The Sharjah Literature Festival 2026 is set to return with its second edition, offering a rich and immersive cultural experience for visitors of all ages. The festival celebrates Emirati literature, creativity, and heritage while providing a platform for future generations to engage with art and ideas.
Organized by the Emirates Publishers Association and the Sharjah Book Authority, this year’s edition runs under the theme ‘A Community Woven by Tales’, reflecting the festival’s mission to highlight Emirati literature and strengthen the cultural fabric of the region. The week-long event will be hosted at University City Hall Square, Sharjah, providing a vibrant hub for literary and cultural exploration.
Celebrating Emirati Literature and Creativity
The festival plays a crucial role in promoting Emirati literary production, featuring a book fair with 42 local publishing houses. These publishers will present a wide range of titles for all age groups, offering visitors a chance to explore the diversity of local storytelling.
In addition to the literary focus, the festival showcases innovative products and crafts that merge traditional Emirati techniques with modern design. Local entrepreneurs will display unique items such as crochet art, personalized gifts, decorative ornaments, scented candles inspired by ancestral perfumes, and accessories that reflect the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.
Culture and Entertainment for All
The festival’s main stage promises an engaging mix of culture, heritage, and entertainment. Visitors can participate in panel discussions covering diverse topics, including:
- Ancient Civilizations in Mleiha
- The Rules of Writing for Children
- Electronic Games and Digital Creativity
- Art, Music, and Sports in Society
- Street Photography and Astrophotography
- The Table That Connects Us
These sessions offer insightful perspectives and spark meaningful conversations, connecting the community through literature and shared cultural experiences.
Hands-On Workshops and Creative Experiences
A highlight of the Sharjah Literature Festival 2026 is its series of interactive workshops, designed to immerse participants in artistic expression. Workshops include:
- Visual Art with Magdy El Kafrawy
- Artificial Intelligence in Art with Ahmed Ba Fadhl
- Comic Character Creation with Aysha Al Hamrani
- Arabic Calligraphy with Abdullah Al Astad
- Bookmark Design with Hadeel Jniyah
- Content Creation and Video Editing with Saif Salem
- Stamp Making with Jasim Al Naqbi
Additionally, workshops covering candle making, photography, culinary arts, and other creative disciplines allow attendees to develop new skills while enjoying a hands-on cultural experience.
Experiences for Every Visitor
The festival’s second edition continues its commitment to offering inclusive experiences for both young and old. By combining literature, art, and entertainment, the Sharjah Literature Festival 2026 ensures every visitor can engage in meaningful and memorable cultural moments.
Registration for events and workshops is available via the official festival website or through its social media channels, making it easy for attendees to plan their visit and participate in activities of interest.
A Platform for Creativity and Cultural Growth
Beyond entertainment, the festival serves as a platform for creative entrepreneurs and publishers to showcase their work, fostering growth in Sharjah’s cultural and creative industries. By connecting local talent with a wider audience, the festival strengthens the UAE’s position as a regional hub for thought, culture, and innovation.
Through its extensive program, the Sharjah Literature Festival 2026 transforms literature into a bridge that connects the past, present, and future, ensuring the cultural legacy of the UAE continues to inspire generations to come.
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