Sharjah: Poetry evenings are set to take center stage at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025), offering a platform for poets to present their works in eight different languages from November 5th to 16th. This year’s cultural programme will feature poetry readings in Arabic, Greek, English, Urdu, Punjabi, Malayalam, Russian, and Tagalog, creating a unique space for connecting cultures through verse.
According to Emirates News Agency, the poetry evenings will highlight leading poets from around the world. Notable Arab voices include Saeed Al Mana from Saudi Arabia, known for his participation in “Sha’er Al-Rayah”, and Qatari poet Hamad Al-Buraidi, author of “Mulhimat Thikrayati” and “Marahil”. Greece, this year’s Guest of Honour, will be represented by poet and translator Danae Sioziou, whose work has been widely translated.
The event will also feature Canadian poet Saara Ali, presenting both written and improvised English poetry. Urdu poetry will be prominently showcased with contributions from Dr. Zubair Farooq, the first Emirati poet writing in Urdu, alongside Pakistani poets Ataul Haq Qasmi and Dr. Inam-ul-Haq Javeid.
Indian poet Syed Ijazuddin Shah, known as Popular Meeruthi, will bring his satirical style to the event, while comedian Rehman Khan will add a blend of Urdu, Hindi, and English satire. US-based poet Khalid Irfan, known for satirical works, and Punjabi poet Syed Suleman Gilani are also expected to perform.
The Malayalam and English poetry scene will be represented by K. Satchidanandan from India, known for his extensive body of work and numerous accolades. Russian poetry will be showcased by Maxim Zamshev and Mikhail Levantovskiy, both of whom have made significant contributions to Russian literature.
Tagalog poetic forms will be highlighted by Filipino poet Luna Sicat Cleto, known for her bilingual poetry collection “Bago Mo Ako Ipalaot”. Cleto has been recognized with several awards, further emphasizing the diverse international presence at SIBF 2025.
Organized by the Sharjah Book Authority, the fair will host 2,350 publishers from 118 countries and over 250 authors and creatives from 66 countries. The 44th edition promises more than 1,200 cultural and artistic events over its 12-day span.