a focus on producing books that resonate with a new generation of readers. They actively seek out new and creative voices in Saudi literature and provide them with a platform to share their stories.
Key Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, contemporary literature.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
27. Dar Rawaq
Dar Rawaq is a publisher known for its high-quality literary publications. The company focuses on publishing a wide range of fiction and non-fiction books that cover topics such as culture, history, and personal development. They are a notable name in the Saudi literary scene and are committed to producing books that are both thought-provoking and engaging.
Key Genres: Literature, culture, personal development.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
28. Dar Fadaat
Dar Fadaat is a publishing house that specializes in literature and poetry. The company is dedicated to promoting creative writing and providing a platform for poets and authors to showcase their work. They are known for their carefully curated selection of books that are aesthetically pleasing and intellectually stimulating.
Key Genres: Literature, poetry.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
29. Dar Al-Sami’i
Dar Al-Sami’i is a publisher that focuses on Islamic and educational books. The company is committed to providing high-quality and authentic religious literature to readers. Their publications are widely used in Islamic schools and are highly respected by students and scholars. They also publish books on a variety of educational topics.
Key Genres: Islamic and educational books.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
30. Dar Al-Manhal
Dar Al-Manhal is a publisher and distributor of educational books and children’s literature. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality educational resources that are both engaging and informative. Their publications are widely used in schools across the Kingdom, and they are a trusted partner for educators and parents.
Key Genres: Educational books, children’s literature.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
31. Dar Al-Waraq
Dar Al-Waraq is a publishing house that specializes in historical and cultural books. The company is dedicated to preserving and promoting Saudi and Arab heritage through its publications. Their books are often well-researched and provide valuable insights into the region’s rich history and traditions.
Key Genres: History, culture, heritage.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
32. Dar Fikra
Dar Fikra, which translates to “House of an Idea,” is a publishing house that focuses on intellectual and thought-provoking books. The company aims to provide a platform for authors with innovative and creative ideas. They publish works on a variety of subjects, including philosophy, social sciences, and literature, and are committed to fostering intellectual discourse.
Key Genres: Intellectual, social sciences, literature.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
33. Dar Ghainaa
Dar Ghainaa is a publishing house that focuses on a wide range of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. The company is committed to providing readers with a diverse selection of high-quality books. They are known for their modern and creative approach to publishing and their dedication to supporting new authors.
Key Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
34. Dar Al-Rusd
Dar Al-Rusd is a publisher that specializes in academic and research-oriented books. The company is a key player in the academic publishing sector, providing a platform for scholars and researchers to publish their work. Their publications cover a wide range of subjects, including humanities, social sciences, and technology.
Key Genres: Academic, research-oriented.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
35. Dar Al-Wajh
Dar Al-Wajh is a publishing house that focuses on a variety of genres, including literature, art, and children’s books. The company is known for its high-quality publications that are both aesthetically pleasing and intellectually stimulating. They are committed to providing a platform for creative authors and artists in the Kingdom.
Key Genres: Literature, art, children’s books.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
36. Dar Al-Hikma
Dar Al-Hikma, which translates to “House of Wisdom,” is a publishing house that specializes in scholarly and intellectual books. The company is dedicated to promoting knowledge and critical thinking through its publications. They publish works on a variety of subjects, including philosophy, history, and literature.
Key Genres: Scholarly, intellectual, philosophy.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
37. Dar Al-Saqr
Dar Al-Saqr is a publisher known for its focus on a variety of genres, including literature and history. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality books that are both informative and entertaining. They are a notable name in the Saudi publishing scene and are committed to supporting new authors and ideas.
Key Genres: Literature, history.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
38. Dar Al-Bayan
Dar Al-Bayan is a publishing house that focuses on Islamic and educational books. The company is committed to providing high-quality and authentic religious literature to readers. Their publications are widely used in Islamic schools and are highly respected by students and scholars.
Key Genres: Islamic books, educational.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
39. Dar Al-Fikr Al-Arabi
Dar Al-Fikr Al-Arabi is a publisher that specializes in intellectual and cultural books. The company is dedicated to promoting Arab thought and culture through its publications. They publish works on a variety of subjects, including literature, philosophy, and social sciences, and are committed to fostering intellectual discourse.
Key Genres: Intellectual, cultural, philosophy.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
40. Dar Al-Ulum
Dar Al-Ulum, which translates to “House of Sciences,” is a publisher that specializes in scientific and academic books. The company is a key player in the academic publishing sector, providing a platform for scholars and researchers to publish their work. Their publications cover a wide range of subjects, including natural sciences, engineering, and technology.
Key Genres: Scientific, academic.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
41. Dar Al-Shuruq
Dar Al-Shuruq is a publisher known for its diverse range of publications, including fiction, non-fiction, and children’s books. The company is committed to providing readers with a wide selection of high-quality books that are both engaging and informative. They are a notable name in the Saudi publishing scene and are dedicated to supporting new authors.
Key Genres: Fiction, non-fiction, children’s books.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
42. Dar Al-Hada’ir
Dar Al-Hada’ir is a publisher that specializes in children’s literature and educational books. The company is dedicated to providing high-quality and engaging books for young readers. Their publications are widely used in schools and libraries across the Kingdom, and they are a trusted partner for educators and parents.
Key Genres: Children’s literature, educational books.
Headquarters: Saudi Arabia
The Wrap up
The Saudi Arabian publishing industry is a dynamic and multifaceted landscape, offering a wealth of opportunities for authors and readers alike. From established giants like Obeikan and Darussalam with their extensive catalogs and global reach, to specialized and innovative houses such as Dar Waraqa and Artrabia, the ecosystem is rich with diversity. The companies detailed in this guide highlight the Kingdom’s commitment to nurturing a vibrant literary culture, supporting everything from academic and religious texts to contemporary fiction, children’s literature, and art books. For any aspiring author, a careful consideration of these publishers’ unique specializations is the crucial first step toward finding the perfect home for their work. The future of Saudi Arabian publishing is bright, and it stands as a testament to the nation’s ongoing cultural and intellectual development.
Disclaimer: The publishers listed here are provided for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with these publishers and do not guarantee manuscript acceptance. We only provide professional book editing, marketing, and formatting services to help authors prepare their work for submission and improve their chances of acceptance. Always verify submission details on the publisher’s official website before applying.