The 45th Sharjah International Book Fair opened in the UAE this week with the launch of a major Arabic-language encyclopaedia and the announcement of a new international award among the headline developments of this year’s event.
The 143-volume Comprehensive Arabic Encyclopaedia was unveiled at the opening ceremony, marking a significant milestone in a project involving more than 1,500 specialists worldwide. Covering science, literature, the arts and biographies, the work is expected to be completed in 2027 and published in print and digital formats.
Sharjah Ruler Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi also announced the establishment of the Harun al-Rashid International Award. The annual prize will recognise four individuals for their contributions to science, literature, the arts and biographical studies, with categories encompassing research, intellectual work and creative achievement.
The announcements came as the fair returned to Expo Centre Sharjah for its 45th edition. Running until 15 November, the event brings together 3,212 publishers and exhibitors from 126 countries, including Syria. Organisers estimate that approximately 1.7 million titles are represented, alongside a programme of 1,500 cultural, literary and artistic events.
Oman has been named this year’s guest of honour, with its participation focusing on the country’s history, heritage, literature, poetry and artistic traditions. The wider programme also features 106 guests from 25 countries, with literary discussions, seminars, performances and activities for children scheduled throughout the 11-day event.
The opening also brought recognition for two figures in the literary and publishing worlds. Moroccan researcher and literary critic Said Yaktine was named Cultural Personality of the Year in recognition of his contributions to narrative studies and literary criticism.
Meanwhile, the 2026 Sharjah Translation Award, known as Turjuman, was awarded to Catalan publisher Carowan for its translation of selections from One Thousand and One Nights into Catalan. The award recognises the work of bringing Arabic literary texts to readers in other languages.
This year’s fair takes place under the theme ‘Made of Stories’, with its programme extending beyond the exhibition floor to encompass international publishing, literary exchange and cultural programming. The event remains open to visitors at Expo Centre Sharjah until the 15th of November.
