Rabat: In recognition of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah’s cultural project, and Sharjah’s global status as a capital of knowledge, the Kingdom of Morocco has named the emirate as the official Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF). Organised by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, RIBF 2025 will take place from 17th to 27th April at the iconic OLM Souissi.
According to Emirates News Agency, the announcement was made during a ceremony at which Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing at the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Latifa Moftaqir, General Coordinator of RIBF and Director of the Moroccan Archives Foundation, signed the agreement. This marks a significant step in enhancing Arab cultural exchange and deepening ties between intellectuals and literary figures from the UAE and Morocco. As the Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present a cultural agenda highlighting the UAE’s contemporary and historical literary and artistic achievements. The programme will celebrate the richness of Emirati heritage and the cultural values it shares with Morocco, fostering greater mutual understanding and collaboration.
Commenting on the announcement, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, emphasized culture as a channel for nations and societies to connect, fostering dialogue and understanding. Morocco’s decision to honour Sharjah provides an opportunity to strengthen historical ties and explore shared cultural heritage. Sheikha Bodour highlighted Morocco’s contribution to intellectual and literary heritage and expressed the emirate’s honour in participating in this international event, aiming to present a vibrant cultural programme that reflects the Emirati literary and creative landscape.
Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of Morocco, expressed delight in welcoming Sharjah as the Guest of Honour, reflecting the strong ties between Morocco and the UAE. He noted the opportunity for visitors to explore Sharjah’s rich culture and history, recalling Morocco’s experience as Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair. He extended a warm welcome to Sharjah, looking forward to deepening cultural cooperation and strengthening bonds between the nations.
Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, acknowledged Morocco as a cultural beacon and the honouring of Sharjah as a reaffirmation of deep-rooted cultural ties. He emphasized the vision of H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, positioning culture as a foundation for fostering international relationships. Under Sheikha Bodour’s leadership, SBA focuses on strengthening cultural exchange, deepening collaboration with Morocco, and supporting the publishing industry.
As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will participate in RIBF with a comprehensive cultural programme highlighting Emirati literature and creative arts. Over 15 Emirati publishers will present their works, and the event will include panel discussions with Emirati and Moroccan writers and intellectuals. Workshops for children, traditional performances, and collaborations between Emirati and Moroccan calligraphers will enrich the programme, offering an immersive experience that blends literature, art, and heritage.