SIBF 2025 to host poetry evenings in 8 languages

Poetry evenings will give voice to verse in eight languages at the upcoming 44th Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF 2025).

- Gulf Today, Staff Reporter

This year’s cultural programme running from November 5 to 16 at Sharjah Expo Centre, features acclaimed poets delivering readings in Arabic, Greek, English, Urdu, Punjabi, Malayalam, Russian and Tagalog, allowing audiences to experience poetry as both personal and collective expression, connecting across cultures.

The poetry evenings will feature leading Arab voices, including Saeed Al Mana, prominent Saudi poet known for his appearances on the television programme “Sha’er Al-Rayah.” Also taking part is Qatari poet Hamad Al-Buraidi, author of “Mulhimat Thikrayati” and “Marahil,” a reflective memoir written in verse and prose.

Greece, this year’s Guest of Honour, is represented by poet, translator and publisher Danae Sioziou.

Her collections include “Useful Children’s Games,” “Possible Views” and “Letters.”

Canadian poet and spoken word artist Saara Ali will present both written and improvised poems in English. She is the author of “Barefoot: A Seeker's Journey,” and her work focuses on human connection and the expressive power of language.