The 43rd edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2024) concluded on Sunday, leaving a remarkable impression with an astounding 1.82 million visitors from over 200 countries. Taking place from November 6 to 17, the event, themed ‘It Starts with a Book,’ celebrated the significance of literature and knowledge, attracting book enthusiasts, authors, publishers, and intellectuals from around the globe.
This year, the fair featured more than 2,500 exhibitors and publishers from 108 countries, solidifying Sharjah’s reputation as a global center for the publishing industry. The event also maintained its position as the world’s leading book fair in publishing rights transactions for the fourth consecutive year, recording an impressive 3,000 meetings in just 48 hours.
A Global Gathering of Book Enthusiasts
The fair’s visitor profile highlighted a strong international presence, with attendees from various countries, including the UAE, India, Syria, Egypt, and Jordan. These nations were among the top nationalities represented, showcasing the event’s wide appeal across the region and beyond.
In terms of age demographics, the largest group of visitors was aged between 35 and 44, comprising 32.18% of the audience. The next largest group included those aged 25 to 34 years, at 31.67%, followed by young adults aged 18 to 24 at 13.7%. There was also a balanced gender representation, with men making up 53.66% of the visitors and women accounting for 46.36%.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Readers
A standout feature of this year’s edition was the involvement of 135,000 students from schools across the UAE. These young individuals had the chance to explore a diverse array of books, participate in literary workshops, and meet authors, igniting their curiosity and passion for reading.
The Sharjah International Book Fair remains a vital platform for promoting literacy, education, and cultural exchange, with this year’s event serving as a testament to its expanding influence on the global literary landscape. As the fair came to a close, the excitement and inspiration it generated were palpable.
