Sharjah:At the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026), attendees are drawn to a corner stand marked by a small sign reading "Old and Rare," which signals the presence of books not commonly found in regular bookshops. These include rare and out-of-print volumes, some of which provide historical accounts of the Gulf and broader Arab region from times before the formation of the UAE, while others explore Islamic history, travel, and culture.
According to Sharjah 24, among the rare collections offered at the fair is a two-volume edition of Eldon Rutter's "The Holy Cities of Arabia," priced at AED 3,000, showcased by UK bookseller Idris Mears. This edition, originally published in 1928, chronicles Rutter's travels in Makkah and Madinah.
Mears' collection at SIBF 2026 includes over 4,000 titles, spanning new, used, and rare books. Books related to the UAE, the former Trucial States, and the wider Gulf are particularly sought after by collectors. Mears acquires these treasures from various small booksellers, older bookshops, and charity shops, often stumbling upon specialist collections that have been donated by families unaware of their significance.
With a career in the book industry spanning more than five decades, Mears has honed his ability to identify valuable materials. His journey in the industry began in 1974 and has encompassed roles in publishing, editing, typesetting, design, distribution, and retail. Mears has been a participant in the Sharjah International Book Fair for over 20 years, where his collection has become a draw for repeat visitors and collectors.
The SIBF 2026, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority, is a 12-day event at Expo Centre Sharjah running until November 15. It features 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, along with 106 guests from 25 nations and 1,500 cultural, creative, and artistic events.