To showcase rich cultural programs and rare books on Sheikh Zayed
- The Ministry hosts cultural sessions and seminars featuring a distinguished lineup of writers and literary figures
- A ‘Youth and Cultural Identity Hackathon’ brings together young innovators to promote heritage awareness
- Reading sessions and interactive workshops for children take place throughout the fair
Sharjah, November 7, 2025: The Ministry of Culture is participating in the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, taking place from November 5 to 17 at Expo Centre Sharjah. As part of its participation, the Ministry presents a diverse cultural program celebrating Emirati identity, empowering creative talent, and inspiring future generations.
The program features daily sessions and seminars led by an esteemed lineup of writers, literary figures, and cultural icons, covering a wide range of topics. A dedicated youth corner, organised in collaboration with the Federal Youth Authority, hosts interactive panel discussions and debates, encouraging young voices to engage in cultural dialogue.
A key highlight is the ‘Youth and Cultural Identity Hackathon’, running from November 7 to 9, which brings together talented young Emiratis and experts to develop creative projects that enhance awareness of Emirati heritage. The Ministry is also presenting an Arabic Calligraphy and Ornamentation Exhibition, showcasing artworks enhanced through virtual reality technology.
For younger audiences, the children’s corner hosts We Read, Draw, and Dream Together, featuring interactive workshops, reading sessions of selected stories, and calligraphy and heritage-inspired activities designed to nurture creativity and imagination.
As part of its celebration of national heritage, the Ministry exhibits a collection of rare Arabic books and poetic works by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, including Falconry as a Sport: Our Arab Heritage, the poetry collections Graces from Al Dhafra and Pearl for the People, as well as other publications offering insights into his legacy of leadership, generosity, and nation-building.
Book signing sessions also take place for authors who are recipients of the Culture and Creativity Grants, providing a platform for them to present their work to readers and the wider public.
At its pavilion at the fair, the Ministry also highlights its key initiatives and policies that support the creative community, including the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity, the National Framework for Emirati Cultural Schools Activities, and recommendation services related to Creative Sabbatical Leave and Golden Visa.
His Excellency Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, emphasises that the Ministry’s participation reflects the Sharjah International Book Fair’s importance as one of the region’s foremost cultural platforms, playing a vital role in advancing the publishing industry and promoting literary and intellectual exchange.
H.E. notes that the participation aligns with the Ministry’s strategy to empower creatives, develop cultural and creative industries, and reinforce Emirati culture as a cornerstone in building an educated and innovative society. H.E. further highlights that the fair provides an invaluable opportunity to interact with writers, readers, and intellectuals, fostering cultural dialogue and inspiring a lifelong love of knowledge among younger generations.
The Ministry’s participation also underscores its commitment to supporting creatives through flagship initiatives such as the National Grant Program for Culture and Creativity, which benefited 43 Emirati creatives during its second cycle in 2024. The program facilitated the publication of distinguished works, including a novel, Qasr Al Zabaa by Mohammed Al Habsi, an illustrated book Under the Ghaf Tree by Sara Al Mehairi, and a children’s story series The Journey of Falah and Reem by Fatima Al Alili.
Over the years, the Ministry’s participation in the Sharjah International Book Fair has consistently drawn strong attendance and widespread public engagement. Its presence continues to enrich the national cultural landscape and elevate the presence of Emirati literature both regionally and globally.
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