Photos: Sharjah Book Fair 2024 draws massive crowds

Visitors at Sharjah International Book Fair 2024. 'Everything begins with a book' is the suggestive slogan that the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024), the most important in the Arab world, has chosen for its 43rd edition, which will be held until 17 November.

With 2,520 publishers from 112 countries participating, the fair is significant for book lovers and literary professionals.

Among the highlights are the 400 authors who will be present to sign their books and engage with readers, creating an interactive space where literature comes to life.

Students at Sharjah International Book Fair 2024.

This event offers a unique opportunity to connect directly with the writers behind some of the year's most anticipated releases.

The fair will feature a solid regional presence, with the UAE leading the Arab world and hosting 234 publishers

Other notable Arab participants include Egypt, Lebanon, and Syria. Internationally, the UK and India stand out with the largest delegations of 81 and 52 publishers, respectively.

This year, SIBF will host 40 Emirati authors, including prominent figures such as Dr. Sultan Al Ameemi, Chairman of the Emirates Writers Union; Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, former advisor to the Minister of Foreign Affairs for Information Systems, and Dr. Hamad Bin Saray, historian and former Dean of Libraries at the United Arab Emirates. Other notable participants include Ibrahim Al-Hashimi, Executive Director of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Cultural Foundation, and critique and short story writer Ali Al Abdan, a winner of the UAE Literary Award.

The fair, featuring over 500 cultural activities, will include workshops, discussions, and seminars across 12 days enabling participating authors to share personal experiences, reflect on the challenges of their literary journeys, and explore the latest trends in Arab and global literature. They will also spotlight contemporary movements in prose and poetry, showcasing their latest works and creative projects.

The international event will feature an impressive array of special guests, including the Egyptian actor, Ahmed Ezz, the Saudi innovation expert Dr. Abdul Aziz Mohammed Alawad and Bahraini AI specialist Dr. Jassim Haji. They will be joined by Dr. Adiy Tweissi, an e-learning specialist, and Dr. Rana Dajani, a prominent Jordanian scientist and writer. Egyptian economist Dr. Ahmed El-Sayed El-Naggar and Dr. Kareem Ali will contribute their expertise in their respective fields.

Families on the opening day of Sharjah International Book Fair 2024.

Students at Sharjah International Book Fair 2024.