Sharjah:The 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2026) is set to open tomorrow at Expo Centre Sharjah. This year's event will feature a remarkable gathering of 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, showcasing a diverse collection of 1.7 million titles in various languages and genres. Organized by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), the fair will run until November 15 under the theme 'Made of Stories'.
According to Wam, the event will span 12 days and include 1,500 cultural, creative, and artistic events with 106 guests from 25 countries. The program will cover a broad spectrum of topics, including fiction, poetry, history, science, and the arts, alongside theatrical performances, workshops, and interactive experiences.
The Sultanate of Oman will be the Guest of Honour, presenting a cultural and artistic program that explores its rich history, heritage, and cultural identity. The program will include 16 cultural discussions, six children's workshops, and 20 artistic performances, with participation from 50 guests, including 41 writers and poets.
Among the highlights of the fair is the honoring of Moroccan scholar Dr. Said Yaktine as the Cultural Personality of the Year, in recognition of his significant contributions to Arabic narratology and literary criticism over the past four decades.
Prominent personalities such as Emirati writers, poets, and artists, along with international participants including American writer Daisy Rockwell and Chinese novelist Liu Zhenyun, will also participate in the fair. Interactive experiences like 'Poets' Corner' and 'Future Hands District' will engage visitors of all ages in creative activities.
The fair will also introduce several major productions, including the musical theatre show When Memories Sing and the interactive family show Impossible or Science?!, as well as host the fifth edition of the Thriller Festival in collaboration with Capital Crime London and Thriller Festival New York.
To enhance accessibility, the Sharjah Book Authority will provide transportation services, including daily bus services from Dubai and Ajman, free boat transport from Sharjah, and additional parking with shuttle bus connections to the venue.