In a remarkable display of cultural diplomacy, Sharjah was honoured as the Guest of Honour at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair. This prestigious event, held from April 18 to 27, 2025, at the OLM Souissi venue in Rabat, Morocco, underscores the deep cultural and intellectual connections between the UAE and Morocco. The fair, one of the most significant literary events in the Arab world, has become an international stage for celebrating literature, culture, and creativity.
Sharjah’s selection as the Guest of Honour is a testament to the emirate’s unwavering commitment to promoting Arab culture, literature, and knowledge-sharing globally. It also highlights Sharjah’s growing role as a key player in the cultural diplomacy of the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
A Grand Inauguration
The event was marked by a grand inauguration ceremony attended by prominent figures, including Prince Moulay Rachid of Morocco, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, the Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication. Their presence signified the importance of this cultural exchange, bringing together influential personalities from both nations to strengthen cultural ties.
The opening ceremony set the tone for what would be a week of celebration, reflection, and collaboration. The VIPs, including Sheikha Bodour and Prince Moulay Rachid, led a guided tour of the Sharjah Guest of Honour pavilion, accompanied by Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, the CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. The pavilion featured exhibits from 18 key cultural and academic institutions from Sharjah, presenting the emirate’s vibrant cultural heritage and showcasing its contributions to the literary and artistic world. Visitors could explore displays that highlighted Sharjah’s vision of fostering intellectual dialogue and creativity in the Arab world.
Sharjah’s Cultural Showcase
As the Guest of Honour, Sharjah presented a curated selection of its finest cultural achievements. The pavilion was a multi-faceted celebration of Arab culture, featuring works from Emirati publishing houses, educational institutions, and heritage-inspired creative content. Through this display, Sharjah not only showcased its literary works but also underscored its commitment to fostering an inclusive and innovative cultural environment that nurtures creativity in all its forms.
One of the standout features of Sharjah’s participation was the integration of modern technological advancements in the publishing world. Digital platforms, interactive discussions, and live readings were featured, reflecting the city’s ongoing evolution as a hub of intellectual exchange. These activities were designed to promote dialogue between local, regional, and international visitors, providing a space for book lovers and scholars to connect with authors, publishers, and cultural experts.
Beyond the books, Sharjah’s pavilion also included a series of events aimed at enhancing cultural cooperation between Morocco and the UAE. There were literary discussions, workshops, and panel sessions where influential voices from the worlds of literature, culture, and academia came together to discuss the role of the Arab world in global intellectual discourse. Sharjah’s presence at the fair sent a clear message: the UAE is firmly committed to supporting the global spread of Arab literary and cultural traditions.
A Night at Chellah: Bridging Cultures
In addition to the fair, Sharjah hosted a gala dinner in the evening at Chellah, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in Rabat. Chellah is an archaeological site steeped in history, with ruins dating back to the Roman and Islamic periods. This historic venue provided the perfect backdrop for an evening that celebrated the rich cultural heritage of both Morocco and the UAE. The dinner was attended by leading cultural figures, dignitaries, and intellectuals from both countries, reinforcing the cultural and historical ties that have long existed between the UAE and Morocco.
During the gala, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi delivered a heartfelt keynote address in which she expressed appreciation for Morocco’s hospitality and the importance of the cultural bond between the two countries. She conveyed greetings from Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to King Mohammed VI of Morocco. The speech emphasized the shared values and rich heritage that have historically united the Arab world, particularly the Mashreq and Maghreb regions.
The evening at Chellah was not just about celebrating the present but also reflecting on the enduring legacy of intellectual exchange between the two nations. Sheikha Bodour referenced the travels of the renowned scholar Ibn Battuta, whose explorations took him from the UAE to Morocco and beyond. This connection highlighted the long history of mutual respect and intellectual curiosity that has defined the relationship between the Arab world and beyond.
Building Stronger Cultural Ties
The Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, also addressed the audience during the gala, highlighting the importance of Sharjah’s participation in the fair as a symbol of the growing cultural ties between Morocco and the UAE. Bensaid noted that the fair was held under the royal patronage of King Mohammed VI of Morocco, reflecting the Moroccan government’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and intellectual dialogue on a global scale.
By being named the Guest of Honour, Sharjah’s role extended beyond simply presenting books and literary works. It was about reinforcing the shared cultural values that bind the Arab world together, showcasing the richness of Arab intellectual and artistic traditions. As a leading cultural capital of the Arab world, Sharjah has always emphasized the importance of cultural diplomacy and global collaboration. Its presence at the Rabat International Book Fair was a clear demonstration of this vision.
The Future of Arab Cultural Diplomacy
Sharjah’s participation in the Rabat International Publishing and Book Fair signals the growing influence of the UAE in global cultural diplomacy. The emirate’s strong cultural presence, coupled with its strategic investments in the arts and literature, positions it as a key player in shaping global conversations about culture, knowledge, and creativity. The success of Sharjah’s involvement in the fair also reflects the broader UAE initiative to position the Arab world at the center of global intellectual discourse.
This event is not only an important cultural moment for Sharjah but also sets the stage for future collaborations between the UAE and Morocco. It paves the way for greater partnerships in the fields of literature, art, education, and cultural exchange. The deepening of these relationships will contribute to an ongoing dialogue that will continue to shape the cultural landscape of the Arab world and beyond.
Conclusion
As the Rabat International Book Fair continues until April 27, 2025, Sharjah’s presence as the Guest of Honour has already left an indelible mark on the cultural landscape. This event has not only showcased Sharjah’s vibrant cultural offerings but also reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening the bonds between the UAE and Morocco. The fair serves as a testament to the power of books, culture, and collaboration in fostering understanding and respect across borders.
Sharjah’s participation is a shining example of how cultural diplomacy can enhance global relationships, promote intellectual exchange, and bring communities together. It is a reminder that the sharing of knowledge, ideas, and creativity knows no boundaries and that, through such efforts, cultures can unite in a shared commitment to building a better and more connected world.
As the week unfolds, visitors will continue to engage with the literary and cultural treasures that Sharjah has brought to Rabat, ensuring that the emirate’s legacy as a global cultural leader is further solidified. The future looks bright for Sharjah as it continues to inspire, educate, and engage on the international stage.
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