Cairo: The Sharjah Institute for Heritage (SIH) is set to make a significant impact at the 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair, scheduled from January 21 to February 3, 2026, at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in New Cairo. This event, which draws participation from numerous government entities and publishing houses from the Arab world and beyond, is one of the most prominent cultural gatherings in the Middle East, attracting nearly two million visitors each year.
According to Emirates News Agency, Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, emphasized the Institute's dedication to maintaining a strong presence at the Cairo International Book Fair. This participation is part of SIH's broader mission to preserve both tangible and intangible cultural heritage, ensuring its relevance to contemporary society, and promoting it through a variety of channels.
Dr Al Musallam highlighted that the Institute's strategy includes launching and participating in various heritage events, exhibitions, and festivals at both local and international levels. He described the Cairo International Book Fair as a critical global cultural platform where the Institute consistently aims to establish a robust presence.
Furthermore, Dr Al Musallam noted that the Sharjah Institute for Heritage has made notable progress in enriching the field of heritage, attracting researchers and specialists, and supporting studies in this domain. This is in addition to bolstering both the Emirati and broader Arab libraries with specialised heritage publications, such as books, journals, and periodicals.
He also stressed the commitment of the Government of Sharjah to prioritizing books, knowledge-based industries, and fostering a culture of reading. This strategic focus is guided by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah.
The SIH pavilion at the fair will showcase over 1,000 publications, covering a wide array of heritage topics and contributing to cultural heritage awareness. The Institute is also offering a comprehensive cultural programme that includes panel discussions on topics such as shared cultural heritage between Emirati and Egyptian traditions, the presence and absence of heritage books, Egyptian heritage in SIH publications, and the realities and prospects of specialised institutional publishing.
Additionally, the programme will feature Heritage Readings in collaboration with the Book Club and book-signing events for the latest SIH publications.