HE Dr. Khalid Omar Al Midfa, Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams), highlighted the significance behind the historic celebration in Sharjah this year, after being named by UNESCO as the World Book Capital 2019, regarded as one of the world’s most prestigious cultural accolades.

World Book Capital was launched by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO in 2001. Sharjah is the first city in the GCC to be bestowed with this recognition.

Chairman of Sharjah Media City (Shams) said: “We are proud of the high quality cultural and artistic celebrations, activities and initiatives being organized across the Emirate of Sharjah, drawing participation from all the authorities and entities in the Emirates and from all segments of communities: residents and visitors, alike, and in the presence of a large number of regional and international cultural figures, such as writers, poets, playwrights, intellectuals and pressmen coming together to promote the six themes for the celebration; Inclusivity, Reading, Heritage, Children, Outreach and Publishing”.

H.E. Dr. Khalid Omar Al Midfa said that the acknowledgement by UNESCO is a recognition of the series of outstanding cultural achievements which were made possible due to the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah.