Sharjah Opens Registration for Global Publishers Conference Ahead of SIBF 2026

Sharjah Book Authority has opened registrations for the 16th Sharjah International Publishers Conference, bringing together global publishing professionals ahead of SIBF 2026.
on Jul 17, 2026

Registration Opens for Global Publishers Conference Prior to SIBF 2026 in Sharjah

Registrations for the 16th edition of the Sharjah International Publishers Conference are now open. This conference is scheduled to be hosted at Expo Centre Sharjah, from November 1 to 3, 2026, just before the commencement of the 45th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), which is slated for November 4. The conference will gather publishers, literary agents, rights professionals, and other publishing experts from all over the world.

Organized as a prominent platform for the exchange of business and networking in the publishing world, this three-day conference will include rights negotiations, business matchings, training, and more importantly, discussion on new trends influencing the world of publishing. The attendees will get an opportunity to utilize the US$300,000 SIBF Translation Grant and the Publishers Recognition Award for enhancing global collaborations in publishing.

This year's program comprises 30 dedicated workshops on topics ranging from artificial intelligence in publishing to audiobook creation, copyright and licensing issues, international markets, leadership and management, and innovative strategies. These seminars are aimed at equipping the participants with skills needed for coping with the modern publishing world as well as developing opportunities for success.

According to Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, the CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority, the conference is yet another step towards making a significant contribution into improving the global publishing environment and providing more possibilities for cooperation, partnership, and rights trading. Furthermore, this initiative is also intended to increase the global presence of Arabic publications and promote cross-cultural dialogue via books.

Applications will be accepted until August 25, 2026, after which successful applicants are anticipated to get their confirmation on September 11. The conference will bring together publishing experts from over 70 nations, thus affirming Sharjah's status as one of the most important centers for publication.