The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) reaffirmed Sharjah’s reputation as a global cultural hub during its participation in the 38th Guadalajara International Book Fair (FIL) in Mexico. Through strategic meetings and initiatives, SBA highlighted the emirate’s rich cultural heritage and explored opportunities to strengthen global collaborations in publishing and cultural exchange.Led by HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, the delegation engaged with prominent figures, including Marisol Schulz Manaut, General Director of FIL, and José Manuel, Executive Director of the Spanish Publishers Association. Discussions centered on fostering ties between Sharjah and Mexico, formalizing collaborations through an MoU with Madrid’s cultural institutions, and advancing initiatives in publishing, translation, and cultural cooperation.SBA also supported graduates from its Launch Track training program, an initiative under the Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur), by facilitating their participation in FIL. The program provided Emirati publishers and authors with opportunities to explore Latin American literature and encourage translations, further bridging cultural divides.
Promoting Emirati Creativity on the Global Stage
HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri emphasized the importance of FIL in amplifying Arab and Emirati cultural presence among Spanish-speaking audiences. He highlighted Sharjah’s longstanding commitment to fostering cultural dialogue, a vision championed by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
“Our participation builds on Sharjah’s successful tenure as Guest of Honour at FIL 2022, underscoring our dedication to connecting Emirati authors and publishers with the global literary community,” Al Ameri stated. “These efforts align with Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi’s vision to position Sharjah as an international cultural capital and expand the global reach of Emirati literature.”
Mansoor Al Hassani, Director of Publisher Services at SBA, highlighted Sharjah’s unique initiatives, including Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone, which offers unparalleled opportunities for global publishers, and the emirate’s year-round literary events such as the Sharjah International Book Fair and Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival.
Strengthening Publishing Ties with Latin America
The Sharjah Literary Agency (SLA), part of SBA’s delegation, engaged with Latin American publishers to showcase its roster of authors, promote Emirati works in the Spanish-speaking world, and facilitate translations of Latin American literature into Arabic. SBA also spotlighted its prestigious Sharjah Translation Award (Turjuman), reflecting its dedication to celebrating Arab and Islamic heritage globally.With its participation in FIL 2024, SBA continues to position Sharjah as a cultural bridge between nations, fostering meaningful connections within the global publishing and literary sectors.
