Sharjah: Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) on Saturday announced that Dr Mohammad Sabir Arab, Egypt’s former minister of culture, is its Cultural Personality of the Year for 2017.
The selection of the Arab luminary for the 36th edition of the fair, which runs from November 1 to 11 at Expo Centre Sharjah, was made in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Arabic cultural and academic life, SIBF said in a statement.
A renowned proponent of Arabic culture, Dr Arab is noted for combining history, literature and intellect in his analysis and critique of Arab issues. He has been instrumental in developing Egypt’s cultural sphere and in enhancing the country’s relations with influential cultural entities, based on his vision that calls to preserve and support Arab heritage when facing contemporary challenges.
“[Dr Arab] is an inspiring cultural personality who enjoys a very high regard in the Arabic cultural arena. His career has seen him support intellectuals, encourage researchers and contribute to building a generation of educated people. Committed to engaging with Sharjah’s cultural and intellectual project, he is a regular participant at SIBF,” said Ahmad Al Ameri, chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, the organisers of SIBF.
Al Ameri added that the selection of Dr Arab was also made in recognition of his contribution in dozens of scientific researches and his publication of books that have “enriched the Arabic library and formed an invaluable addition to the cultural milieu”.
Aside from serving as minister of culture in three consecutive cabinets, Dr Arab held many important non-ministerial positions in Egypt. He is currently professor of modern Arab history at Al Azhar University in Egypt and professor at the Arabian Researches and Studies Institute of the Arab League.
Dr Arab has published dozens of books, including ‘The National Movement in Egypt 1908-1914.’
