Sharjah: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025) is set to begin on Wednesday, featuring over 250 authors, creatives, and intellectuals from 66 countries. The event, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority at Expo Centre Sharjah, will run for 12 days until November 16, showcasing more than 1,200 cultural, artistic, and creative events.
According to Emirates News Agency, the fair will host over 2,350 publishers, including 1,224 Arab and 1,126 international publishers, presenting millions of titles to attendees. Greece is recognized as the Guest of Honour, highlighting its cultural and intellectual contributions. The program will feature 58 Greek publishers and cultural institutions, with 600 titles on display. Additionally, more than 70 Greek participants, including authors, poets, and musicians, will engage in various activities.
Greece's pavilion will present an exhibition titled 'Greek Literature: The Long Journey', focusing on the impact of Greek writers and philosophers. The area will also feature a theatre show, a musical-theatrical performance, workshops, and live sessions at the Cookery Corner.
Egyptian writer Mohamed Salmawy is being honored as the Cultural Personality of the Year for his extensive contributions to Arab theatre and literature. Salmawy is recognized as a significant figure in the literary world, noted for his plays, novels, and journalism.
SIBF 2025 will also welcome international star Will Smith, who will participate in a session on November 14, discussing his career in writing, film, and music. Additionally, actors Khaled El Sawy and Dhafer L'Abidine will join a session focused on the transition from acting to writing.
The fair will host a distinguished group of Arab writers and speakers, including Issa Yousef, Dr. Sultan Al Ameemi, Dr. Zahi Hawass, Dr. Hamad bin Seray, and others. Contemporary cultural and intellectual discourse will be represented by thinkers and authors such as Professor Carlo Rovelli, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, and Dr. Julie Smith.
The fourth edition of the Thriller Festival will take place from November 8 to 11, featuring authors and experts in crime and mystery. Highlights include an interactive performance titled 'Murder at the Majlis', involving audience participation.
Over the 12-day event, SIBF 2025 will feature more than 1,200 events, including panel discussions and workshops. The fair will host 750 workshops on various topics, and a Poetry Cafe will present poetry evenings in multiple languages.
The newly introduced Pop-Up Academy will offer sessions led by influencers and specialists in literature and technology. The Cookery Corner will feature live sessions from chefs worldwide.
SIBF 2025 is supported by key partners such as e and Arada, among others, ensuring a well-rounded and inclusive experience for all attendees.