Sharjah Book Fair tickets 2025: The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2025 is set to mesmerize book lovers, students, authors, and literary enthusiasts from around the world. Hosted at Expo Centre Sharjah, this iconic event will take place from November 5 to 16, 2025. With the theme “Between You and a Book”, SIBF 2025 promises an unforgettable experience of literature, culture, and intellectual exploration.
Event Details
- Dates: November 5 – 16, 2025
- Venue: Expo Centre Sharjah, UAE
- Visiting Hours:
- Sunday–Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Fridays: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
- Guest of Honour: Greece
- Cultural Personality of the Year: Mohamed Salmawy (Egyptian Writer & Playwright)
- Expected Visitors: Over 2 million attendees from 112 countries
Sharjah Book Fair has long been recognized as a global hub for literature, attracting publishers, authors, and readers across generations. The fair highlights intellectual diversity and offers interactive experiences for both young and adult visitors.
Sharjah Book Fair tickets 2025
Tickets & Entry Information
- General Entry: Free of charge
- Workshops, Panels & Special Events: Paid, depending on the event; tickets will be available on the official SIBF website
- Transportation Services: Free shuttle buses and boat transfers provided by Sharjah Book Authority
Tips for Visitors:
- Pre-book tickets for workshops and exclusive events
- Arrive early to avoid peak crowd hours
- Carry a valid ID for registration at special events
Read more: Trade Fair 2025 Tickets: Book Entry Passes for Major Expos & Events
Highlights & Attractions
Literary Events & Workshops
SIBF 2025 will host over 1,200 events, including:
- Interactive author sessions
- Writing workshops for aspiring writers
- Panel discussions on literature, culture, and technology
Special Thematic Festivals
- Thriller Festival (Nov 8–11): Featuring international authors specializing in crime and psychological thrillers
- Pop-Up Academy: Interactive sessions on media, arts, and technology
International Pavilions
- Greece, as the Guest of Honour, will showcase 600 titles from 58 publishers
- Pavilions from over 66 countries highlighting literature and cultural heritage
Unique Experiences
- Poetry Pharmacy: Personalized poetry sessions for visitors
- Children’s Activities: Engaging storytelling, workshops, and interactive games for young readers
Featured Authors & Guests
SIBF 2025 will host several renowned authors and personalities:
- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie (Nigeria)
- Hollywood celebrity guest appearances
- International and regional literary icons presenting their latest works
These appearances provide an opportunity to interact with writers, attend book signings, and gain insights into global literature.
Exhibitors & Publishing Industry Events
- Over 2,200 exhibitors showcasing more than 1.3 million book titles
- Publishers Conference (Nov 2–4, 2025): Networking for publishing professionals
- Sharjah International Library Conference (SILC, Nov 8–10, 2025): Discussions on libraries, literature, and literacy development
Venue
Nearby Attractions
| Attraction | Distance from Expo Centre | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Sharjah Aquarium | 5 km | Marine life exhibits, family-friendly |
| Al Noor Island | 6 km | Art installations, butterfly garden |
| Sharjah Art Museum | 7 km | Contemporary and classical art exhibits |
| Mleiha Archaeological Centre | 45 km | Ancient history and desert safari experiences |
| Al Majaz Waterfront | 6 km | Musical fountain, leisure park, restaurants |
Sharjah Book Fair 2025 Schedule and Event
| Date | Time | Event / Activity | Location / Pavilion | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 5, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM | Opening Ceremony | Main Stage | Welcoming speeches, ribbon cutting |
| Nov 5, 2025 | 11:30 AM – 1:00 PM | International Author Talk | Greece Pavilion | Guest of Honour: Greek author insights |
| Nov 5, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Children’s Storytelling | Kids Zone | Ages 5–12, interactive sessions |
| Nov 6, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Poetry Pharmacy | Literary Hall | Personalized poetry sessions for visitors |
| Nov 6, 2025 | 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM | Workshop: Creative Writing | Workshop Hall A | Tickets required |
| Nov 7, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Panel Discussion: Future of Publishing | Main Stage | Industry experts from 10 countries |
| Nov 8, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thriller Festival Day 1 | Event Hall B | International crime & psychological thriller authors |
| Nov 9, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thriller Festival Day 2 | Event Hall B | Book signings and panel discussions |
| Nov 10, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thriller Festival Day 3 | Event Hall B | Special author meet & greet |
| Nov 11, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM | Thriller Festival Day 4 | Event Hall B | Interactive mystery solving sessions for kids |
| Nov 12, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Pop-Up Academy | Tech & Media Zone | Workshops on digital arts, social media |
| Nov 12, 2025 | 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Guest Lecture: Literature & Peace | Main Stage | Multicultural dialogue |
| Nov 13, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Storytelling for Teens | Kids Zone | Ages 13–18, creative engagement |
| Nov 14, 2025 | 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM | Cooking Corner: International Chefs | Food & Culture Pavilion | Demonstration and tasting |
| Nov 15, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | Workshop: Writing Fanfiction | Workshop Hall A | Tickets required |
| Nov 16, 2025 | 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | Closing Ceremony | Main Stage | Awards, highlights, farewell |
Notes:
- All times are local (Sharjah, UAE).
- Some workshops and special events require pre-booked tickets.
- Children’s and teen activities are designed to encourage engagement with literature and creative thinking.
Read more: Big Ticket November 2025: Win AED 25 Million, Luxury Getaways, and F1 Abu Dhabi Experiences
Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s:
- Arrive early to explore exhibitions comfortably
- Carry water and light snacks
- Respect authors and speakers during sessions
- Participate in interactive workshops
Don’ts:
- Avoid bringing large bags or luggage
- Don’t disturb children or other visitors in reading areas
- Smoking and outside food are prohibited inside the venue
Future plans for the Sharjah Book Fair 2025
| Aspect | Details / Use | Future Plan (2026 & Beyond) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Promote reading, literacy, and cultural exchange | Expand international participation, include more digital & interactive sessions |
| Audience | Book lovers, students, authors, publishers, families | Increase engagement with youth and schools, introduce online streaming of events |
| Workshops & Events | Author talks, creative writing, storytelling, poetry, culinary demos | Add virtual workshops, fanfiction contests, and global author collaborations |
| Industry Networking | Publishers, librarians, literary professionals | Introduce international publishing expos, networking lounges, and B2B sessions |
| Children & Teens | Storytelling, interactive sessions, reading programs | Expand children’s zone, gamified reading challenges, teen writing competitions |
| Technology & Media | Pop-Up Academy, podcasts, digital arts | Integrate AR/VR experiences, live streaming, e-book launches, and AI-based interactive storytelling |
| Cultural Exchange | Guest of Honour countries, thematic pavilions | Invite more nations, highlight multicultural literature, and include regional language promotion |
FAQs
1. When is the Sharjah Book Fair 2025 held?
The 44th edition of the fair takes place from November 5 to 16, 2025 at the Expo Centre Sharjah.
2. What are the opening hours?
- Sunday–Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Thursday–Saturday: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Fridays: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
3. Is there an entry fee?
General entry to the main exhibition is free. Some workshops, panel discussions, or special performances may require separate tickets.
4. How can I buy tickets for workshops or special events?
Tickets for specific events can be purchased via the official SIBF website or through authorized booking partners closer to the event dates.
5. Who is the Guest of Honour in 2025?
The Guest of Honour country is Greece, showcasing its literature, language, and culture through dedicated pavilions and events.
6. Are there activities for children?
Yes! The fair includes storytelling sessions, creative workshops, and interactive activities for children and teens.
7. Are there transportation services to the venue?
The Sharjah Book Authority provides free shuttle buses and boat transfers to the Expo Centre Sharjah during the fair.
8. Can I attend the fair online?
Some sessions, workshops, and panel discussions may be available via live streaming or digital participation. Check the official website for details.
9. How many exhibitors participate?
Over 2,000 exhibitors from more than 110 countries are expected, covering books in multiple languages and genres.
10. What is the theme of SIBF 2025?
The theme for this year is “Between You and a Book”, emphasizing the connection between readers and literature.
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