UAE- SIBF Exhibition spaces sell out
(MENAFN- Emirates News Agency (WAM))
SHARJAH, 5th September, 2016 (WAM) -- The 35th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair, SIBF, taking place from November 2nd - 12th, 2016, has announced that its total exhibition area for publishers has already sold out, with two more months to go before the inauguration at Expo Centre Sharjah.
Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, Chairman of Sharjah Book Authority, SBA, said, "This year has seen unprecedented demand for exhibition space by local, regional and international publishing houses wishing to participate. Due to the overwhelming demand, registration for SIBF 2016 opened in October 2015, before the start of the previous edition, the first time this has happened since the fair's inception in 1982."
He went on to say, "After 35 years of dedication and hard work that is in-line with the directives and vision of H.H. Dr. Sheikh Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, SIBF has succeeded in highlighting the role of books and promoting understanding and dialogue between individuals. This has helped to create a more stable and secure world where the values of peace and respect for others prevail."
Salim Omar Salim, Director of Sales and Marketing at SBA, emphasised that the growing demand from publishers, professionals, stakeholders and visitors to participate in SIBF reflects Sharjah's prestigious cultural stature on the global stage.
"Preparations for SIBF 2016 started before the 2015 edition when the work team embarked on laying down the event programme for 2016. Their immediate priorities centred on selecting prominent figures to invite and developing the designs of stands. We are now putting the final touches on the marketing and advertising campaign for SIBF 2016, with the theme for this year in keeping with the 35th anniversary of the SIBF launch" he said.
Participation at SIBF 2016 is open to government and semi-governmental organisations, publishers, book distributors, book sellers, e-publishers, rights agents, cultural organisations, public libraries, research centres, publishers' societies, educational institutions, university libraries, media, producers of literary and educational aids and book fairs from around the world.
Each year SIBF introduces a rich programme of events and activities designed to cater to all of the community.
WAM/Ahlam/Moran