Sharjah Literature Festival Returns For Second Edition Under Theme 'A Community Woven Through Tales'

The Sharjah Literature Festival will return to University City Hall from 5th to 11th January 2026. The second edition carries the theme "A Community Woven Through Tales." The seven-day event will highlight Emirati literary talent and new writing trends. Visitors will find discussions, performances, workshops and a book fair featuring Emirati publishers.

The programme includes 24 activities featuring panel debates, poetry evenings, and musical and cultural performances. A dedicated book fair will present recent releases from Emirati publishing houses. Fourteen workshops will cover Arabic calligraphy, storytelling and creative arts. Additional entertainment and displays of handmade items inspired by local heritage will also be available throughout the festival.

The festival is held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. His Highness is Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah. H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi supports the event as Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority. The Emirate’s cultural bodies aim to link writers and audiences, while strengthening community engagement with books.

H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi stressed that literature shapes societies and protects shared memory. She explained that stories create connections through empathy, mutual understanding and belonging. "Through the Sharjah Literature Festival, we celebrate the power of words to connect communities, broaden minds, and foster a healthy, compassionate society," She said. She also described literature as a lasting source of emotional and cultural bonds.

Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, stated that preparations are complete. Rashid Al Kous said the second edition will present a rich and varied schedule, mirroring the UAE’s cultural depth. The event, co-organised with the Sharjah Book Authority, will support Emirati authors and publishers. It will also help build a creative environment that adds to Sharjah’s cultural scene.

With inputs from WAM