Sharjah: Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2016 will return for its 35th edition in November with an extensive programme of activities for all book lovers, the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) announced
The world’s third largest event of its kind will celebrate three-and-a-half decades of reading, culture and knowledge and will take place from November 2 to 12 at Expo Centre Sharjah.
The 11-day fair will introduce a rich programme of events, workshops and activities that cater to all community segments, with the event fulfilling a passion for the written word, they said.
This year the SIBF has a special significance as it coincides with the passage of 35 years since its inception and with the celebration of 2016 being declared the UAE’s Year of Reading.
“The Sharjah International Book Fair exemplifies the wise vision of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to make reading a means to nurture minds and build human culture and knowledge. The forthcoming event will be particularly significant as it takes place during the nation’s Year of Reading,” said Ahmad Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, chairman of SBA.
Al Ameri said Shaikh Sultan has always strived to ensure that Sharjah remains a global beacon of culture, a goal that SIBF has contributed to throughout its previous 34 editions.
“SIBF’s prestigious stature is further evidence of the leading cultural role played by the emirate of Sharjah and the UAE, with the fair being an invaluable asset that places the Emirati nation among the most successful in the world. SIBF is a tangible example of the cultural renaissance enjoyed by the UAE thanks to the support and guidance of our wise leadership,” he added.
Since its first edition in 1982, SIBF has become established as a major cultural event that brings readers together with authors, intellectuals, publishers and media stakeholders.
Over the past three and a half decades, SIBF has become one of the leading events on the UAE and region’s calendar. The fair attracts numerous visitors to Sharjah to buy books, meet their favourite authors and celebrities and participate in its extensive programme of activities.
SIBF 2016 will be held two days after October’s Month of Reading to continue enriching minds and meeting the demand from all generations who love reading and seek knowledge through books and publications.
