Company: Bookends
Co-founders: Grace Karim and Somia Anwar
Website: https://bookends.ae/
About Bookends
Bookends is a UAE-based startup that has built a community-driven marketplace focused on making books more affordable and sustainable. Founded by two mothers, Somia and Grace, the business began with a simple idea: create a platform where families could buy and sell pre-loved books rather than constantly purchasing new ones.
What started as an online marketplace has evolved into a growing business with a physical presence in Dubai Silicon Oasis and a large community of buyers and sellers. By extending the lifespan of books and encouraging reuse, Bookends combines elements of the circular economy with retail innovation. The startup has become particularly popular among families, students and avid readers looking for affordable access to literature.
In a region where sustainability-focused startups are gaining momentum, Bookends stands out for applying circular economy principles to the publishing and retail sectors while building a strong local community around reading and education.
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