In the UAE, where tradition meets innovation, there’s something magical about diving into a good book, whether it’s curled up at home in Dubai or sipping karak chai in a Sharjah café. The Sharjah Book Fair captures that magic, transforming the city into a vibrant hub for anyone who loves stories, ideas, and culture. This annual event isn’t just about browsing books; it’s a celebration of connection and creativity that resonates deeply with Emiratis, expats, and visitors alike. Let’s take a stroll through why this fair is a highlight of the UAE’s cultural calendar and what makes it so special.
A Literary Fiesta for Everyone
Picture a place where kids flip through colorful storybooks, students hunt for academic gems, and poetry fans lose themselves in verse, all under one roof. That’s the Sharjah Book Fair in a nutshell. Held every year at the Sharjah Expo Centre, this event brings together readers, writers, and publishers from across the globe. Its 42nd edition, themed “We Talk Books,” lived up to its name, offering a treasure trove of titles for every taste, from gripping novels to insightful non-fiction.
What sets this fair apart is its warm, inclusive vibe. Whether you’re a lifelong bookworm or just curious, you’ll find something to spark your interest. For UAE residents, it’s a chance to connect with the country’s love for knowledge, a value championed by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, who launched the fair back in 1982. It’s no wonder families in Abu Dhabi and Ajman mark their calendars for this literary getaway.
Spotlight on Urdu Literature
This year, the fair turned heads with its focus on Urdu literature, a nod to the UAE’s diverse community. Partnering with Bazm-e-Urdu Dubai, the fair created a dedicated space for Urdu books that buzzed with excitement. Visitors flocked to explore novels, poetry collections, and more, soaking in the rich heritage of the language. A highlight was the launch of Atr-e-Daan by Shadab Ulfat, a book that captured hearts with its lyrical storytelling.
The event wasn’t just about books, it was a cultural bridge. For the UAE’s Urdu-speaking residents, it felt like a homecoming, while others discovered the beauty of a new literary world. This blend of local and global voices is what makes the fair a true reflection of the Emirates’ multicultural spirit.
A Night of Words and Wonder
One evening at the Sharjah Book Fair stood out: a star-packed event hosted by Bazm-e-Urdu at the Expo Centre’s Intellectual Hall. The night kicked off with the launch of Atr-e-Daan and Hijraton Ka Zamana by Syed Surosh Asif, drawing a crowd eager to celebrate Urdu’s artistry. Farzana Mansoor guided the evening with grace, while big names like Indian poet Mahshar Afridi and Pakistan’s Aftab Iqbal added serious star power.
Aftab Iqbal couldn’t stop praising the UAE’s commitment to literature, calling the fair a “beacon of knowledge” and thanking Sheikh Dr. Sultan for his vision. His words hit home for many in the audience, who see the UAE as a place where culture thrives. The night wrapped up with a poetry session that had everyone spellbound, poets like Shahbaz Shamsi and Dr. Asim Sabahat Wasti shared verses that lingered long after the applause faded.
Poetry, Glamour, and Community
The poetry session was a crowd-pleaser, blending soulful recitations with a dash of showbiz flair. Bollywood’s M.S. Khan and Bhojpuri star Sohail Khan popped in, proving this fair isn’t just for book nerds, it’s a place where creativity crosses boundaries. Dr. Asghar Kamal kept the energy high as host, while the poets’ words wove stories of love, loss, and hope that resonated with the UAE’s diverse crowd.
For locals and expats alike, moments like these capture the fair’s ability to bring people together. Whether you’re from Sharjah or visiting from Ras Al Khaimah, it’s a reminder of how stories and poetry can spark conversations and build friendships.
More Than Just a Book Market
The Sharjah Book Fair isn’t your average book sale, it’s a cultural heartbeat. Beyond the stacks of novels and textbooks, it’s a space to swap ideas, discover new perspectives, and celebrate the UAE’s role as a global hub for learning. Events like the Urdu evening show how the fair embraces every language and community, making everyone feel included. For families, it’s a fun outing to inspire kids to read. For writers, it’s a chance to shine. And for everyone else, it’s a place to get lost in the joy of discovery.
Your Invitation to the Sharjah Book Fair
Whether you’re hunting for your next favorite novel or just want to soak up the literary vibe, the Sharjah Book Fair is where it’s at. It’s a celebration of what makes the UAE special: its passion for knowledge, its embrace of diversity, and its knack for bringing people together. Next time you’re craving inspiration, head to Sharjah and let the stories sweep you away. Your bookshelf and your heart will thank you.