SBA Spotlights Sharjah’s Literary Vision at CIBF 2025
Dubai: The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) is driving cultural exchange and advancing global knowledge-sharing during its participation in the 56th Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF), which runs until 5th February at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre. By actively participating in cultural events, the authority bolsters its role as a catalyst for collaboration and forging stronger connections between Arab nations and the international community.
According to Emirates News Agency, during a visit to SBA’s pavilion, Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno, Egypt’s Minister of Culture, received two special copies of “Egyptian Memories” authored by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The books, dedicated to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, recount His Highness’s personal experiences and reflections from his time living in Egypt.
SBA’s pavilion hosted Dr. Abdullah bin Nasser Al Harrasi, Oman’s Minister of Information, who engaged with SBA representatives to discuss strengthening cultural and media collaboration between institutions in Oman and Sharjah, aiming to advance shared cultural objectives. The pavilion also drew prominent figures and publishing industry leaders from around the globe, who explored the advanced portfolio of services and facilities provided by the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone.
During its participation, SBA showcased its wide range of year-round programmes and initiatives, including the Sharjah International Book Fair, the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival, and the Publishers and Libraries conferences, which aim to advance the publishing industry in the region. The authority also highlighted Sharjah’s literary prizes, encouraging excellence in authorship, publishing, and translation.
The SBA’s activities at the fair include a comprehensive programme of events, such as panel discussions and workshops, highlighting Sharjah’s cultural contributions and its role in shaping the future of Arab literature. Additionally, the pavilion features key literary and cultural works from the UAE creative scene and facilitates international cooperation through meetings with publishers and global cultural institutions.
Commenting on the participation, Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasised that the authority’s involvement in the Cairo International Book Fair reflects Sharjah’s commitment to strengthening cultural connections and advancing literary movements on both regional and global levels. He stated that the CIBF is an ideal platform to achieve this goal, offering opportunities to engage with diverse cultures and collaborate with cultural institutions and publishing houses globally.
Expressing his appreciation for Sharjah’s participation, Dr. Ahmed Fouad Hanno remarked that Sharjah’s presence at the CIBF, represented by SBA, adds significant value to the event. The emirate pavilion’s extensive collection of books and resources enriches the fair’s offerings, while its cultural vibrancy strengthens the historical ties between the UAE, the Arab world, and Egypt.
SBA’s delegation at the CIBF comprises leading cultural entities from Sharjah, including Kalimat Group, Al Qasimi Publications, the Department of Culture, the Arab Publishers Forum for Children’s Books, and the Sharjah Literary Agency, and Sharjah Publishing City. The 56th CIBF features participation from publishers across Egypt, the Arab region, and the world, with Oman being celebrated as the Guest of Honour.