Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is back for its 44th edition, running from November 5 to 16, 2025, at Expo Centre Sharjah. This year, the fair will explore the theme “Between You and a Book,” diving into the powerful connection between readers and the stories they discover.
Thousands of authors, publishers, translators, and readers from all over the world will come to the emirate in November for this event. Expect engaging talks, interactive experiences, and enriching moments with top international thinkers and creators.
New Activities at Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2025
While the fair is always packed with engaging activities like cultural panels and kids’ workshops, this year’s new additions promise to take things to the next level. Get ready to dive into two creative and interactive experiences that blend literature, fun, and a little bit of mystery.
First up, Poetry pharmacy is an innovative concept that’s sure to catch your attention. Imagine there’s a pharmacy that prescribes verses based on your current mood. If you’re feeling down, you can take a “pill” (which is actually a poem) designed to lift your spirits. If you’re in a joyful mood, you’ll receive verses that match that energy. This therapeutic approach from UK is designed to show that literature is about healing, comfort, and connection.
The second exciting new activity at SIBF 2025 is an interactive play that puts the audience in the role of detectives. Instead of just sitting back and watching, visitors will step into the action as they read through a book, follow clues, and solve a mystery. This immersive experience brings literature to life, turning the audience into an active participant in the narrative.
Guest of Honour at Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) 2025
Greece has been chosen as the official Guest of Honour at SIBF 2025, bringing a vibrant cultural program that includes interactive workshops, performances, book signings, and other events. This is a fantastic opportunity to experience Greece’s rich heritage and its contributions to the world of literature.
How to Get to Sharjah International Book Fair 2025: Public Transport Options from Dubai and Ajman
Visitors of SIBF 2025 won’t have to worry about reaching Expo Centre Sharjah during the Fair. The emirate has introduced new marine and bus routes and increased service frequency.
Coming from Dubai? You can travel by sea or by bus.
Take the FR5 marine route from Al Ghubaiba Marine Station to Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station. From there, free traditional boats will operate between Sharjah Aquarium, Al Qasba, and Expo Centre Sharjah throughout the fair’s opening hours.
Free shuttle buses from Al Rashidiya Bus Station will operate directly to Expo Centre Sharjah at 9 AM, 1 PM, and 5 PM, with return services at 12 PM, 4 PM, and 9 PM.
Coming from Ajman? You can travel by bus.
A daily shuttle service will take you from City Centre Ajman to Expo Centre Sharjah, with departures at 9 AM, 1 PM, and 5 PM, and return trips at 12 PM, 4 PM, and 9 PM. It will also be free.
If you’re coming to SIBF 2025 during the first weekend, make sure to check Thriller Festival, a four-day celebration of crime, suspense, and storytelling brilliance. You can meet authors, screenwriters, and experts from around the world and even participate in an interactive mystery play.
Stay tuned for updates on all the must-visit happenings in Sharjah!
