Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA) is participating in the 36th Sharjah International Book Fair which started on November 1 and will run till November 11 at Sharjah Expo Center. The Sharjah International Book Fair is the fourth largest book fair in the world, attracted 2.6 million visitors last year from the region and around the world.
During the event this year, the Authority exhibits in a pavilion showcasing the sophisticated design of Sharjah’s cultural and tourism offerings, where SCTDA launched three books; ‘Sharjah’s Architectural Splendour’, which gives prominence to the landmarks of Sharjah with impressive images and information on these architectural highlights in Arabic and English; ‘Sharjah Visitor’s Guide’ – a mini guide for tourists detailing all of Sharjah’s landmarks, attractions and events with up-to-date maps and information in both Arabic and English, and the ‘Sharjah Destination Toolkit’ a comprehensive overview of Sharjah in English geared towards tourism industry professionals.
H.E. Khalid Jasim Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority, commented that the Authority is keen to participate in the Sharjah International Book Fair, which has become one of the largest cultural exhibitions in the region and enhances the emirate’s status as a leading destination for organizing and establishing major international enriching events.
His Excellency also noted that with the launch of three new books, the Authority substantiates its dedication to providing the best information and services to the visitors of the Emirate as well as to the travel and tourism operators that organize trips and packages to Sharjah. The books disseminate information and provide images of the Emirate’s most prominent architectural, cultural and tourist attractions.
The Chairman added that the exhibition is an ideal opportunity to promote the events and festivals organized by the Authority during the upcoming period, notably the U.I.M. F1H2O World Championship 2017 – Sharjah Grand Prix 2017 and the UIM-ABP Aquabike World Championship 2017 taking place in December as well as the prominent Sharjah Light Festival in February.
Al Midfa pointed out that SCTDA coordinated with hotel establishments the arrangements to welcome the delegations of participants and visitors prior to the launch of the exhibition to ensure they are provided with the best services and facilities during their stay in the Emirate.
Themed ‘A World Inside My Book,’ the forthcoming 36th edition of SIBF will see the participation of 1,650 publishing houses from 60 countries. More than 1.5 million titles will be on display throughout the 11-day celebration of literature, knowledge and culture. Spread across 14,625 square meters, this year’s edition will feature 393 celebrated guests from 48 countries who will take part in more than 2,600 events.
The Sharjah International Book Fair is the largest of its kind in the Middle East, a registered member of a number of international organizations such as the Afro-Asian Books Council and the Arab Publishers Association and is recognized by the International Publishers Association. It is a unique annual opportunity for publishers, distributors, authors and senior organizers of international exhibitions to come together and exchange information and experiences.