MBRF showcases rich line-up of literary and intellectual sessions at Sharjah International Book Fair

The Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Knowledge Foundation (MBRF) has launched its participation at the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), unveiling a vibrant program of literary discussions, intellectual dialogues, and creative workshops at the Expo Centre Sharjah.

Running from 5 to 16 November 2025, MBRF’s participation highlights its ongoing commitment to fostering knowledge exchange, promoting cultural dialogue, and strengthening its presence in global intellectual forums. The Foundation’s pavilion serves as a dynamic hub for its knowledge-driven initiatives, publications, and interactive sessions designed to engage readers, writers, and thought leaders alike.

Empowering knowledge and creativity

His Excellency Jamal bin Huwaireb, CEO of MBRF, said:

“We are pleased to be part of SIBF, one of the region’s most significant intellectual gatherings. This reflects our strategy to support knowledge-driven events that enhance global dialogue and sustainable development. By fostering creativity and intellectual exchange, we aim to build a global knowledge ecosystem that promotes progress, resilience, and transformative growth.”

Knowledge Lounge and key literary dialogues

A central feature of MBRF’s participation is the Knowledge Lounge initiative, which offers an immersive program of daily “Coffee... Writer and Book” sessions, creating direct engagement between authors and readers. The initiative also features panel discussions and workshops such as the Book Reviews Writing Workshop, and evening gatherings with leading literary and media personalities.

The Foundation’s program explores a broad spectrum of topics, including:

• “Between Greek and Arabic – The Translator’s Reflection”

• “When Place Speaks and the Story Fragments”

• “Reading Circles and Consciousness”

• “From Crime to Horror”

• “Time and the Evolving Novel”

• “Myth in Modern Literature”

• “Writing in the Face of Erasure”

• “Shifting Voices in Contemporary Narratives”

• “Narrative and History: From Documentation to Interpretation”

Among the highlights is the session “I Am Emirati – A Story of Identity and Belonging”, followed by “Language and Identity in the Era of Globalization”, both exploring the intersection of culture, heritage, and modern identity.

Engagement with the publishing community

MBRF is also conducting strategic meetings with Emirati and Arab publishers, as well as representatives from the Emirates Reprographic Rights Management Association and its regional agents and authors, to discuss collaborative opportunities and future publishing partnerships.

Dubai International Program for Writing (DIPW) sessions

In parallel, the Dubai International Program for Writing (DIPW) is hosting a rich series of sessions designed to support emerging literary talent across genres such as children’s literature, fiction, and literary criticism.

Highlights include:

• “Children’s Books and Bibliotherapy” with author Wafa Al Mezghani

• “Short Story Writing in the AI Age” with Islam Abou Shekier

• “How to Awaken the Reader Within Your Child?” with Maryam Jamal

The program also includes book launch events and panel discussions on the real-world impact of DIPW’s creative writing workshops.

Through its participation at SIBF 2025, MBRF continues to champion creativity, literacy, and cultural innovation, reaffirming its role as a regional leader in advancing knowledge and intellectual development.