The 12-day cultural extravaganza themed ‘It Starts with a Book’ will be home to 1,357 activities at Expo Centre Sharjah between November 6-17

Sharjah: Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024) kicks off this Wednesday. This year’s fair welcomes over 2,520 publishers from 112 countries, with Morocco as Guest of Honour, spotlighting its vibrant heritage and celebrated writers. Attendees can immerse themselves in Morocco’s rich culture, with over 1,357 activities planned, ranging from talks to cultural performances.

Celebrated Authors and Global Icons

The fair, organised by the Sharjah Book Authority under the theme “It Starts with a Book,” runs for 12 days. Prominent Emirati writers like Dr. Sultan Al Ameemi, Dr. Saeed Al Dhaheri, and Eman Al Yousuf will be joined by international voices, including British historian Peter Frankopan, Canadian physicist Lawrence Krauss, and Pakistani novelist Amna Mufti. UK author and entrepreneur Steven Bartlett, known for Diary of a CEO, will also make an appearance.

Musical Evenings with Omar Khairat and Humood Alkhudher

On November 9, renowned Egyptian composer Omar Khairat will perform an evening concert, while Kuwaiti artist Humood Alkhudher will take the stage on November 17 for the fair’s grand finale, offering a musical journey for visitors.

Workshops and Cultural Highlights

This year’s fair features 600 workshops across age groups, including writing, media, entrepreneurship, technology, and creative arts. Specialised thriller and suspense writing sessions will also be available for pre-registered participants. Algerian author Ahlam Mosteghanemi will be honoured as “Cultural Personality of the Year,” recognising her contributions to Arabic literature.

SIBF 2024 sparks creativity with 600 engaging workshops for skill-building

The Thrill of Fiction and Poetry Nights

A Thriller Festival from November 7-10 will feature suspenseful discussions with authors like Tess Gerritsen and Isabella Maldonado. Meanwhile, Poetry Nights will blend verse and melody in six languages, featuring celebrated poets like Canada’s Rupi Kaur and Egypt’s Hisham El Gakh.

Spotlight on Moroccan Culture

Morocco’s pavilion will showcase over 4,000 titles from 22 publishers, with 107 events led by Moroccan authors and artists. Visitors can enjoy traditional Aissawa and Gnawa music performances, theatre, cooking sessions, and workshops for children.

Live Culinary Sessions and Social Media Insights

The Cookery Corner will feature 47 live cooking demos from chefs worldwide, including Morocco’s Alia Al Qasimi and South Africa’s Zola Nene. At the Social Media Station, young attendees can join workshops on content creation, stop-motion animation, and digital communication.

SIBF 2024 is sponsored by Etisalat by e&, the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, Expo Centre Sharjah, and several other industry leaders, making it an unmissable event for literature, culture, and innovation.