Oman takes Guest of Honour role at 2026 Sharjah International Book Fair

Oman is Guest of Honour at the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair in the United Arab Emirates, with writers, publishers and performers taking part in a cultural programme. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the fair is scheduled to run from November 4 to 15, 2026.

Emirates News Agency (WAM) says the Omani delegation includes 50 guests, 41 of them writers and poets. Its programme preview lists 16 discussions and six workshops, as well as 20 performances featuring music and folk arts.

The programme extends beyond books to visual arts, scientific research and maritime heritage. Children and young people also have activities on the schedule, alongside the literary and poetry events.

Maritime history connects the pavilion's design with the opening performance. Oman's Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth says the official pavilion takes inspiration from the country's seafaring past and will present aspects of its history, culture and intellectual heritage.

WAM scheduled the start of Oman's programme for 6 pm on November 4, with an artistic performance exploring links forged by sea and exchanges between cultures. The performance is part of the opening programme for the country's Guest of Honour participation.

The ministry lists six government institutions and four civil society and community institutions among the participants. It also says 17 Omani publishers and bookshops are taking part, bringing the country's book trade into the programme alongside its cultural institutions.

The selection was announced by Sharjah Book Authority chairperson Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, according to WAM's February 19 report. It followed an agreement signed by Omani culture undersecretary Said bin Sultan bin Yarub Al Busaidi and authority CEO Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri.

The National identifies Expo Centre Sharjah as the venue. It reports that Oman's exhibits include traditional clothing and heritage displays, along with a medical compendium by Rashid bin Umayra Al Rustaqi and the manuscript Majmoa Alsyar wa Aljawabat.