Warsaw: Sharjah concluded a landmark participation as the first Arab Guest of Honour in the history of the Warsaw International Book Fair, following four days of cultural programming that brought Emirati and Arab literature, heritage and the arts to audiences across the Polish capital.
According to Emirates News Agency, the participation reflected the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, whose cultural project has positioned the emirate as a global centre for culture and a platform for presenting Emirati and Arab culture to international audiences. From the fairgrounds at Warsaw's National Stadium to various city venues, Sharjah's presence fostered dialogue between Emirati and Polish culture.
The programme featured 35 cultural events and brought together 36 writers, poets, artists and creatives from the UAE and Poland, alongside 21 cultural and knowledge institutions, leaving an impression on audiences and visitors throughout the fair. Led by Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), the emirate's cultural delegation reflected international recognition of Sharjah's contribution to the global cultural landscape.
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, emphasized that Sharjah's presence at the fair reflects the vision of the Ruler of Sharjah, who established culture as a cornerstone of development and understanding between communities. He noted the strong interest among Polish audiences in Emirati and Arab literature, heritage, arts, and knowledge experiences brought to Warsaw.
Jacek Oryl, Director of the Warsaw International Book Fair, stated that Sharjah's participation as Guest of Honour was exceptional and helped make this year's edition one of the most enriching for Polish audiences and visitors. He highlighted that Sharjah's programme gave Polish audiences a deeper understanding of Emirati and Arab culture, while opening new avenues for cultural dialogue and exchange.
Throughout the fair, Sharjah presented a cultural programme that extended beyond the exhibition halls to universities, cultural institutions and public venues across Warsaw. Discussions exploring fiction, history, memory, and the role of storytelling demonstrated how stories rooted in local experiences can resonate across cultures.
Sharjah's engagement also reached academic audiences through a programme at the University of Warsaw, offering insight into contemporary Emirati culture. The arts formed another important pillar of the programme, with an exhibition that brought together Emirati and Polish artists in a cross-cultural dialogue inspired by poetry.
Performances by the Sharjah National Band introduced audiences across Warsaw to Emirati music and performing arts, while demonstrations of Talli embroidery and traditional crafts offered visitors a glimpse into the UAE's cultural traditions. The programme also facilitated professional exchange within the publishing sector, with collaboration in translation and publishing partnerships.
The pavilion attracted strong visitor interest throughout the fair, with 280 books sold from the titles on display, reflecting growing engagement with Emirati culture, Arab literature and the UAE's wider knowledge and creative ecosystem.