Sharjah named Guest of Honour at Morocco book fair

Sharjah: Sharjah has been named the official Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF) in Morocco. This recognition is a testament to the cultural vision and projects of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and further strengthens the emirate’s global status as a capital of knowledge.

Organised by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, RIBF 2025 will take place from April 17 to 27 at the iconic OLM Souissi. Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing at the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Latifa Moftaqir, General Coordinator of RIBF and Director of the Moroccan Archives Foundation, signed the agreement during a ceremony to make the announcement.

This marks a significant step in enhancing Arab cultural exchange and deepening ties between intellectuals and literary figures from the UAE and Morocco. As the Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present a diverse cultural agenda highlighting the UAE’s contemporary and historical literary and artistic achievements. The programme will celebrate the richness of Emirati heritage and the cultural values it shares with Morocco, fostering greater mutual understanding and collaboration.

Historical ties

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, underlined that Morocco’s decision to honour Sharjah provides a “valuable opportunity” to strengthen the two countries’ deep historical ties and explore the shared cultural heritage that unites our peoples.

“Culture is one of the most powerful channels through which nations and societies connect, fostering meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding. It extends beyond literature, art, and music to encompass the identity and values that define communities.”

Sheikha Bodour highlighted that the recognition is not just a tribute to Sharjah and the UAE, but a platform for fostering dialogue and exchanging expertise between the diverse cultures and civilisations of the eastern and western Arab world.

“We look forward to presenting a diverse cultural programme that reflects the vibrancy and depth of the Emirati literary and creative landscape.”

Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of Morocco, said the announcement reflects the strength and depth of the historical and fraternal ties between both the countries.

“This will be a valuable opportunity for visitors to the fair to explore the rich culture, history, and literary contributions of the emirate of Sharjah. We experienced Sharjah’s dedication to culture and literature firsthand when Morocco was celebrated as the Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair.”

Cultural programmes

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, noted that Sharjah’s participation in the event presents an opportunity to expand partnerships between intellectuals, publishers, and creatives from both sides.

As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will participate with a comprehensive cultural programme that highlights the history and contemporary evolution of Emirati literature and creative arts in various forms. More than 15 Emirati publishers will present their latest works at the event. The participation will include panel discussions featuring Emirati writers and intellectuals alongside their Moroccan counterparts.

The programme will feature dedicated workshops for children, offering them an interactive introduction to Emirati heritage. Traditional performances will showcase the diversity and richness of the UAE’s cultural landscape. In celebration of Arabic calligraphy, Emirati calligraphers will collaborate with their Moroccan counterparts to create artworks, highlighting the artistic and cultural ties between the two nations.

Through this comprehensive programme, the UAE’s participation in the fair will offer an immersive and enriching experience that seamlessly blends literature, art, and heritage.