SHARJAH: The 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) opened its doors with an awards ceremony, celebrating the winners of the prestigious SIBF Awards and the 7th edition of the Sharjah Translation Award, Turjuman.
The event, held under the theme ‘It Starts with a Book’, witnessed Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), honouring the winners.
In her address, Sheikha Bodour commended the contributions of writers, translators, and publishers, stating, “Honouring exceptional creativity embodies one of Sharjah’s core cultural values. We are committed to fostering every creative contribution, which enriches our cultural landscape and inspires future generations, amplifying the role of knowledge in shaping resilient, interconnected societies.”
She added that these awards encourage cultural achievements, reinforcing Sharjah’s commitment to authorship and publishing: “These awards are designed to inspire further accomplishments, as every success in the cultural sphere is a step towards greater, more far-reaching goals.”
Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, underscored the fair’s dedication to recognising the creators who elevate culture and thought.
“Civilisations, in all their expressions—whether literature, thought, art, science, or architecture—preserve the legacy of creators who have captured their insights for future generations. History demonstrates that nations ascend and flourish through the contributions of their creative minds,” Al Mujaini said, stressing the essential role of authors and publishers.
Turjuman prize
The Sharjah Translation Award, Turjuman, one of the highlights of SIBF 2024, recognised the Turkish translation of The Ring of the Dove by Ibn Hazm Al-Andalusi. Translated by Dr. Mehmet Hakkı Suçin and published by Alpha Publishing, this work received high acclaim for bridging cultural and linguistic divides and contributing to the accessibility of Arabic literary heritage.
Sharjah Awards for Best Emirati Books
The SIBF 2024 Awards included accolades for Emirati literature, honouring local authors across genres:
- Best Emirati Novel: Ahd Al Jerah by Awad bin Hasum Al Darmaki, published by Awraq Publishing & Distribution.
- Best Emirati Academic Book: Al Aghani Al Emirateya: Masarateha Al Oula Wa Masaderha Al Qadeema by Ali Al Abdan, published by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre.
- Best Emirati Creative Literature Book: Qasa’ed Men Wadi Aqbar, a poetry collection by Kareem Maatouq, published by Manshorat Kareem Maatouq.
- Best Emirati First Novel: Gharbana Be Qalam Al Ghorab by Dr. Fatima Al Braiki, published by Sama Publishing, Production and Distribution.
Best Arabic and International Book Awards
The SIBF 2024 Awards also recognised outstanding contributions to Arabic and global literature:
- Best Arabic Novel: The Mosaic by Issa Nasri, published by Meskiliani Publishing.
- Best International Fiction Book: A Stranger in Baghdad by Elizabeth Loudon, published by the American University in Cairo.
- Best International Non-Fiction Book: Love, Exile, Redemption by Siddharth Kak and Lila Kak Bhan, published by Rupa Publications in India.
Publisher Recognition Award
The Publisher Recognition Award for 2024 celebrated excellence in publishing across diverse markets:
- Best Local Publishing House: Dar Ashjar Publishing & Distribution.
- Best Arabic Publishing House: Meskiliani Publishing from Tunisia.
- Best International Publishing House: DC Books from India.
SIBF 2024: Partners & Sponsors
The ceremony concluded with Sheikha Bodour honouring SIBF’s partners and sponsors, whose support made the event possible. Recognised partners included Al Marwan Group, the Turjuman Award sponsor; Etisalat by e&, the official sponsor; the Sharjah Broadcasting Authority, media partner; and Expo Centre Sharjah, strategic partner. Other sponsors included Arada, BEEAH Group, Invest Bank, Abu Dhabi Media, and Skiply, each contributing to SIBF 2024’s success.
This year’s SIBF, running until November 17, highlights Sharjah’s commitment to fostering creativity, promoting literary achievement, and supporting translation efforts that strengthen cultural exchange. The awards mark another milestone in Sharjah’s role as a cultural bridge between the Arab world and the global community, affirming its dedication to intellectual advancement and literary diversity.