From the UAE to the Arab World: “Growing Up with the Smurfs” in Arabic

For the first time in the Arab world, young readers will be introduced to the “Growing Up with the Smurfs” series - a collection of over ten comic book stories designed for early childhood readers.

The series explores real-life themes that resonate with children and includes a rich educational resource for parents, written by child psychologist Diane Drory, a specialist in early childhood developmental disorders. The stories include:

• “The Smurf Who Was Afraid of the Dark” -addressing fear and anxiety.

• “The Smurf Who Only Loved Desserts” - tackling unhealthy eating habits.

• “The Clumsy Smurf” - exploring embarrassment and low self-confidence.

  
  

This launch marks the first collaboration between an Emirati publishing house and the global Smurfs franchise, following the tremendous success of the Smurfs brand in the UAE through the Smurfs Village at MOTIONGATE™ Dubai, which attracted thousands of visitors and reaffirmed the brand’s popularity among families and children.

The initiative is a result of the Emirates Publishers Association’s ongoing efforts to empower Emirati publishers and build leading international partnerships. Through its strategic participation in major international book fairs such as the Bologna Children’s Book Fair and the Frankfurt Book Fair, the Association has helped connect Emirati publishers with global counterparts - opening new avenues for collaboration and introducing Arabic children’s literature to wider markets.

Through Ajyaal Publishing House, the Arabic edition of “Growing Up with the Smurfs” offers Arab children an opportunity to engage with a global, educationally rich comic series that combines entertainment and learning - providing parents and educators with practical tools to discuss psychological and behavioral growth challenges with children.

The series, originally released in Belgium in 2020 under the title “Grandir avec les Schtroumpfs ”, was created by Faizar and Thierry Culliford and now spans over 10 French volumes and 4 English editions (each including three stories). It is also published in German as “Gross werden mit den Schlümpfen” and in Spanish as “Crecemos con Los Pitufos” — and now arrives in the Arab world under the name “لنكبر مع السنافر” (Growing Up with the Smurfs).

Commenting on the release, Elise Haraux from Le Lombard (the original publisher of the series) said:

“This collection was an important step for us — we wanted to create something new, with fresh designs that make children laugh and learn at the same time. We’re very happy with the series and hope it reaches young audiences and inspires positive interaction with their families.”

The launch of the Arabic edition of “Growing Up with the Smurfs” represents a significant addition to early childhood literature in the region and reaffirms the UAE’s pioneering role in connecting Arab culture with global markets through integrated institutional and professional initiatives. The collection is available starting today through authorized retailers and online platforms.