According to information compiled by Few.ae editor, the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 returns to Expo Centre Sharjah from Wednesday 5 November to Sunday 16 November, bringing twelve days of author talks, signings, workshops and family programming under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi. Organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, the 44th edition is one of the world’s largest literary gatherings, drawing hundreds of writers and thousands of publishing professionals for more than a thousand events across the fairgrounds.
Dates, opening hours and who’s staging it
The official SIBF schedule sets the public dates for 5–16 November 2025. The fair is managed by the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), with daily opening hours published on the SIBF site (traditionally 10:00–22:00 on weekdays with extended nights on peak days). Expect additional professional days around the fair: the Publishers Conference runs 2–4 November and the Librarians Conference 8–10 November.
What’s on: authors, programmes and special features
SIBF’s programme blends headline author talks, panel discussions, book signings, Cookery Corner demos, kids’ activities and comics sessions—plus trade-facing tracks for agents, editors and librarians. Local coverage ahead of opening highlights more than 1,200 events and 250+ authors expected this year, underscoring the fair’s scale. Keep an eye on the “Activities & Guests” hub and the floor plan once released to map your day.
Venue overview: how Expo Centre Sharjah is set up for SIBF
Expo Centre Sharjah, in the Al Khan district, is a purpose-built exhibition complex with six interconnectable halls (each around 4,000 sqm) and up to 40,000 sqm of indoor exhibition space. The venue maintains people-counting and crowd-flow systems, dedicated parking zones, prayer rooms and VIP areas—useful during peak evening sessions. Published specs and partner guides reference around 1,600 on-site parking spaces and a recent multi-storey facility nearby that adds roughly 1,300 bays.
Getting there from Dubai, Sharjah and Ajman
SBA has announced expanded access this year, including free shuttle buses and marine links throughout the fair. From Dubai, shuttles depart Al Rashidiya Bus Station at 9:00, 13:00 and 17:00 with returns at 12:00, 16:00 and 21:00; an FR5 marine route connects Al Ghubaiba to Sharjah Aquarium, with free traditional boats onward to Expo Centre. Within Sharjah, frequent city buses and the Line 9 corridor stop near Al Taawun Street by the venue. Inter-emirate routes (E303/E306/E307/E308) also serve the corridor. Taxis and ride-hailing have dedicated drop-offs on event days—follow steward directions on arrival.
Typical weather during the fair
Early–mid November in Sharjah is warm and dry: average daytime highs hover near 31°C with evenings around 22°C and minimal rainfall—ideal for arriving by shuttle or boat and strolling the outdoor forecourt before heading inside the climate-controlled halls. Light layers and comfortable footwear are smart picks for long programme days.
On-site services and navigation
Expo Centre’s broad concourses, clear wayfinding and hall interconnections are designed for high footfall fairs like SIBF. Expect staffed information points, prayer facilities, F&B kiosks and kids’ areas spread between halls. If you’re driving, arrive early for the closest lots; otherwise, the shuttle and marine options often prove quickest during peak evening author sessions.
Tickets, entry and registration
SIBF traditionally offers free public entry, with certain sessions requiring advance registration. The 2025 registration portal is live for residents and international visitors; creating an account also unlocks app features such as interactive maps, book scanning and signing alerts. Check your session page for RSVP notes before you travel.
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