Sharjah Recognised As Guest Of Honour At The 30th Rabat International Book Fair In Morocco

Sharjah has been named the Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF) in Morocco. This recognition highlights Sharjah's cultural significance and its status as a global knowledge hub. Organised by Morocco's Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication, the event will occur from 17th to 27th April 2025 at OLM Souissi. The announcement was made during a ceremony attended by Khoula Al Mujaini and Latifa Moftaqir.

The decision to honour Sharjah aims to enhance cultural exchange between the UAE and Morocco. As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will showcase a rich cultural programme that celebrates Emirati literature and arts. This initiative will also highlight shared cultural values, fostering deeper understanding and collaboration between the two nations. The programme will include discussions featuring Emirati and Moroccan writers, promoting intellectual dialogue.

Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, emphasised the role of culture in connecting societies. She stated, "Culture is one of the most powerful channels through which nations and societies connect, fostering meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding." She added that Morocco's decision offers an opportunity to explore shared heritage and strengthen historical ties.

Morocco has long been a centre for creativity and scholarship, contributing significantly to global intellectual heritage. Sheikha Bodour noted that this recognition is not only a tribute to Sharjah but also a platform for exchanging expertise across Arab cultures. The event will serve as a catalyst for collaboration among publishers, writers, and intellectuals from both countries.

Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Morocco's Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, expressed delight at welcoming Sharjah as Guest of Honour. He remarked on the strong ties between Morocco and the UAE: "This reflects the strength and depth of the historical and fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United Arab Emirates." He acknowledged Sharjah's dedication to culture during previous events.

Expanding Cultural Exchange

Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, highlighted Morocco's cultural influence blending Arab-Islamic heritage with global thought. He stated that honouring Sharjah reaffirms deep-rooted cultural connections. Under Sheikha Bodour’s leadership, efforts focus on strengthening Arab-global cultural exchange through partnerships with Moroccan intellectuals.

The comprehensive programme at RIBF will feature over 15 Emirati publishers showcasing their latest works. It will include panel discussions with Emirati writers alongside Moroccan counterparts. Workshops for children will introduce them to Emirati heritage interactively while traditional performances display UAE’s diverse culture.

Emirati calligraphers will collaborate with Moroccan artists in celebrating Arabic calligraphy through joint artworks. This initiative underscores artistic ties between both nations while offering an immersive experience blending literature, art, and heritage at RIBF 2025.

The participation of Sharjah as Guest of Honour at RIBF 2025 signifies an important step in enhancing Arab cultural exchange. It strengthens bonds between intellectuals from both countries while celebrating shared heritage through diverse programmes highlighting Emirati achievements in literature and arts alongside Moroccan contributions globally.

With inputs from WAM