The 42nd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2023) has concluded, achieving a significant milestone by retaining its title as the world's largest book fair for the third consecutive year. The event showcased an impressive collection of over 15 million books, spanning diverse fields of knowledge and creativity. With the participation of 2,033 publishers from 109 countries, SIBF 2023 marked a remarkable year of achievements, boasting the highest number of participating countries in its history. The fair, themed 'We Speak Books,' engaged visitors from 109 countries, attracting book enthusiasts, students, academics, intellectuals, and professionals in the creative industries. South Korea took center stage as the Guest of Honour, drawing substantial attention with its pavilion witnessing a remarkable influx of visitors. Renowned figures such as Iraqi superstar Kadim Al Sahir, author and comedian Bassem Youssef, Nobel laureate Wole Soyinka, Indian actress Kareena Kapoor, American astronaut Sunitha Williams, and Canadian journalist Malcolm Gladwell graced the event, sharing their experiences and launching their latest works. Ibrahim Al-Koni, celebrated as the 'Cultural Personality of the Year,' joined the Sharjah Literary Agency (SLA), becoming its exclusive literary representative globally. SIBF 2023 showcased over 1,700 cultural and artistic activities, emphasizing cultural relations between Sharjah and Portugal through an exhibition titled "The Portuguese in the Gulf, 1507-1650: An Interlinked History." The fair received a generous AED 4.5 million donation from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi to equip Sharjah's public libraries with the latest releases. In support of publishers, the Sharjah Publishing City (SPC) Free Zone announced a comprehensive package offering financial incentives of up to AED 3 million, along with a 90% exemption on licensing and business establishment fees. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of Sharjah Book Authority, expressed pride in the global reputation earned by SIBF and its contribution to showcasing Emirati and Arab culture to the world. The successful conclusion of SIBF 2023 reinforces Sharjah's role as a hub of knowledge and creativity, fulfilling the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. The event hosted 2,033 publishers, presented over 1.5 million titles, and organized 1,700 events led by 215 guests from 69 countries, including 127 prominent Arab and international writers and artists from 33 countries.
