Sharjah International Book Fair unveils biggest-ever edition with Oman as Guest of Honour

Sharjah: The literary world’s spotlight is set to shine on the eagerly anticipated 45th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), which will open its doors from 4 to 15 November. Hosted under the patronage of His Highness Dr Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and organised under the directives of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this year’s fair promises to be the largest and most dynamic to date. At a press conference held on 13 October at the Sharjah Book Authority Headquarters, Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing, revealed an ambitious programme designed to captivate book lovers, families and cultural connoisseurs alike. An expansive programme that spans the globe This year, the fair boasts an impressive array of 1,500 activities, featuring 106 celebrated guests from 25 countries. The diverse programme is carefully curated to nurture a love of reading and learning while also offering interactive and immersive experiences for visitors of all ages. Innovative interactive experiences Among the highlights is the debut of the Poets’ Corner, a unique initiative inviting visitors to share personal stories with poets, who then transform these memories into bespoke poems in both Arabic and English. For younger attendees, the Future Hands District offers an interactive educational city where children aged 3 to 7 can explore different professions through hands-on activities. A stellar line-up of cultural figures The cultural programme will showcase some of the region’s most influential Emirati and Arab personalities, including Fathiya Al Nimr, a distinguished member of the Emirates Writers Union and author of acclaimed works such as The Moon Has Another Side and The Window. Joining her is Dr Ahmed Al Khouri, a distinguished cultural historian renowned for his collection of more than 10,000 rare heritage artefacts that celebrate Emirati heritage. Internationally acclaimed guests include bestselling author Claire Mackintosh and creative thought leader Peter Gould. Workshops, performances and family fun Learning and development take centre stage with specialised workshops and courses (advance booking required), including sessions with acclaimed figures such as Khaled El Sawy and Daniela Tully. The fair’s theatre and family programming is equally robust, headlined by performances such as When Memories Sing (7 November) and the enchanting Waterland (14-15 November), with more titles to be confirmed. Culinary corner and genre festivals Food enthusiasts can look forward to culinary demonstrations by luminaries such as Salam Dakkak, Romy Gill and Sulaiman Al Kindi. Meanwhile, fans of suspense and mystery will not want to miss the Thriller and Suspense Festival, running from 7 to 10 November, featuring more than a dozen internationally renowned authors, including Elizabeth Moore, Karin Dion and Sim Khan, as well as prominent Arab writers such as Noha Dawood and Ibrahim Al Marzooqi, alongside several other writers and participants. Oman takes centre stage as Guest of Honour In a special highlight, the Sultanate of Oman has been named this year’s Guest of Honour. The Omani cultural programme will bring together 50 distinguished guests and 45 writers and poets to celebrate the nation’s rich literary heritage, including notable figures such as Zahran Al Qasmi, Dr Mohammed Al Yahyai and Ahmed bin Nasser Al Rashdi. A cultural extravaganza not to be missed With its blend of global perspectives, homegrown talent and innovative experiences, the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair is poised to reaffirm Sharjah’s reputation as a world capital of literature and culture. Mark your calendars for 4 to 15 November and prepare to immerse yourself in a festival where stories come alive, knowledge is celebrated and the future of reading takes centre stage.