Sharjah: The 2nd Edition of the highly anticipated Emirati Book Fair (EBF) is all set to take place at the SBA headquarters in Sharjah from the 20th of April to the 24th.
The event, a collaboration between Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and Emirates Writers Union provides a public platform to 10 Emirati publishing houses, allowing them to showcase thousands of works by local authors.
The book fair, which will be open for Public starting from the 21st of April between 9 PM – 1 AM will also facilitate panel discussions and poetry evenings that will be led by renowned Emirati authors and intellectuals.
EBF provides a platform for publishers, authors, and intellectuals to network, highlights new titles by emerging writers, sheds light on the creative journeys of the UAE’s literary talents and covers various cultural topics, in addition to spotlighting UAE’s thriving cultural scene.
The event promotes local content of every genre, including academic books, novels, historical titles and children’s literature.
EBF stems from the directives of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to support and strengthen the Emirati publishing industry. His Highness holds the works of every Emirati author in high esteem, and we look forward to nurturing this book fair into the biggest platform for Emirati publishers and writers in the country.
Mr. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of SBA, remarked while sharing about the importance of the event.
The SBA Chairman further added that, “EBF attests to the growth of the Emirati publishing sector, and presents a unique opportunity for readers to explore Emirati publishers’ latest offerings. Therefore, SBA is intent on establishing the book fair as a regular feature on Sharjah’s annual cultural calendar that bolsters the emirate’s status as a globally recognized literary and publishing hub.”
Meanwhile, Mr. Sultan Al Amimi, Chairman of the Board of Directors, Emirates Writers Union, observed that, “EBF reflects the country’s vision to commend and celebrate its exceptional authors and other intellectuals and to invest in knowledge-based communities. It is but natural that Sharjah should host such an event, as the emirate has assumed a crucial responsibility to represent and promote Emirati literature and culture. His Highness the ruler of Sharjah has laid a solid foundation to position Sharjah as the cultural capital of the country and the Arab world, and as the UNESCO World Book Capital.”
Mr. Al Amimi elaborated that, “The Emirates Writers Union is proud to work with SBA, which is driving forward the Emirati publishing industry locally, regionally and internationally, and we look towards finding EBF a permanent place on the country’s annual cultural agenda.”