Sharjah International Book Fair 2024 To Feature 2,520 Publishers, 400 Authors

The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) announced the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024), which will be held from Nov. 6 to Nov. 17 at the Expo Centre Sharjah, under the theme of "It starts with a book."

This year's fair will feature 2,520 publishers from 112 countries and 400 authors who will sign their latest books. The event will have 1,357 activities led by 250 guests from 63 countries, offering something for all age groups and interests.

Morocco will be the Guest of Honor, celebrating its rich literary and cultural heritage. SIBF 2024 will also offer 600 workshops for all ages and special workshops with global experts in creative writing that can be booked in advance.

"The book is the origin of all things and is the record of all human achievements. They safeguard the histories and accomplishments of nations, guiding societies as they advance," SBA CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri said during a press conference Monday, WAM reported.

"This is why the theme for this year's fair is 'It Starts with a Book.' It encapsulates the belief that every significant journey in learning and personal growth begins with a book, serving as a gateway to endless knowledge and understanding," he added.

Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, explained how people's interests and reading preferences change over time. In childhood, people are attracted to stories of fantasy and legends. As they grow older, they look for adventure.

Later in life, many turn to more thoughtful reading, where they connect with the writer's message. Some readers even become authors themselves, sharing their experiences with future generations, just as they learned from books in the past.

Marwan Al Zaim, Al Marwan Group CEO - the sponsor of the Turjuman Award - spoke about the significance of the award, which honors outstanding contributions to Arabic literature and translation.

He highlighted how the Turjuman Award reflects Sharjah's continuous efforts to promote cultural exchange and increase access to knowledge.

Over the past 43 years, the Sharjah International Book Fair has grown into an important Arab platform, bringing the region together and making reading a key part of development and progress. The event has also shown Sharjah's ability to energize both Arab and global cultures.

Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone (SPC Free Zone) announced in May that its operations will be available round-the-clock to support its customers amid growing demand from entrepreneurs and investors.