SIBF 2026 Sharjah UAE

We are pleased to announce the 2026 edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, which will be held at the UAE’s Expo Centre in Sharjah (SICB). There will be two parallel morning full-day pre-conferences designed to advance professional knowledge in library and information science on this occasion.

Librarians and information professionals have much to anticipate, as the pre-conferences will explore RDA (Resource Description and Access) in depth, with a strong focus on non-book materials. This training will equip participants with the competencies and practical knowledge needed to catalog diverse resource formats systematically, ensuring libraries continue to thrive as dynamic information repositories.

At the same time, a second pre-conference will highlight the launch of an institutional repository initiative. This forward-looking effort acknowledges the evolving role of libraries within an increasingly digital environment; its objective is to preserve, disseminate, and enhance access to scholarly output. Participants will benefit from hands-on sessions, expert guidance, and best practices for developing institutional repositories that promote a culture of open knowledge sharing.

Since 2013, the Sharjah International Book Fair has partnered with the American Library Association to deliver high-quality professional development opportunities. This long-standing collaboration reflects the fair’s dedication to empowering librarians across the Gulf region and internationally, while contributing to the advancement of library and information sciences worldwide.

As one of the largest and most influential book fairs on the global stage, the Sharjah International Book Fair serves as an ideal setting for this professional conference. Beyond being a hub for literary exploration, the fair functions as a vital platform that brings together experts, educators, and professionals—including librarians—to inspire innovation and drive meaningful, positive change.