Sharjah has announced a permanent headquarters for the Sharjah International Book Fair, with construction starting immediately on a Dh500 million project that strengthens the emirate’s global cultural and literary leadership.
Sharjah has taken a historic step to cement its status as a global capital of literature and knowledge, as His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, announced the allocation of land for a permanent headquarters of the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), alongside a new conferences and exhibitions centre.
The announcement was made during Sheikh Sultan’s radio and television programme Direct Line on the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, marking a major milestone for what is widely regarded as the region’s largest and most influential book festival.
According to the Ruler of Sharjah, the site is strategically located near the Emirates–Al Dhaid–Khorfakkan road network, a vital corridor connecting the emirate’s key urban, cultural and logistical hubs. The land was purchased for Dh146 million, underscoring the emirate’s long-term commitment to culture, publishing and intellectual exchange.
Construction of the permanent venue is set to begin immediately, with the project expected to be completed within two years. The estimated construction cost stands at Dh500 million, reflecting the scale and ambition of the development.
Once completed, the new complex will provide Sharjah International Book Fair with a dedicated, purpose-built home, enhancing its ability to host publishers, authors, cultural leaders and visitors from around the world. The venue is also expected to strengthen Sharjah’s role as a hub for international conferences, exhibitions and literary dialogue.
The announcement comes as Sharjah continues to gain global recognition for its literary leadership, including its recent selection as Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair 2026, reinforcing the emirate’s growing influence on the world’s cultural map.
