Sharjah International Book Fair 2026 to Celebrate Arab Literary Excellence with 50+ Authors
The 45th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair will welcome distinguished writers, poets and artists from across the Arab world for an expansive cultural programme exploring Arabic literature's profound relationship with society, identity and cultural transformation.
The forthcoming 45th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, taking place from 4th to 15th November 2026 at Expo Centre Sharjah, promises an exceptional celebration of Arab literary achievement. The fair will welcome more than 50 authors and creative practitioners from 17 Arab nations, offering audiences a remarkable opportunity to engage with writers, intellectuals and artists spanning multiple generations and disciplines.
The cultural programme encompasses an extraordinary breadth of literary forms: fiction, poetry, literary criticism, theatre, the visual arts, and studies in cultural and historical significance. Attendees will discover the work of these distinguished contributors through direct encounters, allowing for meaningful dialogue about Arabic literature’s evolving relationship with contemporary society, cultural identity and the processes of transformation that shape artistic expression across the Arab world.
The Emirati contingent represents remarkable diversity within the nation’s literary landscape. Dr. Sultan Al Amimi, Chairman of the Emirates Writers Union, brings scholarly expertise in Nabati poetry and folk heritage alongside his acclaimed novels including “P.O. Box 1003” and “One Room Is Not Enough”. Novelist Reem Al Kamali draws inspiration from history and archaeology, whilst Nadia Al Najjar’s extensive body of work encompasses fiction, short stories and literature for young readers, with “The Touch of Light” recently shortlisted for the International Prize for Arabic Fiction.
The theatre and visual arts will be represented by Dr. Habib Ghuloom, whose contributions have significantly shaped the UAE’s theatrical development, and Nassir Nasrallah, whose innovative practice unites illustration, writing and comics through the Corniche initiative. Dr. Suaad Sultan Al Shamsi, notably the first Emirati female aviation engineer, brings her distinctive voice exploring social and humanitarian themes through literature.
International participation encompasses acclaimed figures including Egyptian actor Khaled El Sawy and Kuwaiti novelist Saud Alsanousi, whose “The Bamboo Stalk” received the International Prize for Arabic Fiction. The programme features Sudanese novelist Hammour Ziada, recipient of the Naguib Mahfouz Medal for Literature, and Saudi novelist Omaima Al Khamis, similarly honoured for her literary contributions. Lebanese, Iraqi, Palestinian, Jordanian, Tunisian, Libyan, Yemeni and writers from throughout the Arab region will participate, representing the full richness of contemporary Arabic literature.
This substantial gathering reflects the fair’s commitment to fostering cultural exchange. The 12-day event will present 1,500 cultural, creative and artistic occasions, encompassing panel discussions, literary evenings, workshops and programmes for children and young adults. The fair will welcome 2,673 publishers and exhibitors from 124 countries, alongside 106 distinguished guests representing 25 nations, establishing it as a comprehensive platform for meaningful engagement between creators, publishers and enthusiastic readers.
Source: WAM