The Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has officially invited authors, researchers, and publishers to submit their nominations for the prestigious 2026 Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) Awards. With a generous total prize fund of Dh625,000 distributed across ten distinct categories, the initiative aims to spotlight excellence in literature, academic research, and the publishing industry. This program, which honors Emirati, Arab, and international creators, serves as a cornerstone of Sharjah’s ongoing commitment to fostering global literary talent and reinforcing the emirate's status as a central hub for intellectual growth.

Interested participants have until August 31 to submit their applications, which requires completing an online form and providing three physical copies of their work to the SBA. The honors are split into four primary sectors: the Sharjah Award for Emirati Books, the Sharjah Award for the Best Arabic Novel, the Sharjah Award for the Best International Book, and the Sharjah Publisher Recognition Award. Winners will be celebrated during the opening ceremony of the 45th SIBF, with the awards covering works published primarily between 2025 and 2026. This initiative remains a vital platform for encouraging new voices while upholding the visionary goals of Sharjah's leadership to sustain a thriving, globally connected culture of reading and publishing.