His Highness Message:
“Those of us who enjoy reading in the emirate of Sharjah are very keen to create a reading community and promote the benefits of reading among children. For that reason we provide the best, most suitable books for all the family. We believe that books must be available to all and from this concept we turn book fairs into an oasis of knowledge and enlightenment.”
– H.H. Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi (Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah)
The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) was established in 1982 by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, a member of the Supreme Council and the ruler of Sharjah. He founded it to realize his vision of fostering a nation of readers.
Over four decades, SIBF has built a rich legacy, promoting cultural and intellectual growth and facilitating global exchanges. This 12-day cultural and literary event attracts book lovers who can browse millions of books and purchase them at competitive prices. SIBF also connects authors and publishers worldwide, hosting meetings to discuss industry trends and collaborative opportunities.
The 2024 edition of SIBF achieved $50 million in sales and welcomed 1.82 million visitors from over 200 countries. Hosted from November 6 to 17 under the theme “It Starts with a Book,” the event brought together over 2,500 publishers and exhibitors from 108 countries. It maintained its status as the world’s leading book fair for publishing rights transactions for the fourth consecutive year, registering 3,000 meetings in just 48 hours.
SIBF’s impact transcends Sharjah’s borders, creating a platform for international authors and speakers to engage with diverse audiences. Its global presence enables it to explore and celebrate various literary traditions and perspectives.
Today, SIBF stands as the third-largest book fair in the world and the most prestigious literary event in the Arab world. It serves as a hub for exciting literary events, attracting top talent in publishing and related industries to the Middle East. SIBF has been recognized internationally, earning membership in organizations such as the Afro-Asian Publishers’ Association and the GCC Book Committee and being honored by the International Publishers’ Association.
In a dynamic environment that brings together diverse voices, SIBF offers numerous opportunities, including captivating events, author signings, panel discussions, workshops, and exhibitions. Its initiatives inspire readers and drive innovation in publishing. These include the Publishers Conference, Emirati Book Awards (Emirati Novel Award, Best Emirati Creative Literature Book, Best Emirati Academic Book, and Best Emirati First Novel Award), Best Arabic Novel Award, and Best International Book Awards (Best International Non-Fiction Book and Best International Fiction Book).
ARPress, in partnership with professional authors, participated in the Sharjah International Book Fair 2024. Dedicated to fostering literary connections between authors and readers, ARPress showcased remarkable works at the event, reinforcing its commitment to promoting literature worldwide.
One such work is “Biblical and Non-Biblical Evidences For The Book of Mormon: That Show Its Validity As Scripture: A Layman’s Thesis” by Joseph Dean DeBarthe. This book has been featured at various prominent book fairs, including the 2023 Frankfurt Book Fair, the 2023 Los Angeles Times Festival of Books, and the 2023 New York Library Association event.
Joseph Dean DeBarthe is a fourth-generation member of the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Community of Christ). He holds a bachelor’s degree in business management and computer information systems from Central State University in Warrensburg, Missouri. A U.S. Navy veteran, Mr. DeBarthe served for nearly nine years and later worked as a civilian military member for 23 years.
An avid traveler, Mr. DeBarthe has visited countries across Europe, Asia, Central America, and the Arctic. He currently resides in Independence, Missouri, with his wife, Maria, a registered nurse of Mayan descent.
For more information, visit Joseph Dean DeBarthe’s website at https://authorjosephdebarthe.com.
DeBarthe’s book, written under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, addresses the body of Christ. It encourages readers to engage with its content prayerfully, seeking God’s witness regarding its validity.
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