The intoxicating aroma of freshly printed pages, the texture of coarse paper against the skin, and the exhilaration of diving into countless worlds—all these experiences resonate deeply with book enthusiasts worldwide.
At the Sharjah International Book Fair, people of all ages—from young students to university learners, educators, and curious visitors—gathered in the expansive halls of the Expo Centre Sharjah. They came with the hope of discovering their next favorite book and nurturing their passion for knowledge.
Despite the prevalence of digital publishing today, the allure of a tangible book remains irresistible. The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is a testament to the enduring love for print, with bustling halls and excited crowds eager to meet cherished authors.
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‘A Unique Sensation’
For Khawla Alnuaimi, a teacher from Ras Al Khaimah, there’s nothing quite like the sensation of holding a book. “Sure, you can read online, but it’s special when you physically hold a book,” she shared. “The aroma, the touch, the act of turning pages—it’s a unique experience.”
Khawla Alnuaimi
Alnuaimi curated a reading list a week before the fair, selecting 20 titles for herself and her 18-year-old daughter, who shares her love of reading. She also assisted her students in creating their own lists, featuring authors writing in both English and Arabic.
For eighth-graders Qasayed Shehab and Rayan Faisal, who eagerly awaited in line to have their books signed, reading is a gateway to new adventures.
Faisal confessed that despite spending at least four hours on her phone, she strives to read whenever possible. “I try to read daily or during holidays. It’s crucial as it helps us learn new things,” she mentioned.
L-R. Qasayed Shehab and Rayan Faisal
The duo was excited to attend the Book Fair to get an autograph from one of their beloved authors, Abdullah Al Qomani.
Enhancing Book Accessibility
Beyond the thrill of meeting authors, the fair’s affordability attracts many visitors. Unlike large bookstore chains, SIBF offers books at more reasonable prices.
Naysa P., a first-year Geography student and avid reader, finds books at large chains expensive and out of reach.
“In India, you can find the same book for around Dh5, but at big chains, it’s probably Dh25. It’s pricier,” she explained.
Thankfully, SIBF mandates a 25% discount from retail prices for all participating publishers, making it more affordable than typical bookstore rates.
Despite spending significant time on social media like many teens, Naysa still dedicates time to reading. “Social media and books are worlds apart for me. Even after scrolling, I get weary and turn to a book,” she noted. For her, reading evokes nostalgia, reminiscent of simpler childhood days.
