'It starts with a book': 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair opens in UAE

 

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah during the opening ceremony of the 43rd edition of Sharjah International Book Fair at Sharjah Expo Center on November 6, 2024. [Caroline Chebet, Standard]

The 43rd edition of the world’s largest literary event has officially kicked off in the Emirate of Sharjah, United Arab Emirates. The fair brings together a distinguished group of writers, intellectuals, artists, and international award laureates to showcase critical literary, cultural, and intellectual topics to a global audience.

Under the theme ‘It Starts with a Book’, the event features over 15 million books covering diverse fields of knowledge, with over 2,500 publishers from 112 countries participating.

The book fair also highlights the latest literary trends and cultural insights.

During the opening ceremony at the Sharjah Expo Center, His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, expressed pride in the event, noting how it has evolved to command global attention while celebrating the transformative power of books.

The Ruler of Sharjah remarked that this year’s edition not only celebrates the power of books but also marks the launch of the Historical Corpus of the Arabic Language, a comprehensive dictionary that documents the development of the Arabic language.

“Today, we celebrate two cherished events. First, the Sharjah International Book Fair itself — for books are the key to a nation’s success, advancement, and development,” said Sheikh Al Qasimi.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah during the opening ceremony of the 43rd edition of Sharjah International Book Fair at Sharjah Expo Center on November 6, 2024. [Caroline Chebet, Standard]

He said, “Our second joy is the completion of the Historical Corpus of the Arabic Language, a monumental scholarly achievement realized by a team of over 700 contributors, including writers, editors, reviewers, managers, and production staff. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to all who contributed to this significant cultural endeavour.”

The fair also offers rare collections, including books from international publishing houses, age-old manuscripts, and facsimiles designed to inspire creativity and encourage reading. Additionally, live cooking stations showcase traditional Arabic cuisine for visitors to enjoy.

Over the past 43 years, the Sharjah International Book Fair has steadily grown to become the largest book fair in the world in terms of buying and selling rights. By November of last year, it had maintained this distinction for three consecutive years.

While last year’s event was the largest in the fair’s history, attracting over 2,000 publishers from 109 countries, this year’s edition is set to surpass that, with the highest number of participating countries in the event’s history.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, emphasized the importance of books in bridging cultures and fostering understanding in today’s interconnected world.

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah during the opening ceremony of the 43rd edition of Sharjah International Book Fair at Sharjah Expo Center on November 6, 2024. [Caroline Chebet, Standard]

“Over the past four decades, the Sharjah International Book Fair has emerged as a significant force in the global knowledge and creative industries. Our focus extends beyond the number of participating publishers and creatives to the profound impact their collective presence has, influencing both local and global economies,” Sheikha Bodour said.

Sharjah Book Authority CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri added that the international cultural event is a testament to Sharjah’s commitment to advancing knowledge and highlighting the essential role books play in disseminating it.

“Each gathering at the Sharjah International Book Fair reaffirms the foundational values of Sharjah’s ambitious cultural vision, where books have always been the bedrock of our highest aspirations,” Al Ameri said.

He further stated, “The fair has evolved into more than just a space for readers and visitors. It has become a comprehensive platform for a knowledge-based society, bringing together readers, authors, translators, and illustrators to explore the latest trends and exchange innovative ideas.”

He added that this year’s theme captures the belief that every significant journey of learning and personal growth begins with a book, especially in an era where information is abundant.

“The book is the origin of all things; it is the record of all human achievements. Books safeguard the histories and accomplishments of nations, and it is essential to recognize them as foundational tools that facilitate individual enlightenment and guide societies as they advance,” Al Ameri said.

Today, Sharjah is regarded as a cultural and literary hub in the region, drawing lovers of the written word from around the world.

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