Dubai, UAE – The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), themed “It Starts with a Book,” is captivating global audiences with its largest gathering yet, featuring 2,520 publishers from 112 countries and a stellar lineup of 400 authors showcasing their latest works. The book fair, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority, is a global celebration of literature and cultural exchange, with 1,357 activities hosted by 250 distinguished guests from 63 countries.
One of the standout events this year was an enchanting poetry night held at the Intellectual Hall, organized in collaboration with Bazm-e-Urdu, a nonprofit dedicated to promoting Urdu literature. The event featured renowned poets Khalid Masood Khan and Ahmed Saeed. Khalid, a celebrated Urdu and Punjabi poet known for his humor and satire, delighted the audience with excerpts from his latest book, Zamistan Ki Barish. His lively, humorous take on daily life, love, and cultural quirks had the audience in fits of laughter.
Ahmed Saeed, an acclaimed poet celebrated for his soulful, evocative portrayal of rural life and traditional values, complemented the night with poetry that resonated deeply with Punjabi literature enthusiasts. His verses captured the beauty of simple moments, adding depth to the night’s poetic exchange.
The event was hosted by well-known Urdu poet Shahdab Ulfat, who kept the atmosphere lively and engaging. Additionally, UAE-based young author Adnan Munawar marked an important moment for emerging literary talent by launching his latest book before the poetry session, sparking excitement among attendees.
As one of the world’s largest book fairs, SIBF remains a beacon for writers, thinkers, and artists, creating a dynamic space where book lovers from around the world unite to share in the transformative power of literature.