Sharjah International Book Fair 2026: Dates and Tips

The Sharjah International Book Fair is one of the biggest dates in the UAE reading calendar, and the 2026 edition is a good excuse for a family outing. This year's fair is the 45th, and it takes place from 4 to 15 November at Expo Centre Sharjah. This guide explains what is planned for younger visitors, how to organise your journey and which days may suit your household best.

Key facts at a glance

The fair lasts twelve days, starting on Wednesday 4 November and finishing on Sunday 15 November 2026. Its theme this year is "Made of Stories", which fits well with the many storytelling and poetry activities planned for visitors of every age.

The venue is Expo Centre Sharjah, in the Al Taawun district of Sharjah. The fair is organised by the Sharjah Book Authority, and its chairwoman has said the event aims to bring readers closer to authors and publishers.

Oman has been named Guest of Honour. That means the Omani delegation will present talks, performances and workshops that highlight the literature, arts and heritage of the country.

Opening hours and entry arrangements were not stated in the reports used for this guide, so confirm them with the organiser before you set off.

What families can expect

The fair is far more than rows of bookstalls. The programme mixes literary discussions, signings, workshops, theatre and shows, and a good share of it is aimed at children.

Future Hands District

This is an interactive zone where children learn about different jobs through hands-on activities. It works well for school-age children who enjoy trying things rather than listening to talks.

Poets' Corner

At Poets' Corner, visitors can share a personal story and have it turned into a poem in Arabic or English. It is open to all ages, so parents and grandparents can take part alongside the children.

Cookery Corner

A Cookery Corner is planned with live chef demonstrations of Arab and international dishes. It offers a calm break between more energetic activities.

Oman's children's workshops

As Guest of Honour, Oman will run six workshops for children as part of a wider line-up of cultural sessions and artistic performances. Folk and musical performances are also planned.

Family shows that need booking

Three stage productions require a reservation in advance, so they are worth planning around before you pick your day.

• When Memories Sing is a musical that revisits childhood songs across generations. It opens on 7 November.
• Impossible or Science?! is presented by Abdullah Annan on 8 November. It is an interactive show that uses optical illusions and experiments, and the audience joins in.
• Waterland is staged outdoors on 14 and 15 November.

If your children are set on one particular show, book first and then build the rest of the day around that time slot.

Getting there

Expo Centre Sharjah sits in the Al Taawun area, in the emirate of Sharjah. Families coming from Dubai, Ajman or the northern emirates should allow generous extra time, because a major fair usually draws heavier road traffic around the venue, especially at weekends.

Reports say that extra parking and transport arrangements are being prepared for the fair, with details due before it opens. Check the organiser's updates for the final plan, including any shuttle or parking guidance.

If you travel by car with young children, think about the following:

• Aim to arrive before the busiest part of the day, so you can park without a long walk.
• Bring a stroller or carrier for smaller children, as the halls are large.
• Keep a bottle of water and a light snack in your bag.

When to go

The fair spans two weekends. The UAE weekend runs Saturday and Sunday, and the first one falls on 7 and 8 November, with the final weekend on 14 and 15 November. Those days are likely to be the busiest, and several of the booked shows fall on them.

For a more relaxed visit, a weekday is usually calmer, particularly if your children are of school age and you are able to pick a day that suits your own school and work schedule. Families who want the shows should check the booking calendar first and then choose the date.

A few planning ideas:

• Toddlers and young children usually do best with a shorter visit, focused on one or two activities.
• Primary-age children may enjoy Future Hands District and a workshop.
• Teenagers who love reading may prefer the author talks and the large book displays.

A last year at this venue

The 2026 fair is the final edition planned at Expo Centre Sharjah. Reports say the event will relocate to a new exhibition and convention centre from its 46th edition, in November 2027. Expo Centre Sharjah will continue to host commercial exhibitions. For families who know the current halls well, this year is the last chance to visit the fair in its familiar home.

Practical checklist

• Confirm opening hours and entry rules with the organiser.
• Book tickets for any of the three stage productions you want.
• Plan your route and allow time for parking.
• Pack water, snacks, a stroller if needed and a bag for the books you buy.
• Decide on a budget for books before you arrive, so children know what to expect.

Check dates, prices and availability with the organiser before you go.

Who the fair suits

The Sharjah International Book Fair is a good match for families with children of many ages, for readers of Arabic and English, and for anyone curious about the culture of Oman this year. Because the programme is varied, even a short visit can include a workshop, a poem, a show and some time among the bookstalls.