Warsaw — Sharjah has made history as the first Arab nation to serve as Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair, opening a vibrant four-day cultural programme on Thursday.
Led by Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, the delegation includes publishers, writers, artists and heritage performers. The programme features 35 events — including 28 panel discussions, poetry evenings and children’s workshops — held at PGE Narodowy Stadium, the University of Warsaw and other venues.
Under the theme Two Civilisations, One Language of Letters, Sharjah is highlighting literature, translation and cross-cultural dialogue. Sheikha Bodour emphasised that “translation connects worlds” and promotes understanding between civilisations through patience and empathy.
Emirati publishers are using the platform to expand into the European market, where Arabic and Gulf literature remain scarce. Several translation agreements, including with a Polish university, were already initiated on the opening day.
The fair runs until Sunday.
