Staff Report

The world-famous Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) will be back in November, and with safety as a top priority, it will be holding a unique hybrid edition for the first time. This means book lovers from across the nation will still be able to enjoy the experience of sifting through new and classic titles.

Carrying the theme 'The World Reads from Sharjah', the 39th edition of the SIBF is set to run from November 4 to 14, with the participation of hundreds of Arab and international publishers.

While its cultural programs will go fully digital, publishers will be present on site at the Expo Centre Sharjah. Throughout the 11-day event, safety protocols and Covid-19 precautions will be in place, including organised visits at specific times.

Rakkad Al Ameri, chairman of Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), said: "We believe that cultural activities must not stop even in challenging circumstances as enriching people's lives through reading, literacy and knowledge is a key driver for social development and prosperity. SBA's commitment to Sharjah's cultural legacy is in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, to build a bright present and promising future for the young generations by fostering knowledge and broadening their horizons through reading."

The SIBF 2020 theme is inspired by Sharjah's leading position as an incubator of Arab culture and a creative hub that attracts intellectuals, writers and artists to meet and share experiences.

In selecting the theme, SBA has affirmed that Sharjah is still welcoming literary leaders, readers, knowledge-seekers and learners from across the world.

Al Ameri said: "In keeping with our mission of promoting culture and creativity, SBA will deploy the latest technologies in visual communication to successfully host all its virtual events, activities and discussions. By providing a new experience for our audience, we want to reiterate that Sharjah is committed to being a true beacon of culture and knowledge."

The full details of the upcoming SIBF will be revealed at a Press conference later this month.

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