Sharjah Elevates UAE Literature on Global Stage

Sharjah elevated UAE literature to an international level at the Rio International Book Fair

Sharjah showcased an impressive cultural presence at the 2025 Rio International Book Fair, Brazil's largest literary event, attended by over 600,000 visitors. Known as the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates, the emirate aims to bring the literature and values of the Emirates closer to the cultural communities of Latin America while further strengthening its global role in the publishing industry.

Emirati literature in Portuguese translation

The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) pavilion featured literary works from authors in the Emirates, translated into Portuguese. This initiative by the SBA aimed to present Emirati literature to new audiences and build cultural bridges between the Middle East and South America. Notably, the event aligns with Rio de Janeiro holding the UNESCO title of 'World Book Capital' in 2025, a title previously held by Sharjah in 2019, fostering a cultural dialogue between the two cities.

Past and future of Arab literature

An insightful panel discussion titled 'The Heritage of Arab Literature and Sharjah's New Literary Movement' was held at the book fair, where Emirati authors translated into Portuguese shared their perspectives on the literary development in the region. Participants emphasized Sharjah's commitment to supporting literature and creative freedom and the importance of giving a platform to the new voices of young generations.

Publications, initiatives, and cultural collaboration

The SBA highlighted its key initiatives, including the Sharjah International Book Fair, the Sharjah Children's Reading Festival, and the Sharjah Publishing City Free Zone. In addition, the Onshur sustainability fund and the Sharjah Literary Agency were featured, aiming to bring the works of Arab authors to international readers.

The PublisHer initiative, which enhances the role of women in the publishing sector, was prominently featured. This initiative offered opportunities for several female authors and publishers to present their work, emphasizing the importance of gender balance in the literary world.

Sharjah as a cultural bridge-builder

Sharjah's presence at the Rio event clearly reflects its aspiration for the UAE to be a global player not only economically but culturally as well. The emirate seeks to showcase its national identity and values to the world through the power of books and culture.

The Rio Book Fair became not just an exhibition but a site of dialogue where the Middle East and Latin America were brought closer through the universal language of literature. Sharjah's involvement exemplifies how culture can be a key element in development and international collaboration.

(Source of the article: Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) press release.)