The 44th Sharjah International Book Fair opens 5 November with 2,350 global publishers, 1,200 events, and Greece as Guest of Honour.
SHARJAH: The 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 (SIBF) will return to Expo Centre Sharjah from 5–16 November under the theme “Between You and a Book.” Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), this year’s fair marks a major global cultural gathering, with 2,350 publishers and exhibitors from 118 countries, alongside more than 1,200 literary and cultural events.
The 11-day event will host over 250 intellectuals and creatives from 66 countries, with ten nations making their cultural programme debut, including Iceland, Mali, Angola, and Vietnam. Greece will be celebrated as the official Guest of Honour, offering 70 speakers, 600 literary works, and a rich lineup of cultural showcases within its national pavilion inspired by ancient Greek architecture.
The Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 is set to offer 750 workshops across genres, from thriller writing to therapeutic storytelling. A notable innovation this year is the Pop-Up Academy, offering influencer-led sessions on art, tech, and literature. The Cookery Corner will feature 42 food storytelling events with 15 chefs from 14 countries, and the ‘Poetry Pharmacy’ adds an interactive touch to poetry appreciation.
A major highlight is the return of the Thriller Festival (8–11 November), in collaboration with ThrillerFest New York, featuring celebrated writers like Araminta Hall, Ragnar Jónasson, and Jennifer Hillier. The Podcast Station debuts with live sessions from popular shows across the GCC.
At the press briefing, SBA Chairman H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri reflected on Sharjah’s legacy in advancing cultural dialogue, echoing the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi.
Representatives from the Greek Embassy, Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, and e& UAE highlighted the fair’s role as a cultural bridge between nations. Greek officials expressed their excitement in sharing Greece’s artistic and literary legacy with UAE audiences.
Notable Emirati contributors include poet Nujoom Al Ghanem, actor Ahmed Al Jasmi, and historian Dr. Hamad bin Seray. Internationally, the fair features Nigeria’s Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Italy’s Carlo Rovelli, India’s Prajakta Koli, and Ireland’s Paul Lynch among many others.
More than just a literary event, the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 is a celebration of stories, creativity, and identity—turning every reader into a traveller through the world of books.
