Creative Emirati literature, its strong historical and oral roots, and unique writing traditions enjoyed a prolific discussion space on the side-lines of the recently concluded 22nd Muscat International Book Fair (MIBF) in Oman.    

Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), through its participation at the fair, organised a panel discussion featuring talented Emirati authors Amna Al Shamsi and Sami Al Khalifi, who used their research and their works to explore the development of Emirati narrative, highlighting the nation’s most influential writers. The panel was moderated by Faraj Al Dhufairi.    

Titled ‘Story and Novel Narrative in UAE’, the session explored the role cultural developments in the Arab world, and international creative experiences played in the development of short story and novel narratives in UAE. It also pointed out renowned Emirati novelists who enriched Arabic literature.

“Sharjah Book Authority’s participation at MIBF is in-line with its mission to engage with major Arabic and international publishing events, which act as pivotal meeting points for Arab and international intellectuals, authors and publishers. SBA has been working relentlessly to engage the world with UAE’s local creative narrative. International platforms such as these act as springboards in our endeavour to create an international outreach, understanding and appreciation of Emirati literature among the wider Arab and international audiences,” said Salim Omar Salim, Director of Sales and Marketing at SBA.

The MIBF is a key literary, cultural and intellectual platform that strengthens cultural links and communication between all segments of society in the field of culture, literature and science, and provides an ideal environment for them to meet. The 22nd edition saw the participation of 750 publishers hailing from 28 countries. 

Established in 2014, Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) is dedicated to encouraging investment in creative industries and offering a platform for the exchange of knowledge and ideas between people from different countries and cultures. It is entrusted with emphasising the significant role of writers and their influence in spreading awareness of technological advancement and the availability of various sources of knowledge. SBA aims to attract relevant bodies and figures operating in the cultural sector in general, and the publishing, printing and translation of books in particular, with a special focus on literature for children.