Sharjah captivated audiences as the Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. The Emirate showcased its leadership in Arab culture, literature, and cross-cultural dialogue. The opening ceremony took place in the presence of His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid and Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA). Their presence reflected the importance of Sharjah’s cultural mission and its close relationship with the Kingdom of Morocco.
Furthermore, Sheikha Bodour joined Prince Moulay Rachid and Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, in inaugurating the event. The fair, hosted at the OLM Souissi venue in Rabat, will continue until April 27. After the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Sheikha Bodour led a tour of Sharjah’s Guest of Honour pavilion, accompanied by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA. Notable attendees included Sheikh Fahim Al Qasimi, Chairperson of Sharjah’s Department of Government Relations, and Latifa Mouftakir, Director of the book fair. Delegations from both countries participated, highlighting a spirit of collaboration and cultural unity.
During the pavilion tour, guests explored exhibitions and educational programs curated by Sharjah’s top cultural and literary institutions. These included works from leading Emirati publishers, heritage projects, and creative content inspired by local traditions. The pavilion brings together 18 cultural and academic organisations from across the Emirate. This impressive participation reflects Sharjah’s strong investment in education, heritage, and global cultural outreach.
Later in the evening, prominent literary figures from Morocco and the UAE gathered to celebrate Sharjah’s Guest of Honour status. The gathering highlighted the growing cultural ties between the two nations. As head of the Sharjah delegation, Sheikha Bodour delivered a keynote speech. She said, “I bring warm greetings and deep appreciation from His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah, to His Majesty King Mohammed VI and all fair participants.” She praised Morocco’s contributions to global literature and intellectual development.
Moreover, Sheikha Bodour emphasized the historical bond between the UAE and Morocco. She said, “Our relationship with Morocco is built on centuries of cultural and intellectual exchange.” Referring to the travels of Ibn Battuta, who recorded the shared values of the Mashreq and Maghreb. She concluded by noting that these values still connect both regions and continue to inspire future generations.
