Dr. Abdelilah Benarfa, Deputy Director-General (DG) of the Islamic World Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (ICESCO), is participating in the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair in the United Arab Emirates. The Event was inaugurated on Wednesday, November 6, 2024, by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the UAE Supreme Council, and Ruler of Sharjah, under the theme “It Starts with a Book.” The Fair, held at the Sharjah Expo Center, will continue through November 17 and features 2,522 publishers and exhibitors hailing from 108 countries, with Morocco as this year’s Guest of Honor.

Dr. Benarfa attended the official opening ceremony of the Fair alongside other distinguished guests. The Ceremony included the announcement of the publication of the Historical Arabic Language Dictionary, a monumental work comprising 127 volumes. This major cultural achievement was celebrated alongside the recognition of several figures who have significantly contributed to the intellectual and literary landscape.

As part of the Fair’s events, Dr. Benarfa participated in an interactive panel on “Writing and Freedom,” hosted by the Sharjah Book Authority on the opening day. This session, attended by prominent writers and authors from various countries, offered a rich discussion on the intrinsic connection between creativity and freedom and the organic bond that unites them.

Additionally, Dr. Benarfa will be joining a symposium titled “the Moroccan Character in History, Civilization and Heritage,” organized by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication. This event is part of Morocco’s extensive cultural program celebrating its role as Guest of Honor at the 43rd Sharjah International Book Fair.

This year’s edition will host over 1,357 diverse activities, with 250 guests participating from 63 countries. Among these, 500 are cultural events, including sessions, workshops, and symposia wherein leading creatives will explore major cultural and literary issues, along with the latest trends in the Arab and global cultural spheres.