Sharjah Selected As Guest Of Honour For The Warsaw International Book Fair 2026 Celebrating Arab Culture

Sharjah will be celebrated as the Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair 2026, scheduled from 28th to 31st May. This honour highlights Sharjah's significant role in promoting knowledge and cultural exchange globally. The emirate's efforts in advancing Arab civilisation on the world stage have been recognised through this selection.

The announcement was made during the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair. An agreement was signed between the Sharjah Book Authority and the History and Culture Foundation, organisers of the Warsaw event. Attendees included Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of Sharjah Book Authority, Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing at Sharjah Book Authority, and Jacek Oryl, Director of the Warsaw International Book Fair.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah Book Authority, stated that this selection underscores Sharjah's status as a global hub for books and knowledge. She emphasised that under His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi's vision, Sharjah continues to use literature to foster cultural development and mutual understanding.

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri highlighted that being named Guest of Honour reflects His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi’s leadership in promoting books as tools for progress. He noted that Sharjah’s cultural programme will showcase Emirati creativity and enhance international collaboration in publishing.

Jacek Oryl remarked on the growing cooperation between Poland and UAE, especially with culturally active emirates like Sharjah. He believes that Sharjah’s participation will forge lasting connections among authors, publishers, and readers from both nations while enhancing cultural understanding.

Sharjah has consistently played a pivotal role in representing Arab culture at major literary events worldwide. Its participation in cities like Madrid, Paris, São Paulo, Bologna, and Seoul has reinforced its mission to bridge cultures through literature.

Comprehensive Cultural Programme

As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present an extensive cultural programme led by the Sharjah Book Authority. This initiative aims to highlight Emirati and Arab talent in Europe through literary discussions, poetry readings, workshops, and artistic performances celebrating Emirati heritage.

The Warsaw International Book Fair is a significant cultural event in Poland since its inception in 1959. It remains a key fixture in Poland’s publishing sector.

This recognition further solidifies Sharjah’s commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and showcasing Arab creativity on a global platform.

With inputs from WAM