The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) will take place from November 6 to 17, 2024, at the Expo Centre Sharjah, under the theme of literary and cultural diversity. This event, one of the largest book fairs in the Arab world, will host international writers, celebrities, and intellectuals. Among the notable guests are Georgi Gospodinov, Booker Prize winner, and Indian actress Huma Qureshi, who will bring diverse literary perspectives.
The fair will include a rich program of conferences, creative workshops, and roundtables, addressing topics ranging from contemporary writing to the literary history of the Middle East. The event also highlights renowned Arab and international authors, fostering intercultural exchange around literature. Book signing sessions and meetings with writers will offer the public a direct dialogue with authors, providing an immersive experience.
In parallel, SIBF 2024 will offer educational and entertaining activities for families, including children’s workshops and public readings. The fair aims to promote reading as a cultural pillar in the region and beyond. This initiative reflects Sharjah’s commitment to positioning itself as a global cultural capital, attracting visitors from all over the world.
Among the authors from the region not to be missed are the Egyptian writer Ahmed Mourad, known for his thrillers such as Vertigo, and Hisham El Gakh, a famous poet for his works written in Egyptian dialect.
On the Lebanese side, Chawki Bazih, poet laureate of the Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Prize, will be present. Morocco will also be represented with authors such as Youssef Fadel, winner of the Grand Atlas Award, and Rachid Idrissi, known for his contributions to the critique of Arabic poetry.
Finally, Syrian writers such as Khaled Khalifa, the award-winning author of the novel No Knives in the Kitchens of This City, and Iraqi figures like Inaam Kachachi and Shahad Al Rawi will be present.