Categories
Events Lite Blogs Sharjah

Kalimat Group’s Rewayat imprint encourages introspection & self-love at SIBF 2023

The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation…reports Asian Lite News

Many book-inspired activities at the ongoing 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) are taking visitors on unique journeys of learning and new discoveries. Amongst thousands of such offerings, one stands out – a silent parade organised by Rewayat imprint of the UAE-based publisher Kalimat Group.

The parade is inspired by their latest book release, titled Mirror Meditation: The Power of Neuroscience and Self-Reflection to Overcome Self-Criticism written by Dr. Tara Well, a psychology professor and self-awareness coach.

The latest Rewayat release explores the mirror as a companion teaching self-care before self-presentation. It calls for discovering inner calm and experiencing a life enriched by contemplation.

The silent parade led by talented artists offers a stark contrast to the bustle of the lively book fair demanding immediate attention. The parade glides across the book fair’s premises, with the artists holding mirrors and gazing into them contemplatively, symbolic of the need for self-reflection and introspection.

The artist’s painted faces make their introspective stance more prominent to the audiences, encouraging them to look inwards, and perhaps, turn to the book that inspired this unique artistic performance.

SIBF 2023’s theme, ‘We Speak Books,’ encapsulates most activities, including Rewayat’s parade introducing the book, where author Dr. Tara Well raises self-reflective questions about our image in the mirror. She proposes that we look at ourselves to gain a deeper understanding and wisdom about our identities.

Well believes that mirrors can elicit powerful feelings and offer unexpected self-insights. They are fundamental tools for addressing life’s challenges because they allow us to confront ourselves directly.

ALSO READ-Eye-opening consequences of our clothing choices in the era of fast fashion

Categories
Health Lite Blogs Sharjah

Yasmin Karachiwala Shares Insights on Staying Fit and Healthy in Busy Lives

Buying The Perfect 10 gives the reader access to a QR code that will take them to her exercise videos. The energetic coach also got the audience to do some of her exercises without leaving their chairs…reports Asian Lite News

“Results are about how you feel –  are you waking up brighter, sleeping better, feeling less stressed or doing day-to-day tasks without groaning,” pointed out celebrity fitness coach Yasmin Karachiwala as she listed the benefits of keeping fit at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair.

Karachiwala, who has a fitness studio, was discussing her new book The Perfect 10: 10 minute workouts you can do anywhere with film journalist Manju Ramanan.

The Bombay-born, US-educated author and fitness expert whose first book Sculpt and Shape: The Pilates Way was well-received, noted that the new book was ideal for those who lacked time or motivation to work out. “I make money because people don’t move,” she stated.

Karachiwala categorised people into different groups based on their workout habits or lack of it — the overachievers who worked too hard, the steadfast who exercised regularly, the dreamers who only dreamt of a fit body, the dippers who worked for a short time and dropped out, the goalies who set goals, groupees who exercises in groups, the walkers, sports hobbyists, reluctants, and busy bees who had no time for it. She said her book was apt for the busy bees as it gave 25 stacks of 10-minute workouts.

Buying The Perfect 10 gives the reader access to a QR code that will take them to her exercise videos. The energetic coach also got the audience to do some of her exercises without leaving their chairs.

The fitness advocate also asked her audience to take intermittent fasting with caution. “If it is done with planning, it is okay. But if all you can think about is food during the fasting time, it is not for you,” she advised.

“Abs are made in the kitchen”, she pointed out, and advised against abusing one’s body with food. She does not take cheat days, only cheat meals like a biryani. She stressed the need to follow proper nutrition and hydration and build muscles.

One of the best fitness trainers in Bollywood, Yasmin’s clientele includes Kareena Kapoor, Katrina Kaif, Deepika Padukone, and Alia Bhatt. Interestingly, filmstars do not expect to be treated differently and are very disciplined about working out despite their long work hours, she disclosed. 

A winner of numerous awards including the Best Fitness Instructor award at Vogue Fashion Awards 2013, Karachiwala has a large fan following on instagram and YouTube. Her food recipes on social media are also popular with followers.

ALSO READ-Role of AI in enhancing visitor experience & library services

Categories
Lite Blogs Sharjah UAE News

SIBF 2023: Poetic Minds Unite Against AI’s Creative Limitations

Hoshang Osi, a prize-winning Syrian-Kurdish poet and novelist, likened AI to beauty laboratories in cosmetics, envisioning its potential sophistication in the future but avoiding predictions about its nature in 2050….reports Asian Lite News

In a thought-provoking discussion on “Verses in the Digital Age” at the 42nd Sharjah International Book Fair, poets Shelby Leigh from the USA and Hoshang Osi from Syria emphasized the irreplaceable role of human creativity and emotions, asserting that artificial intelligence (AI) and ChatGPT cannot replicate these essential elements.

Moderated by Emirati TV presenter Alya Al Mansoori, the session delved into the evolving trends of poetry on social media platforms and explored the increasing attraction of readers to connect with poets online.

Hoshang Osi, a Syrian-Kurdish poet and award-winning novelist, drew a parallel between AI and beauty laboratories in cosmetics, describing AI as potentially sophisticated in the future but refraining from making predictions about its nature in 2050. He likened poetry to a free-flowing river on social media, an open space that adapts to the poet’s situation or location, defying easy definition unlike prose and drama.

Reflecting on the language in his works, Osi noted that his literature mirrored the linguistic qualities of the language he wrote in, aiming for an easy and authentic connection with the reader.

Shelby Leigh, a poet and mental health advocate with over seven years of online writing experience, shared her journey of initially writing anonymously about mental health issues such as anxiety from her own experiences and emotions. Leigh, who now hosts a virtual poetic community and assists aspiring writers in getting their works published, emphasized that AI, while a supportive tool, cannot replace the depth of her emotions and creativity. She highlighted the joy of connecting with people on social media but emphasized the unique human element that AI lacks.

Both poets delighted poetry enthusiasts by reading excerpts from their poems during the engaging session.

ALSO READ: Sharjah’s Cultural and Tourism Events Shine at WTM London

Categories
Lite Blogs Sharjah UAE News

Eye-opening consequences of our clothing choices in the era of fast fashion

Khamisani was among the first wave of the pioneering ethical fashion movement in Europe in the mid-2000s, setting up the independent fashion brand Outsider in London in 2009…reports Asian Lite News

Visitors to the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) had the opportunity to engage with designer and environmental advocate Noorin Khamisani as she addressed the profound impact of the fast fashion industry on the environment and its ethical implications.

In a one-on-one conversation with radio presenter Louis Denham, Khamisani provided an eye-opening journey into the often-overlooked consequences of our clothing choices.

“I think one of the most difficult things is that a lot of fast fashion, no matter what kind of garment it is, is made from polyester, which is basically plastic. And then if that ends up being thrown into a landfill, well, as far as we know, it’s never going to biodegrade,” warned Khamisani who currently works as the Programme Leader in Postgraduate Fashion at Istituto Marangoni London.

“I think one of our biggest challenges is to move away from being so dependent on polyester and synthetic fabrics in general”, she added.

When asked how she would differentiate a need from a want when it comes to fashion, Noorin noted: “I think you have to be honest with yourself. Most of us have about 70 percent of our wardrobes just hanging there, with clothes that never get worn. So it’s all about going into your wardrobe and looking through and sometimes rediscovering things”.

“And that’s where we come back to thinking of fashion as a verb, as something that we do. So how do we fashion ourselves? How do we interact with fashion rather than fashion always being about consumption,” she added, urging the audience to “share and swap” clothes with friends. 

“If they just don’t work for us anymore, chances are you might have a friend who might really love that piece, and they might get that lovely emotional bond of knowing that it belonged to you and that it’s being passed on to them. And I think this is where fashion becomes so much more meaningful”.

Talking about the “whole new realm” for fashion designers to create “digital garments” for people that “just want to have a new outfit on Instagram”, she said: “This is complicated. It’s not like a complete replacement, but it does help to get us thinking differently. Like if all you want is to wear it on Instagram, why do you need to physically own that?,” she asked.

Khamisani was among the first wave of the pioneering ethical fashion movement in Europe in the mid-2000s, setting up the independent fashion brand Outsider in London in 2009. She continues to exhibit and sell her work internationally as well as lecturing in fashion design after being part of the founding faculty at the Dubai Institute of Design and Innovation (DIDI) in 2019.

ALSO READ-Role of AI in enhancing visitor experience & library services

Categories
Arab News Sharjah UAE News

Sharjah Named Guest of Honour at Thessaloniki Book Fair

The emirate will take center stage as the Guest of Honour during the upcoming edition of the fair, scheduled from May 16th to May 19th, 2024….reports Asian Lite News

Sharjah, a beacon of global cultural significance, is poised to showcase the rich culture and heritage of the UAE and the Arab world at the prestigious Thessaloniki International Book Fair in Greece.

The emirate will take center stage as the Guest of Honour during the upcoming edition of the fair, scheduled from May 16th to May 19th, 2024.

This momentous announcement was made during the ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023). The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and the Hellenic Foundation for Culture formalized the announcement through a signing ceremony, led by Nikos Koukis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, and Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing, SBA.

The event witnessed the presence of key figures, including Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, and members of the Greek delegation attending the book fair.

HE Ahmed Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, expressed his gratitude for this esteemed title, stating, “Sharjah’s participation in the Thessaloniki International Book Fair represents a fresh opportunity for Emirati and Arab culture to engage in profound dialogue with Europe. This recognition stands as a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.”

Al Ameri highlighted the enduring connections between Sharjah’s cultural institutions and their Greek counterparts, emphasizing the power of books as a universal language. He further outlined Sharjah’s journey as the Capital of Arab and Islamic Cultures, World Book Capital, and host of the world’s largest book fair since 2020.

Nikos Koukis, President of the Hellenic Foundation for Culture, expressed deep honor and confidence in celebrating Sharjah as the Guest of Honour. He noted the two-year collaboration in the making and anticipated that this partnership would strengthen cultural bonds between Greece, Sharjah, the UAE, and the Arab world.

Khoulah Al Majini, Director of Events and Marketing at SBA, emphasized Sharjah’s commitment to providing a vivid portrayal of Emirati and Arab culture at international book fairs. She highlighted the intention to convey the deep-rooted historical relations between Arab and Greek cultures through various mediums such as literature, music, and folk heritage.

The Thessaloniki International Book Fair, initiated in 2004, has evolved into a prominent platform for global literature. Organized by the Hellenic Foundation for Culture in collaboration with Greek publishers and supported by various entities, the fair showcases literary works from Greece, the Balkans, Western Europe, the Southeastern Mediterranean, and around the world. This collaboration underscores Sharjah’s dedication to promoting cultural exchange and dialogue on the international stage.

ALSO READ: Sharjah’s Cultural and Tourism Events Shine at WTM London

Categories
-Top News Arab News Sharjah

Sharjah’s Cultural and Tourism Events Shine at WTM London

The Centre is part of an official delegation to the World Travel Market that includes a number of government and private sector entities from Sharjah…reports Asian Lite News

Expo Centre Sharjah (ECS) is currently participating in the 43rd edition of the World Travel Market, which is being held in London from 6th-8th November. During the event, ECS aims to promote the economic, cultural, and tourism events it organises and hosts throughout the year.

The Centre is part of an official delegation to the World Travel Market that includes a number of government and private sector entities from Sharjah, organised in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. The Emirate of Sharjah dispatched the delegation in the context of its efforts to review the current reality of tourism in Sharjah and the latest developments, actors, and projects in the field, while highlighting top Sharjah exhibitions.

Saif Mohammed Al Midfa, CEO of Expo Centre Sharjah, said, “Expo Centre Sharjah is pleased to participate in the World Travel Market in London in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority. This major exhibition provides us with an opportunity to showcase the diverse economic, cultural, and tourism events we organise and host throughout the year, further enhancing Sharjah’s position on the global tourism map. Our participation in this event is part of our ongoing efforts to advance our international partnerships and offer investment opportunities in Sharjah.”

Al Midfa noted that, while participating in the World Travel Market, the Centre’s delegation is holding meetings with several major global entities and institutions, to strengthen cooperation and build new partnerships by ensuring the ECS offers the latest developments, amenities, and services for organising exhibitions and conferences.

Besides Expo Centre Sharjah, 18 government and private sector entities are participating in this year’s Sharjah Pavilion at the World Travel Market, in cooperation with the Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority.

The World Travel Market in London is a leading global event in the travel and tourism sector, allowing those interested in the tourism industry to learn about thousands of global destinations and brands. The event attracts top speakers, businessmen, and leaders from a diverse array of economic, tourism and cultural sectors.

ALSO READ: Sheikh Mohammed Opens Gulfood Manufacturing

Categories
-Top News Sharjah UAE News

Sharjah Ruler’s Dh4.5M Grant to Enrich Libraries

The will help acquisition of publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the Sharjah International Book Fair….reports Asian Lite News

His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, has allocated AED 4.5 million for the acquisition of the latest publications presented by 2033 Arab and international publishers during the ongoing 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair. This initiative aims to furnish the public and government libraries in the Emirates with a diverse range of literary content.

This endeavour is deeply rooted in His Highness’s vision to bolster the publishing industry in the region and worldwide, thereby strengthening the prospects and success of publishers. Concurrently, it seeks to broaden the knowledge resources accessible to the communities of Sharjah and the UAE, encompassing readers, researchers, and students. Furthermore, it underscores the pivotal role of libraries in shaping a knowledge-based society and enhancing their contributions towards achieving a comprehensive and sustainable cultural renaissance.

Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, expressed, “The grant from His Highness is a continuation of Sharjah’s ongoing efforts to strengthen the publishing industry and enrich both public and government libraries. The support offered by the Sharjah Ruler each year enables publishers to continue to grow and expand. It also updates Sharjah’s libraries with new releases across genres of science, knowledge and literature, which enables them to better serve their members and visitors and continue fostering a knowledge-based society”.

She added, “SIBF has evolved into a holistic event that encompasses vital roles of book promotion, marketing as well as the enhancement of culture and knowledge-related activities. It has also emerged as a global platform that empowers publishers to overcome challenges through support, training, awards, and other resources. All these contributions have further solidified Sharjah’s appeal as a preferred destination for regional and international professionals in the book industry. Furthermore, the emirate’s libraries have become go-to destinations for students and researchers, owing to the wealth of knowledge and diverse range of books and publications they offer.”

The grant signifies a renewed commitment to support government and private libraries in the emirate, encompassing various scientific and literary disciplines in multiple languages. Each year, it enriches the libraries with thousands of new titles, further solidifying Sharjah’s reputation as one of the leading cities supporting initiatives for knowledge-based societies, actively contributing to the advancement of scientific research and the creation of substantial content.

SIBF Explores Ithra’s Global Impact

The ongoing Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) recently hosted Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz Centre for World Culture (Ithra) in an engaging session featuring esteemed members and past winners of its renowned reading competition.

Emphasising the centre’s dedication to its founding pillars of culture, creativity, community, art, and knowledge, the session exemplified Ithra’s mission to cultivate a vibrant literary community and encourage a deeper engagement with the word.

The esteemed panellists, comprising distinguished Ithra members, Tariq Khawaji, a cultural consultant at Ithra and supervisor of the Ithra Reading Program (iRead) and previous winners of the reading competition, Duaa Hassnin from Egypt and Sufyan al-Buraq, 2023 winner of Ithra competition from Morocco, offered insightful perspectives and personal anecdotes that underscored the transformative power of literature and the enduring impact of Ithra’s initiatives on their literary journeys.

Tariq Khawaji shared Ithra‘s journey since its establishment in 2018 to promote literacy and cultivate a dynamic cultural landscape. He stated that the Ithra reading competition began as a local literary event in the Al-Sharqiyyah region in eastern Saudi Arabia only to turn national in response to the high number of entries received in the first edition and, ultimately, into a regional competition for Arab readers and writers in the Arab world.

Sharing heartfelt accounts of their literary explorations and the impact of Ithra’s programmes on their academic aspirations, the panellists underscored the pivotal role of the reading competition in nurturing a lifelong love for reading and fostering a deep appreciation for diverse literary genres and narratives.

The session served as an inspiration for aspiring readers and literary enthusiasts attending the discussion at SIBF, which runs in Expo Centre Sharjah until 12th November, with the theme of “We Speak Books”.

ALSO READ: Neena Rocks Sharjah Book Fair

Categories
Arts & Culture Lite Blogs Sharjah

Neena Rocks Sharjah Book Fair

The two-time National Award-winning actor, filmmaker and producer fielded questions on the lack of a godfather in cinema, the casting couch phenomenon and her earlier life as a single unmarried mother…reports Asian Lite News

“I wouldn’t have written the book if I weren’t successful,” quipped veteran Indian actor Neena Gupta about her 2021 memoir Sach Kahun Toh: An Autobiography as she sent a houseful of fans into peals of laughter at the Sharjah International Book Fair happening at Expo Centre Sharjah.In a freewheeling conversation with journalist Manjusha Radhakrishnan, Neena Gupta regaled a rapt audience with a humorous,sardonic yet matter-of-fact take on her unconventional life and the Indian Hindi film industry.

Gupta, who was accompanied by her husband Vivek Mehra, refuted that it was a searing account of the ups and downs in her life “because it is dangerous to speak the truth”. “I haven’t revealed the most vulnerable part of my life though I have always been honest about the way I behave, dress, or eat. But because of my profession, the press made me look like someone else,” said the actor, who is best known for her 2018 movie Badhai Ho.

The two-time National Award-winning actor, filmmaker and producer fielded questions on the lack of a godfather in cinema, the casting couch phenomenon and her earlier life as a single unmarried mother. “Most of my life I worked for money because I had no money,” she opened up. National awards did not bring her many offers, and “if it weren’t for Badhai Ho, I would still be doing smaller roles”, she stated. Regarding her daughter Masaba, whose OTT release Masaba Masaba became a big hit, Gupta said she had dissuaded her from the field.

The actor said that she had chosen Covid to pen her witty and unapologetically funny memoir; the time was also right because some of her close kin had passed away and the revelations would no longer matter to them. She said she had “some good memories” about Masaba’s father cricketer Vivian Richards. Her advice to fans was to “move on in life whatever happens”.

Sach Kahun Toh (meaning To tell the Truth) chronicles Gupta’s extraordinary personal and professional journey – from her childhood days in Delhi, through her time at NSD, to moving to Bombay in the 1980s and dealing with the struggles to find work. It details the big milestones in her life, and a successful second innings in Bollywood. A candid, self-deprecating portrait of the person behind the persona, it talks about her life’s many choices, battling stereotypes, then and now.

ALSO READ-Soyinka Shares Views on ‘Afrofuturism’

Categories
Arts & Culture Lite Blogs Sharjah

Soyinka Shares Views on ‘Afrofuturism’

Through their literary prowess, new authors are crafting tales that challenge conventional notions of time and space while honouring the richness of African heritage…reports Asian Lite News

As part of the cultural programme curated by the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, the spotlight was cast upon the esteemed Nigerian Nobel laureate, Wole Soyinka. In an engaging discussion, Wole Soyinka and the distinguished Sudanese poet, Alim Abbas, captivated the audience with their enlightening discussion titled ‘Exploring Afrofuturism: Reimagining Black Identity and Culture in Contemporary Literature.’

panel discussion titled ‘Exploring Afrofuturism: Reimagining Black Identity and Culture in Contemporary Literature.’’ during the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair

In a room filled with literary enthusiasts, the two authors explored how Africa should be portrayed in the rapidly growing world of literature. The session began with the moderator setting the stage, emphasising the emerging movement within contemporary African literature, which envisions a future that is firmly grounded in a reimagined and redefined sense of identity and culture.

Celebrating resilience and cultural dynamism

This movement, known as Afrofuturism, is, in the words of Wole Soyinka, “encapsulating a visionary blend of science fiction, historical fiction, and magical realism, serving as a conduit for the exploration and reimagining of the black experience.” By weaving elements of technology, ancient traditions, and a deep-seated cultural pride, Afrofuturist writers carve out a unique space where the past, present, and future converge in exhilarating ways.

Through their literary prowess, new authors are crafting tales that challenge conventional notions of time and space while honouring the richness of African heritage. These academic pioneers infuse their works with a vibrant tapestry of mythologies, folklore, and cutting-edge technological innovations, constructing a narrative landscape that celebrates resilience and cultural dynamism.

Expanding on this concept Soyinka said, “Within the realm of Afrofuturism, the exploration of identity takes the helm, delving into the complexities of what it means to be black in a rapidly evolving world. Through their protagonists, these writers navigate themes of displacement, cultural erasure, and the quest for self-discovery, offering a lens through which readers can reflect on the multifaceted nature of the African experience.”

Storytelling: A vehicle for transformation and empowerment

Alim Abbas, on the other hand, noted that the impact of Afrofuturism extends beyond the realms of literature and permeates various art forms. He further pointed out that the infusion of futuristic elements into traditional African aesthetics has sparked a global renaissance, fostering a sense of empowerment and cultural pride among individuals of African descent.

Abbas gave the audience his perspective of the emerging genre saying, “Afrofuturism stands as a testament to the power of storytelling as a vehicle for transformation and empowerment. By embracing the boundless potential of the imagination, Afrofuturist authors continue to redefine the narrative of black identity and culture, forging a path toward a future that is both technologically advanced and deeply rooted in the essence of African heritage.”

ALSO READ-India Art Festival’s Cultural Oasis in Delhi

Categories
Lite Blogs Sharjah UAE News

‘We Speak Books’

The 42nd annual Sharjah International Book Fair opened its doors with 2,033 publishers and exhibitors from 108 countries showcasing 1.5 million titles.

Creatives and creators from 108 countries converged at the Expo Centre Sharjah on Wednesday, marking the commencement of a cultural odyssey that will span 12 extraordinary days during the 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023). Joining them are publishers, distributors, translators, and bibliophiles, surrounded by more than 1.5 million titles from seven continents, uniting in this global literary celebration.

SIBF 2023, themed ‘We Speak Books,’ offers visitors a unique opportunity to traverse time and space. This year, the international event celebrates South Korea as the Guest of Honour, presenting its rich cultural heritage and contemporary contributions alongside 2,033 publishers representing their respective nations, showcasing their intellectual and creative works in Sharjah.

2,033 publishers, 1.5 million titles

This year, 1,043 Arab and 990 international publishers will present over 1.5 million titles, including 800,000 in Arabic and 700,000 in other languages at SIBF 2023. The UAE leads the list of Arabic participants with 300 publishers showcasing their latest works, followed by Egypt with 284, Lebanon with 94, and Syria with 62. On the international front, publishers from India, the UK, and Turkey top the list of participations.

Emirati and Arab guests

SIBF 2023 is hosting prominent Emirati writers, thinkers, and poets, including distinguished figures such as poet and researcher Khaled Al-Badou, author Dr. Mashael Al Nabooda, author and journalist Adel Khozam, author and journalist Mohammed Al Jokar, researcher and author Suad Al-Araimi, author Fathia Al Nimr, author Dr. Aisha Al-Ghais, author Saeed Al Badi, and others.

From the Arab world, SIBF 2023 welcomes Libyan writer and novelist Ibrahim Al-Koni as the ‘Cultural Personality of the Year’, Algerian writer and novelist Ahlam Mosteghanemi, Egyptian novelist and screenwriter Ahmed Mourad, Dr. Mohamed El Ghandoor, Kuwaiti author Bothayna Al Issa, Tarek Emam the critic and the Egyptian poet, Lebanese poet Talal Haydar, Egyptian poet and author Nour Abdel Megiud, Egyptian media personality Reham Ayad, and writers Sarah and Hagar Abdul Rahman, alongside a number of Arab poets, including the Saudi Fahad Al Shahrani, Qatari Nasser Al Wubeir, and Kuwaiti Sharean Al Deehani.

International guests

This year, SIBF 2023 will host Nigerian author Wole Soyinka, a Nobel laureate in Literature in 1986; Canadian journalist, author, and public speaker Malcolm Gladwell; Indian actress Kareena Kapoor; Swedish behavioural expert, bestselling author, and active lecturer Thomas Erikson; Bulgarian author and poet Georgi Gospodinov; Vaclav Smil, Czech-Canadian scientist and author known for his expertise in energy, environment, and technology; American astronaut Sunitha Williams; Dutch author, speaker, and life coach Swami Purnachaitanya; Indian author Monica Halan, and many others.

Six interactive spaces

SIBF 2023 will be home to more than 1,700 activities led by 215 guests from 69 countries. This includes 460 cultural activities led by 127 Arab and international guests, including renowned writers, thinkers, intellectuals, and artists, and Nobel laureates in literature, and recipients of prestigious Arab and international awards. Furthermore, 900 workshops will be held in six interactive spaces led by 31 guests from 12 countries.

S. Korea’s Guest of Honour programme

To celebrate its participation as SIBF 2023 Guest of Honour, South Korea will organise 17 activities as part of its cultural programme titled ‘Imagination Without Borders.’ The exciting agenda includes 15 cultural programmes, 7 panel discussions, and 5 musical performances by a selection of Korean artists. The honorary guest will also host 3 renowned chefs at the Cookery Corner, in addition to children’s entertainment shows and activities.

Social Media Station

Throughout the 12-day book fair, the Social Media Station will host workshops and specialised sessions covering a diverse range of topics, including enhancing partnerships and collaborations with social media influencers and trends, artificial intelligence, as well as the production of AI-enhanced content.

130 shows

A captivating lineup of 130 theatrical performances, directed by artists and performers from 14 countries, will be showcased during the 12-day event.

SIBF 2023 will also premiere the play “Barcode Prison,” the most significant Emirati theatrical production in 2023. The cast includes Emirati actors Marwan Abdullah, Ahmed Mal Allah, Musa Al Bukishi, Bader Hakmi, Haifa Al Ali, and Reem Al Faisal. Directed by Marwan Abdullah Saleh, the play humorously addresses the issue of bullying.

The cultural extravaganza will also host a children’s play by the ALJ Sisters Band, starring Aljoud Albaanon, Wadha Alayoub, and Aljourry Albaanon. The play is about three girls experiencing various situations that teach them valuable lessons and social values.

Cookery Corner

The Cookery Corner this year welcomes 12 international chefs, each showcasing their distinct culinary prowess and cultural nuances through 45 dynamic activities. Participating chefs include Kim Kyeongmin and Kim Joohyun from South Korea, Torie True from the UK, Yohanis Gebreyesus from Ethiopia, Suzanne Husseni from Canada, Sally Butcher from the UK, Irina George from Romania, Marianna Leivaditaki from Greece, Chef Suresh Pilla blending UK and Indian flavours, and Krish Ashok from India.

Thriller Festival

The eagerly awaited second edition of the Thriller Festival is slated from November 8-10, in partnership with Thriller Festival NY. This 3-day event will congregate acclaimed thriller and crime genre writers with their aficionados. This year, the festival will spotlight ten international authors, including bestsellers, to engage with mystery and suspense enthusiasts in the region. Featured authors comprise Felix Francis, Ivy Pochoda, J.D. Barker, Danielle Trussoni, Alex Finlay, Max Seeck, Blake Crouch, C.J. Howe, and Kathleen Antrim.

Library Conference

The 10th iteration of the Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC), in partnership with the American Library Association (ALA), is scheduled from November 7th to 9th. It will assemble over 400 international librarians and specialists representing diverse libraries in the US and around 30 additional countries.

The Sharjah International Book Fair 2023 is open to the public daily at Expo Sharjah from 1 to 12 November 2023, from Monday to Thursday from 9:30 am to 10 pm, and on Friday from 4 pm to 11 pm, and on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 am to 11 pm.