The United Arab Emirates will host the 42nd International Congress of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) in 2030, with Sharjah set to stage the event for the first time in the Arab world.
Cultural hub
Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) and Founder and Honorary President of the UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), said: “Hosting this congress reflects the UAE’s strong belief in the power of words to shape awareness and develop individuals. Stories are not only a source of knowledge but also a powerful means to inspire generations and promote values of empathy and openness. The congress offers a platform to showcase the UAE’s experience in supporting children’s literature and advancing the publishing sector, while strengthening Sharjah’s position as a global cultural hub. We look forward to bringing together experts and institutions from around the world to deliver impactful initiatives that open new opportunities for children and affirm that stories can drive meaningful and sustainable change in societies.”
Publishing industry
The UAE’s selection to host this global event highlights its established role as a leading cultural hub both regionally and internationally, supported by a comprehensive ecosystem that advances the publishing industry and fosters a culture of reading. This includes book fairs, festivals, cultural institutions, translation initiatives, public libraries, and knowledge-based programmes for all age groups.
Congress themes
The congress is expected to present a comprehensive programme covering key topics in children’s and young adult literature, including creative content development, translation quality, and the role of schools and libraries in nurturing reading habits. It will also showcase best practices in book design and accessibility, as well as explore literature’s contribution to environmental and social awareness and the use of bibliotherapy as a tool for positive impact.
Platform for dialogue
Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, Minister of Culture, said: “The UAE’s hosting of this congress reflects its commitment to culture as a bridge for communication between people and a platform for dialogue and mutual understanding. Children’s literature represents a shared space where values and experiences intersect, helping to shape more culturally aware generations. It also strengthens the region’s presence on the global cultural stage and expands opportunities for collaboration with international partners in advancing the publishing industry, further consolidating the UAE’s position as a hub for impactful cultural initiatives that broaden the horizons of future generations.”
Joint initiatives
The hosting also reflects IBBY’s recognition of the UAE Board on Books for Young People’s programmes and initiatives, particularly its efforts to support national sections and Arab participation within the organisation. The congress is expected to strengthen partnerships among Arab and regional sections, enable knowledge exchange with global counterparts, and support joint initiatives in children’s and young adult literature.
About IBBY
Founded in 1953 and headquartered in Switzerland, the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) is a global organisation active in more than 80 countries. It is dedicated to promoting reading and supporting children’s literature through collaboration, cultural exchange, and professional development. Its biennial congress serves as a key international platform for sharing expertise and best practices.
The UAE Board on Books for Young People (UAEBBY), founded in 2010 on the initiative of Sheikha Bodour, spearheads efforts to advance Arabic children’s literature and foster a culture of reading through training programmes, awards, and publishing support.
With this hosting, Sharjah joins a prestigious list of global cities that have previously hosted the congress, including Trieste (2024), Putrajaya (2022), Moscow (2021), Athens (2018), Auckland (2016), Mexico City (2014), and London (2012), with upcoming editions set for Ottawa (2026) and Barcelona (2028).
