Sharjah Becomes First Arab Guest of Honour at Bogotá International Book Fair 2027
The Sharjah Book Authority has been selected as the inaugural Arab Guest of Honour for FILBo, positioning Emirati culture and literature at the forefront of Latin America's most significant literary gathering.
Sharjah has been named the first Arab Guest of Honour in the history of the Bogotá International Book Fair (FILBo), a distinction that underscores the emirate’s prominence in the global literary landscape. The 39th edition of this prestigious Colombian cultural event will take place from 20 April to 3 May 2027 at the Corferias exhibition centre in the Colombian capital.
This remarkable recognition represents a watershed moment for cultural exchange between the Arab world and Latin America. By hosting Sharjah as Guest of Honour, FILBo positions Emirati and Arab literary traditions at the centre of one of the Spanish-speaking world’s most influential book fairs, a platform that has connected writers, publishers and readers since its establishment in 1988.
H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, described the selection as an opportunity to deepen cultural dialogue between two regions with rich literary heritages. She emphasised the potential to expand the presence of Arab literature in Spanish whilst introducing Arab readers to Latin American works, fostering lasting connections amongst writers, publishers and cultural institutions across both continents.
Paula Andrea Holguín Moreno, Colombia’s Minister of Cultures, Arts and Knowledge, acknowledged the UAE’s longstanding commitment to cultural cooperation. She commended Sharjah’s globally recognised cultural model, built upon knowledge and literature as instruments for connecting peoples and civilisations. The minister expressed enthusiasm for strengthening creative partnerships and widening dialogue between Colombia and the Arab world through cultural and literary channels.
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, highlighted that this historic designation reflects the cultural standing the UAE has cultivated internationally. He noted the profound connections between Arab and Colombian literature, exemplified by the presence of Arab characters in Gabriel García Márquez’s seminal novel, demonstrating the deep cultural resonance already existing between these regions amongst millions of readers.
The Sharjah Book Authority is developing a comprehensive cultural programme for Colombian and wider Latin American audiences, showcasing the breadth of Sharjah’s cultural experience through literature, publishing, the arts and heritage preservation. The initiative will incorporate a professional strand for publishing professionals, featuring dedicated sessions on translation, rights exchange and distribution networks.
This participation builds upon Sharjah’s previous engagements as Guest of Honour at the São Paulo International Book Fair in Brazil and the Guadalajara International Book Fair in Mexico, further cementing the emirate’s role as a cultural ambassador within Latin America.
Source: WAM (Emirates News Agency)