Books are in Our DNA

Sharjah - UNESCO Book Capital of the World

A Lifelong Love of Learning

There’s a story about His Highness Sheikh Doctor Sultan Bin Mohammed Al-Qasimi, Ruler of Sharjah.

When Sheikh Sultan was a boy his father, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Saqr Al Qasimi (may God grant him mercy,) gave him a golden dagger as a gift. Now, Sheikh Sultan had a deep reverence for books. So much so that at 12 years old he mortgaged that dagger, that priceless family heirloom, to buy books.

It is that enthusiasm in the search for knowledge that drives us.

Founded in 2014 by
Royal Decree

SBA’s vision and purpose are defined by the Ruler of Sharjah, a scholar, author, and an avid reader. We want future generations to grow up with his passion for books and culture. His mission to create a nation of readers is the driving force behind everything we do.

Supporting the Exchange of
Knowledge and Culture

Our mission is to connect with the world using books as a medium. We do this in a number of ways:

A Message from Our 
Chairman

I joined SBA after spending years at the Department of Culture and Information in Sharjah. I found myself immersed in a wonderful and progressive literary universe the minute I assumed responsibility as chairman.

 

They say “your job shapes your identity”, in one way or another. Mine has helped me discover my true self. The world of literature is such an emotive one that one cannot see it as purely business.

 

Ahmed Al-Ameri, Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority

At SBA, we are proud to contribute to both Sharjah and the U.A.E.’s collective passion to make books and reading available to all. Together, we will build a knowledge-based society and economy through the free exchange of ideas and culture with the world.

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