Japanese manga and anime steal the spotlight at Sharjah International Book Fair

Sharjah: The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) turned into a lively meeting point for manga and anime fans, drawing families, teens, and longtime enthusiasts into the colourful world of Japanese storytelling. Visitors wandered through shelves packed with familiar favourites like Pokémon, Dragon Ball, and Akira, along with newer sensations such as Kagurabachi and Frieren.

Manga — Japan’s signature comic-book style — is usually printed in black and white, while anime brings those stories to life on screen. Both have built a huge fanbase worldwide thanks to their creative plots, expressive characters, and visually rich art styles.

In the Arab world, interest has only grown. Many readers were first introduced to Japanese stories through Arabic-dubbed programmes like Captain Tsubasa, Naruto, and One Piece, and that nostalgia was unmistakable at this year’s fair.

At the busy Kinokuniya Bookshop booth, manga fans crowded around packed shelves. Candy Estrella, a representative, said the demand never slows. “The classics are still the most popular,” she said, pointing to titles that have remained favourites for years.

But she noted that newer works are catching up quickly. Vinland Saga and Fist of the North Star are gaining a solid following, and the latest Demon Slayer film — Infinity Castle — has revived interest in the franchise.

Arabic versions remain limited, she said, so many readers pick up English or Japanese editions, or follow the anime with subtitles instead.

Different genres appeal to different readers. Younger fans are picking up Kagurabachi, while Estrella expects Frieren to grow even more once its second season arrives next year.

The passion among visitors was clear. Hessa, a big anime fan, said she was thrilled to see so many titles available. “It’s amazing to see such a big anime collection at SIBF,” she said. “I’m here for Demon Slayer — it’s one of my favourites.”

Other exhibitors noticed changing tastes too. A representative from Al Rewaya for Book Publishing and Distribution FZE said Ghibliotheque, a book celebrating Studio Ghibli’s films, has become a favourite among young Arab women. At Pan World General Trading, collectors sifted excitedly through box sets of classics like Naruto.

The excitement at SIBF 2025 showed how strongly Japanese stories resonate with Arab readers. With themes of friendship, courage, and hope, manga and anime continue to form a meaningful cultural link between Japan and the region — one chapter at a time.