Latest news with #RIBF
Sharjah 24
30-04-2025
- Sharjah 24
HoW concludes Rabat Book Fair
The HoW booth attracted notable attention, including a visit from Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, and H.E. Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. HoW Executive Director Marwa Al Aqroubi welcomed the dignitaries, offering insights into the showcased works that reflected the Arab world's enduring contributions to travelogues and maritime navigation. The booth also welcomed distinguished guests, including Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, and H.E. Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family. A Bridge of Cultural and Intellectual Exchange Marwa Al Aqroubi said: 'Morocco is a timeless crossroads of Arab-Islamic heritage — a living bridge of culture and thought. At RIBF, House of Wisdom continues this dialogue, uniting shared values beyond borders.' She added: 'Sharjah's designation as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019 marked a turning point in championing knowledge, embodied in the founding of House of Wisdom. With Rabat stepping into the same role in 2026, our cultural ties grow even stronger, reflecting the enduring commitment of the UAE and Morocco to champion culture and preserve our shared human heritage.' The HoW booth hosted a session titled 'Chapters of Islamic Art: Travelogues – Exploring the Legacy of Ahmad ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta.' The session highlighted the lasting impact of Islamic travelogues, with insights from H.E. Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Sheikha Al Mutairi, Head of National Culture and Documents at Juma Al Majid Center. They discussed the motivations behind Muslim travels and the crucial contributions of Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta in documenting their journeys. Additionally, HoW showcased its flagship initiatives, including the second edition of 'Chapters of Islamic Art,' currently running in Sharjah until 5 July with the theme 'Travelogues.' The exhibition features the origins of geographic documentation, Idrisi's medieval maps, ancient navigation tools, and rare manuscripts and books. Visitors to the RIBF were also invited to experience the exhibition through an immersive, interactive virtual tour. Rare Manuscripts and Books on Navigation and Travel House of Wisdom showcased a collection of rare manuscripts and books that highlighted the contributions of notable Arab explorers and navigators, including Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta. Among the exhibits was a manuscript titled 'The Verses of Ibn Majid,' a rare collection of poems, verses, and letters by Ibn Majid on maritime literature, offering significant scientific value due to its previously unpublished poetic texts. The exhibition also featured 'Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid,' a book authored by His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The book provides documented evidence that exonerates Ibn Majid from claims that he assisted the Portuguese in reaching and occupying India. Also on display was a rare manuscript of Ibn Battuta's 'A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling,' documenting his 30-year journey across 44 countries. First printed in 1933 by the Amiriya Press in Cairo, the two-volume work has been translated into Portuguese, French, English, and partially into German. The participation further strengthens the HoW's efforts to enhance Sharjah's international cultural presence and highlight Arab and Islamic heritage through its evolving themes, including travelogues as a gateway to understanding civilisations and fostering cultural dialogue.
Gulf Today
30-04-2025
- Gulf Today
Sharjah gives rare manuscripts of Ibn Battua, Ibn Majid to Morocco
As part of Sharjah's Guest of Honour presence at the 30th Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair (RIBF), House of Wisdom (HoW) concluded its participation with a thoughtfully curated cultural showcase highlighting the rich tradition of Islamic travelogues. Featuring rare manuscripts and exhibits, the experience celebrated the legendary journeys of Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta — two of the Muslim world's most renowned explorers. The HoW booth attracted notable attention, including a visit from Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Book Authority, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Moulay Rachid, and Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. HoW Executive Director Marwa Al Aqroubi welcomed the dignitaries, offering insights into the showcased works that reflected the Arab world's enduring contributions to travelogues and maritime navigation. The booth also welcomed distinguished guests, including Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Al Nuaimi, Chairman of Ajman Municipality and Planning Department and Vice Chairman of Ajman University's Board of Trustees, and Aawatif Hayar, Moroccan Minister of Solidarity, Social Integration and the Family. Rare manuscripts House of Wisdom showcased a collection of rare manuscripts and books that highlighted the contributions of notable Arab explorers and navigators, including Ahmad Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta. Among the exhibits was a manuscript titled 'The Verses of Ibn Majid,' a rare collection of poems, verses, and letters by Ibn Majid on maritime literature, offering significant scientific value due to its previously unpublished poetic texts. The exhibition also featured 'Memorandum for Historians on the Innocence of Ibn Majid,' a book authored by His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah. The book provides documented evidence that exonerates Ibn Majid from claims that he assisted the Portuguese in reaching and occupying India. Also on display was a rare manuscript of Ibn Battuta's 'A Masterpiece to Those Who Contemplate the Wonders of Cities and the Marvels of Traveling,' documenting his 30-year journey across 44 countries. First printed in 1933 by the Amiriya Press in Cairo, the two-volume work has been translated into Portuguese, French, English, and partially into German. The participation further strengthens the HoW's efforts to enhance Sharjah's international cultural presence and highlight Arab and Islamic heritage through its evolving themes, including travelogues as a gateway to understanding civilisations and fostering cultural dialogue. A bridge of cultural and intellectual exchange Marwa Al Aqroubi said: 'Morocco is a timeless crossroads of Arab-Islamic heritage — a living bridge of culture and thought. At RIBF, House of Wisdom continues this dialogue, uniting shared values beyond borders.' She added: 'Sharjah's designation as UNESCO World Book Capital in 2019 marked a turning point in championing knowledge, embodied in the founding of House of Wisdom. With Rabat stepping into the same role in 2026, our cultural ties grow even stronger, reflecting the enduring commitment of the UAE and Morocco to champion culture and preserve our shared human heritage.' The HoW booth hosted a session titled 'Chapters of Islamic Art: Travelogues – Exploring the Legacy of Ahmad ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta.' The session highlighted the lasting impact of Islamic travelogues, with insights from Dr Abdulaziz Al Musallam, Chairman of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, and Sheikha Al Mutairi, Head of National Culture and Documents at Juma Al Majid Center. They discussed the motivations behind Muslim travels and the crucial contributions of Ibn Majid and Ibn Battuta in documenting their journeys. Additionally, HoW showcased its flagship initiatives, including the second edition of 'Chapters of Islamic Art,' currently running in Sharjah until 5 July with the theme 'Travelogues.' The exhibition features the origins of geographic documentation, Idrisi's medieval maps, ancient navigation tools, and rare manuscripts and books. Visitors to the RIBF were also invited to experience the exhibition through an immersive, interactive virtual tour.
See - Sada Elbalad
21-04-2025
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Seminar at RIBF Highlights Promoting Intra-Islamic Dialogue
Mohamed Mandour As part of its cultural program at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF), the Muslim Council of Elders hosted its second cultural seminar, titled 'The Problem of the Ummah's Division into Sunnis and Shiites.' The session was moderated by Dr. Mohamed Gamal, a researcher at the Heritage Revival Office of Al-Azhar, and featured a presentation by Dr. Elias Mohamed Belka, Professor at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez and Director of Strategic Studies at the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research. Opening the session, Dr. Mohamed Gamal emphasized that the Muslim Council of Elders, under the chairmanship of Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, Grand Imam of Al-Azhar, is undertaking tireless efforts to mend the divisions within the Islamic nation. He highlighted the Grand Imam's 2022 call for intra-Islamic dialogue aimed at rejecting sectarian strife and conflict and reuniting the diverse schools of thought within Islam. These efforts culminated in the first edition of the Intra-Islamic Dialogue Conference, held in February this year in the Kingdom of Bahrain under the theme 'One Ummah… One Shared Destiny.' A major outcome of the conference was the Call of the People of the Qibla—a comprehensive charter for unity and reconciliation within the Ummah. Dr. Elias Mohamed Belka, Professor at Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University in Fez and Director of Strategic Studies at the Al Hokama Center for Peace Research, commended the efforts of the Muslim Council of Elders, led by Dr. Ahmed Al-Tayeb, in bridging the divide across the Islamic world. He noted that the Al Hokama Center has given significant attention to the issue of sectarian division, and recently published a book titled 'The Problem of the Ummah's Division into Sunnis and Shiites: Origins and Solutions.' read more New Tourism Route To Launch in Old Cairo Ahmed El Sakka-Led Play 'Sayidati Al Jamila' to Be Staged in KSA on Dec. 6 Mandy Moore Joins Season 2 of "Dr. Death" Anthology Series Don't Miss These Movies at 44th Cairo Int'l Film Festival Today Amr Diab to Headline KSA's MDLBEAST Soundstorm 2022 Festival Arts & Culture Mai Omar Stuns in Latest Instagram Photos Arts & Culture "The Flash" to End with Season 9 Arts & Culture Ministry of Culture Organizes four day Children's Film Festival Arts & Culture Canadian PM wishes Muslims Eid-al-Adha News Egypt confirms denial of airspace access to US B-52 bombers News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia Lifestyle Pistachio and Raspberry Cheesecake Domes Recipe News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Videos & Features Bouchra Dahlab Crowned Miss Arab World 2025 .. Reem Ganzoury Wins Miss Arab Africa Title (VIDEO) Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple
Zawya
09-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
Sharjah named official Guest of Honour at the upcoming 30th Rabat International Book Fair in Morocco
Bodour Al Qasimi: Rabat's recognition of Sharjah reflects a cultural dialogue between the eastern and western Arab world. Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco: A presence that reflects the depth of historical relations between Morocco and the UAE Ahmed Al Ameri: This honour is a testament to the Ruler of Sharjah's vision, which positioned culture as a cornerstone for strengthening connections between nations. Sharjah: In recognition of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah's cultural project, and Sharjah's global status as a capital of knowledge, the Kingdom of Morocco has named the emirate as the official Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF). Organised by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, RIBF 2025 will take place from April 17 to 27 at the iconic OLM Souissi. The announcement was made during a ceremony at which Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing at the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Latifa Moftaqir, General Coordinator of RIBF and Director of the Moroccan Archives Foundation, signed the agreement. This announcement marks a significant step in enhancing Arab cultural exchange and deepening ties between intellectuals and literary figures from the UAE and Morocco. As the Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present a diverse cultural agenda highlighting the UAE's contemporary and historical literary and artistic achievements, and the programme will also celebrate the richness of Emirati heritage and the cultural values it shares with Morocco, fostering greater mutual understanding and collaboration. A global cultural dialogue Commenting on the announcement, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, said, 'Culture is one of the most powerful channels through which nations and societies connect, fostering meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding. It extends beyond literature, art, and music to encompass the identity and values that define communities. Morocco's decision to honour Sharjah as RIBF's Guest of Honour provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen the two countries' deep historical ties and explore the shared cultural heritage that unites our peoples.' The Chairperson added: 'For centuries, Morocco has been a centre of thought, creativity, and scholarship, which yielded invaluable contributions to intellectual and literary heritage, not only within the Arab world but also globally. This recognition is not just a tribute to Sharjah and the UAE; it is a platform for fostering dialogue and exchanging expertise between the diverse cultures and civilisations of the eastern and western Arab world.' Sheikha Bodour continued, 'We are honoured to participate in this international event and look forward to presenting a diverse cultural programme that reflects the vibrancy and depth of the Emirati literary and creative landscape. This programme will catalyse collaboration between both nations' publishers, writers, and intellectuals, enriching the Arab cultural sector and strengthening its connections with the wider global literary community.' Commenting on Sharjah's selection as the Guest of Honour, His Excellency Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco, said: "I am delighted to welcome Sharjah as the Guest of Honour at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair. This reflects the strength and depth of the historical and fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, and his brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE." He added: "This will be a valuable opportunity for visitors to the fair to explore the rich culture, history, and literary contributions of the Emirate of Sharjah. We experienced Sharjah's dedication to culture and literature firsthand when Morocco was celebrated as the Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair. That event was a resounding success, thanks to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah." He concluded: "Once again, we extend a warm welcome to Sharjah in Rabat. This edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair will be a great opportunity to further deepen cultural cooperation and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between our two nations." For his part, HE Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: "Morocco has long been a cultural beacon, seamlessly blending the depth of Arab-Islamic heritage with the influences of global intellectual thought. The honouring of Sharjah as the Guest of Honour at the RIBF 2025 reaffirms the deep-rooted cultural ties that unite us. This celebration is a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who positioned culture as the foundation for fostering relationships between nations, founded on the belief that knowledge is the cornerstone of renaissance and sustainable development." He added: "Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, we are focused on strengthening Arab and global cultural exchange. Our participation in the international event presents a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration with Morocco and expand partnerships between intellectuals, publishers, and creatives from both sides. This is based on Sharjah and Rabat's shared cultural vision of supporting the publishing industry, advancing translation initiatives, and promoting intellectual production that enhances the global presence of Arab culture." A comprehensive Emirati cultural programme As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will participate in RIBF with a comprehensive cultural programme that highlights the history and contemporary evolution of Emirati literature and creative arts in various forms. More than 15 Emirati publishers will also present their latest works at the event. The participation will also include panel discussions featuring Emirati writers and intellectuals alongside their Moroccan counterparts. The programme will also feature dedicated workshops for children, offering them an interactive introduction to Emirati heritage. Additionally, traditional performances will showcase the diversity and richness of the UAE's cultural landscape. In celebration of Arabic calligraphy, Emirati calligraphers will also collaborate with their Moroccan counterparts to create artworks, highlighting the artistic and cultural ties between the two nations. Through this comprehensive programme, the UAE's participation in the fair will offer an immersive and enriching experience that seamlessly blends literature, art, and heritage.
Gulf Today
09-02-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sharjah named Guest of Honour at Rabat book fair
Sharjah: In recognition of His Highness Dr. Sheikh Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah's cultural project, and Sharjah's global status as a capital of knowledge, the Kingdom of Morocco has named the emirate as the official Guest of Honour at the 30th Rabat International Book Fair (RIBF). Organised by the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, RIBF 2025 will take place from April 17 to 27 at the iconic OLM Souissi. The announcement was made during a ceremony at which Khoula Al Mujaini, Director of Events and Marketing at the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA), and Latifa Moftaqir, General Coordinator of RIBF and Director of the Moroccan Archives Foundation, signed the agreement. This announcement marks a significant step in enhancing Arab cultural exchange and deepening ties between intellectuals and literary figures from the UAE and Morocco. As the Guest of Honour, Sharjah will present a diverse cultural agenda highlighting the UAE's contemporary and historical literary and artistic achievements, and the programme will also celebrate the richness of Emirati heritage and the cultural values it shares with Morocco, fostering greater mutual understanding and collaboration. A global cultural dialogue Commenting on the announcement, Sheikha Bodour Bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, said, 'Culture is one of the most powerful channels through which nations and societies connect, fostering meaningful dialogue and mutual understanding. It extends beyond literature, art, and music to encompass the identity and values that define communities. Morocco's decision to honour Sharjah as RIBF's Guest of Honour provides a valuable opportunity to strengthen the two countries' deep historical ties and explore the shared cultural heritage that unites our peoples.' The Chairperson added: 'For centuries, Morocco has been a centre of thought, creativity, and scholarship, which yielded invaluable contributions to intellectual and literary heritage, not only within the Arab world but also globally. This recognition is not just a tribute to Sharjah and the UAE; it is a platform for fostering dialogue and exchanging expertise between the diverse cultures and civilisations of the eastern and western Arab world.' Sheikha Bodour continued, 'We are honoured to participate in this international event and look forward to presenting a diverse cultural programme that reflects the vibrancy and depth of the Emirati literary and creative landscape. This programme will catalyse collaboration between both nations' publishers, writers, and intellectuals, enriching the Arab cultural sector and strengthening its connections with the wider global literary community.' Commenting on Sharjah's selection as the Guest of Honour, Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid, Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication of the Kingdom of Morocco, said: "I am delighted to welcome Sharjah as the Guest of Honour at the 30th edition of the Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair. This reflects the strength and depth of the historical and fraternal ties between the Kingdom of Morocco and the United Arab Emirates, under the leadership of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, King of Morocco, and his brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE." He added: "This will be a valuable opportunity for visitors to the fair to explore the rich culture, history, and literary contributions of the Emirate of Sharjah. We experienced Sharjah's dedication to culture and literature firsthand when Morocco was celebrated as the Guest of Honour at the Sharjah International Book Fair. That event was a resounding success, thanks to the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council of the UAE and Ruler of Sharjah." He concluded: "Once again, we extend a warm welcome to Sharjah in Rabat. This edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair will be a great opportunity to further deepen cultural cooperation and strengthen the bonds of brotherhood between our two nations." On his part, Ahmed Bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of SBA, said: "Morocco has long been a cultural beacon, seamlessly blending the depth of Arab-Islamic heritage with the influences of global intellectual thought. The honouring of Sharjah as the Guest of Honour at the RIBF 2025 reaffirms the deep-rooted cultural ties that unite us. This celebration is a testament to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan Bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, who positioned culture as the foundation for fostering relationships between nations, founded on the belief that knowledge is the cornerstone of renaissance and sustainable development." He added: "Under the leadership of Sheikha Bodour Al Qasimi, Chairperson of SBA, we are focused on strengthening Arab and global cultural exchange. Our participation in the international event presents a valuable opportunity to deepen collaboration with Morocco and expand partnerships between intellectuals, publishers, and creatives from both sides. This is based on Sharjah and Rabat's shared cultural vision of supporting the publishing industry, advancing translation initiatives, and promoting intellectual production that enhances the global presence of Arab culture." A comprehensive Emirati cultural programme As Guest of Honour, Sharjah will participate in RIBF with a comprehensive cultural programme that highlights the history and contemporary evolution of Emirati literature and creative arts in various forms. More than 15 Emirati publishers will also present their latest works at the event. The participation will also include panel discussions featuring Emirati writers and intellectuals alongside their Moroccan counterparts. The programme will also feature dedicated workshops for children, offering them an interactive introduction to Emirati heritage. Additionally, traditional performances will showcase the diversity and richness of the UAE's cultural landscape. In celebration of Arabic calligraphy, Emirati calligraphers will also collaborate with their Moroccan counterparts to create artworks, highlighting the artistic and cultural ties between the two nations. Through this comprehensive programme, the UAE's participation in the fair will offer an immersive and enriching experience that seamlessly blends literature, art, and heritage.
