The first edition of the Sharjah Literature Festival, a unique cultural event, has come to a close, illuminating the emirate's literary scene under the slogan 'Emirati stories inspire the future'. Over a period of 5 days, Sharjah was a vibrant hub of words and literature, where writers, intellectuals, publishers, and the public came together in one space to celebrate local literary achievements and Emirati cultural heritage. The festival, organized by the Sharjah Book Authority and the Emirates Publishers Association, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and the guidance of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, President of the Sharjah Book Authority and Honorary President of the Emirates Publishers Association, has opened a new window on Emirati literature, carrying ambitious goals to shed light on the achievements of Emirati writers and publishers, and to promote the UAE as a leading center for literature and culture. The event offered a unique experience for its visitors through its diverse activities, which embodied the spirit of Emirati cultural identity. The Sharjah Literature Festival brought together 29 guests and 12 moderators from the most prominent figures in literature, thought, art, and media in the UAE, who transformed the University City Hall in Sharjah into a stage for inspiring activities, including 20 sessions and dialogue forums, which highlighted Emirati literary achievements in the present and past, and discussed their future directions and the role of literature in nurturing national and creative values. In addition to 9 inspiring workshops for children and adults, which took them to the world of space, Arabic calligraphy, scented candle-making, storytelling, and art. The event also enriched the experience of its visitors with a book exhibition, showcasing the latest releases of 41 Emirati publishers, alongside 25 musical performances, including a piano concert with Eman Al Hashemi, the first Emirati composer, as well as unique shopping experiences, offered by 5 participating stores, and the opportunity to taste the wonderful flavors of 10 diverse restaurants. Rashid Al Kous, Executive Director of the Emirates Publishers Association, expressed his pride in this event, saying: 'The first edition of the festival has exceeded our expectations, reflecting the local community's passion for literature and culture. The activities were a celebration of Emirati cultural identity and the literary richness that Emirati writers have achieved over the generations. We are proud to have Sharjah as the starting point for this cultural event, which we aspire to become a global literary platform in the future.' He also thanked the Sharjah Book Authority, praising its leading role in promoting Sharjah as the capital of culture and literature, and the University City in Sharjah, the strategic partner of the event, for their support and efforts, which had a significant impact on the success of the first edition of the festival.
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