Sharjah International Book Fair, SIBF, has announced that Dr. Muhammad Sabir Arab, Egypt's former minister of culture, will be its 'Cultural Personality of the Year'.

The selection of the Arab luminary for the 36th edition of the fair, which runs from 1st to 11th November at Expo Centre Sharjah, was made in recognition of his outstanding contributions to Arabic cultural and academic life.

A renowned proponent of Arabic culture, Dr. Muhammad Sabir Arab is noted for combining history, literature and intellect in his analysis and critique of Arab issues. He has been instrumental in developing Egypt’s cultural sphere and in enhancing the country’s relations with influential cultural entities, based on his insightful vision that calls to preserve and support Arab heritage when facing contemporary challenges.

"Dr. Arab is an inspiring cultural personality who enjoys a very high regard in the Arabic cultural arena. His career has seen him support intellectuals, encourage researchers and contribute to building a generation of educated people. Committed to engaging with Sharjah’s cultural and intellectual project, he is a regular participant at SIBF," said Ahmed Al Ameri, Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, the organiser of SIBF.

Al Ameri underscored that the selection of Dr. Arab as the cultural personality of the year was in honour of his long and distinguished career, as well as his impressive list of achievements as Egypt's minster of education and leader of its cultural institutions. He said it was also made in recognition of his invaluable contribution in dozens of scientific researches and his publication of books that have enriched the Arabic library and formed an invaluable addition to the cultural milieu.