Top 5 Literary Events in the UAE
The UAE is an example of modernity and tradition that is also a growing hub for literary excellence. Here, the ink and ideas flow as freely as the sand shifts in the desert. The citizens not only celebrate literature but elevate it through a series of remarkable events that bring together writers, readers, and thinkers from every corner of the globe. Dive into the art of exploring the top five literary events in the Emirates. Each event brings the vibrant culture of the country to the attention of the audience.
5 literary events of the Emirates
Whether it be Dubai or Sharjah, a rich culture of literary events unfolds, weaving together the vibrant culture and voices of the region from across the globe. Whether it be the book’s inauguration or panel discussion, each event marks the beauty of celebrating the tradition of storytelling and knowledge, bringing all the avid readers to one spot. No matter if you are a reader, writer, or publisher, these events will leave you amazed, and you will learn something new.
1. The Emirates Airline Festival Of Literature
Dubai’s most loved literary event, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature (aka LitFest) happened from January 31 to February 6 2024. It was one of the best places for those parents who wanted to encourage a love of reading in their children. Each year, the festival gathers the world’s greatest literary, creative, and scientific minds in one place. The conversation is full of knowledge, and there are inspirational workshops for all ages.
Like every year, this year, there was a line-up of spectacular events. These included a new LitFest families segment specially arranged for younger book fans. There were interactive sessions with popular authors of the books. People got an opportunity to gain fascinating insights from a real-life adventurer princess, as HH Sheikha Mozah was present there. The festival also had a book launch segment where DR Sultan Al Neyadi launched his famous book. The author had one one-on-one interaction with the audience, in which he talked about his new book. Moreover, the visitors were given discounts on buying tickets in pairs and trios. The event ended positively.
2. Sharjah International Book Fair
Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is an 11-day international book event that is held every year. One of the world’s largest book fairs consisting of 400 literary events. This year, the event will start from November 6 to November 17 2024. The roots of the international book fair began almost 40 years back in 1982. The event debuted under the guidance and patronage of Sheikh Sultan bin Muhammad Al-Qasimi, who was the supreme council member and Ruler of Sharjah.
In 1982, when the event first started, it included a small number of publishers, and the king himself purchased the books. With years, this time, the SIBF will help 2213 publishers to showcase their books to the worldwide audience. Moreover, it will bring together 1298 Arab and 915 foreign publishing companies on one platform. Those who will be attending this event will meet 50 well-known Arab and foreign writers, thinkers, and artists coming from vast backgrounds. The exhibitors will showcase books in diverse genres, and the audience will be able to experience over 210 languages.
3. Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
As the book fair launched in 1981, it strived to uphold the original mission of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan, who was the father of the UAE. Sheikh believed that education and culture were the fundamental pillars for building a strong modern state and developing international relationships. In the beginning, this book fair was named the Islamic Book Fair. It served as a meeting point and marketplace for publishing houses in the Arab world.
Since that day, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair has gone from strength to strength, becoming an ideal global marketplace and a gateway to the thriving Arab publishing industry. This year, it entertained people from April 29 to May 5, 2024. It opened the pathway to build new partnerships, where people learned about the latest trends and discussed bestselling novels. It also provided a platform for readers and book collectors, where various creative books were showcased to encourage a culture of reading. It also served as a forum for the publishing industry. Participants discovered various publishers, illustrators, narrators, authors, and e-book service providers by witnessing live performances and workshops. Every year, they introduce international visitors to new dimensions of the region’s rich cultural and literary heritage.
4. Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival
Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), one of the popular annual events in Sharjah was initially launched by the Ruler of Sharjah and Supreme Council Members. It is an event that celebrates excellence in young adult literature. The festival aims to develop a love of reading in children by introducing them to renowned authors and writers. Ahmed Al Ameri, the Sharjah Book Authority chairman, calls the event a forerunner of knowledge and creativity in young minds.
This festival returned for its 15th edition, bigger and better than before, from May 1 to May 12 at the Sharjah Expo Center. The 12-day event featured various events, including theatrical performances, culinary displays, STEM courses, social media training, and music.
There were panel discussions featuring authors, publishers, and media personalities. SCRF also served as a networking platform for publishers, bookstores, literary agencies, writers, illustrators, artists, librarians, and governments to connect and promote local publishing and creative sectors.
5. Sharjah Biennial
An art event that focuses on bringing a broad range of contemporary art, cultural programs, and producers to the communities of Sharjah, the UAE, the region, and beyond. For artists and art aficionados, visiting the Sharjah Biennial is one of the most exciting activities to do living in Sharjah. This event fosters international dialogue through exhibitions and experimentation in all forms of art, as well as wide-ranging programs in music, film, performances, and learning. Launched in 1993, the Sharjah Biennial has been one of the most prominent events for art in this region.
From February 7 to June 11 2023, the event marked its 15th edition and 30th anniversary with a special theme, ‘Thinking Historically in the Present’. Sharjah Biennial-16 (SB16) will be held from February 6 to June 15 2025. This event will be curated by Natasha Ginwala, who is an artistic Director, and other curators. All these curators will propose distinct but interconnected projects that will together represent a diverse and global range of perspectives across the spectrum of contemporary art.
The final comment
Ranging from the influential Emirates Airline Festival of Literature to the Sharjah Biennial, these gatherings not only celebrate the written words but also open ways for fostering dynamic cultures.
If you are a resident in any of these cities, do pay a visit with your family. Enjoy the amazing culture these events promote, and help your children become readers. Mark your calendars for the upcoming event; as always, a reader will rule the world. Become a reader and develop this habit among your children.
