On the page with the UAE

Visitors to the ongoing Bangkok International Book Fair 2015 are in for a rare treat. In addition to the usual pile of new titles, they can also enjoy demonstrations of Arabic writing, rare artefacts and modern art, plus live folk dances and traditional Henna paintings from the United Arab Emirates.

Now in its 13th edition, the Bangkok International Book Fair has become a major global publishing event incorporating the copyright trade and book trade as well as cultural events and displays. The fair acts as a hub of book markets in Southeast Asia and is aiming to be the gateway book party for the Asean member countries.

The 2014 edition saw 450 companies exhibiting at 960 stands, featured 66 forums and seminars, 123 staged activities, and welcomed 1.6 million visitors.

This year’s UAE Pavilion boasts a variety of cultural exhibitions and activities designed to boost its markets in this region. 

The platform introduces the Emirates’ culture through many artefacts, including selected artworks from Sharjah collections and ethnographic objects from the Sharjah Institute for Heritage. Also featured are displays from the UAE indigenous communities such as traditional henna making, while the Sharjah Folklore Band will perform such traditional dances as the Ayyala, Ahala, Liwa and Haban.

In line with the rich agenda prepared by Emirati cultural institutions, a number of interactive workshops and cultures are being organised by the Emirates Publishers Association to highlight the vibrant publishing industry.

Arabic letters are introduced in a special session, while another focuses on the cultural dimensions of development in the UAE. A lecture titled “Digital Education Programme” explains the government’s efforts to build an educated and enabled generation.

Arabic poetry evenings and a short film screening are also being organised.

Among the personalities participating in the fair are Ahmed al Amir of the Sharjah Book Authority, Abdulaziz Musalam, of the Sharjah Institute for Heritage, Hisham al Mathloum of the Art Collections of Sharjah, Mohamed Khalaf of Sharjah TV and Radio, Rashid al Kous of Knowledge Without Borders, Gamal al Shehi of the Emirates Publishers Association, Amani al Ali of the Executive Office of Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan al Qasimi and Marwa al Aqroubi, of the UAE Books for Young People.

The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Community Development has sponsored the participation of a selected group of writers, authors and publishers who will introduce the UAE’s values and heritage to both Thai and global readers. 

The Bangkok International Book Fair is at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre until April 6.