SIBF 2025: Sharjah Ruler orders full fee exemption for Sudanese publishers

Sharjah: Under the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, and the supervision of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), participation fees for Sudanese publishers at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair have been waived.

The move highlights Sharjah’s leadership in supporting Arab publishers, especially amid regional economic and humanitarian challenges, by sustaining knowledge production and preserving cultural memory. It also helps Sudanese writers reach wider audiences.

Continuing knowledge despite challenges

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi , affirmed that this initiative reflects the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah, which emphasizes that the creation of knowledge should never cease, no matter how difficult circumstances become. Supporting Arab publishers in countries experiencing exceptional conditions, she noted, is an essential part of Sharjah’s responsibility toward the Arab cultural landscape.

“Through this initiative, Sharjah reaffirms its responsibility to protect the Arab cultural heritage and empower creatives from all sister nations, including Sudan, so that books remain a bridge connecting peoples and strengthening the cultural identity of the region. We also believe that Sudanese culture is an integral source of Arab identity, and through this initiative, we aim to provide Sudanese publishers with greater space to continue their mission and enhance their active presence in Arab book fairs” she added.

A long-term commitment to cultural preservation

The fee waiver builds on a series of measures Sharjah has introduced in recent years to support Arab publishers affected by economic and political pressures.

These initiatives are grounded in the belief that books are essential to preserving cultural identity and protecting the region’s intellectual heritage.