Sharjah Book Festival goes global: Warsaw names Sharjah Guest of Honour for 2026

Sharjah strengthens its global cultural influence as it becomes Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair 2026, reflecting Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi’s leadership in expanding the emirate’s global literary footprint.

By Imran Malik | MediaBites

Sharjah continues its remarkable rise as a global cultural powerhouse, with the emirate being named Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair 2026, one of Europe’s most prestigious literary events. The announcement, made during the 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), marks another milestone in the emirate’s rapid transformation into a world-leading centre for knowledge exchange — a transformation deeply shaped by the vision of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA).

The selection places Sharjah at the heart of Europe’s cultural spotlight from May 28 to 31, 2026, where it will showcase the depth of Emirati and Arab creativity, literature, and heritage. The agreement was formalised through a signing ceremony between the Sharjah Book Authority and Poland’s History and Culture Foundation, attended by senior cultural leaders from both sides.

Sharjah’s global ascent — the Bodour Al Qasimi effect
Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Sharjah’s cultural footprint has expanded at an unprecedented pace. Her strategic vision has positioned SIBF not just as the largest book fair in the Arab world, but as a global brand that connects continents, diversifies voices, and promotes intercultural dialogue.

Her statement during the announcement reflected this mission: Sharjah’s participation in Warsaw, she said, is a commitment to “deepening dialogue between cultures” and presenting new global audiences with the richness of Arab and Emirati creativity. Her leadership is widely credited for elevating the emirate onto world stages — from Paris to São Paulo, Bologna, Seoul, Madrid, and now Warsaw.

Sharjah’s cultural diplomacy gains momentum
Sharjah’s presence at leading international book fairs has become a defining feature of its cultural diplomacy. Each global appearance strengthens its role as a bridge between civilisations, while spotlighting Arab literature and intellectual thought.

The Warsaw programme — curated by the Sharjah Book Authority — will feature literature showcases, poetry sessions, expert panels, publishing collaborations, workshops, and performances, bringing together voices from the Arab world and Poland. It will also highlight Emirati heritage, storytelling traditions, and contemporary creative industries.

Global recognition of Sharjah’s leadership
SBA CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri said Sharjah’s selection reflects the visionary guidance of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, whose lifelong commitment to books and learning has shaped the emirate’s cultural identity.

Polish officials added that Sharjah’s presence will enrich European audiences and deepen UAE–Poland cultural ties, noting the growing cooperation between the two countries.

A global cultural brand in the making
The Sharjah International Book Fair — once a regional platform — is today seen as a world-class literary hub, thanks to a long-term strategy emphasising inclusivity, diversity, and cultural exchange. Under Sheikha Bodour’s leadership, the fair is expanding its influence beyond the Middle East, shaping global publishing conversations and reinforcing the emirate’s status as a beacon of knowledge and creativity.

As Sharjah prepares for its spotlight moment in Warsaw, the message is clear:
Sharjah is no longer just participating in global book culture — it is helping define it.