SHARJAH CHILDREN`S READING FESTIVAL 2026

Sharjah Children's Reading Festival 2026: A Gateway to Wonder and Wisdom (Apr 22 - May 3, 2026)

Mark your calendars for the much-anticipated Sharjah Children's Reading Festival (SCRF) 2026, set to transform the emirate into a vibrant hub of imagination and learning from April 22nd to May 3rd, 2026. Hosted in the cultural heart of the UAE, Sharjah, this internationally acclaimed festival promises an unforgettable journey into the world of books and creativity for children, teens, families, and educators alike.

Under the visionary patronage of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Muhammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, SCRF 2026 will once again embody the emirate's unwavering commitment to fostering a love for reading and nurturing young minds. As a cornerstone event celebrating Sharjah's status as the UNESCO World Book Capital, the festival will offer a meticulously curated program designed to inspire, educate, and entertain.

Expect a Rich Tapestry of Experiences:

Star-Studded Lineup: Festival-goers will have the unique opportunity to meet and interact with renowned authors, illustrators, poets, and storytellers from across the globe. Engaging sessions, panel discussions, and book signings will bring literary heroes to life.
Interactive Workshops & Activities: Dive into hands-on creativity! SCRF 2026 will feature a diverse range of workshops covering everything from storytelling techniques and illustration skills to drama, puppetry, creative writing, and even introductory coding – blending traditional literacy with modern STEAM concepts.
Captivating Performances: Prepare to be mesmerized by live storytelling sessions, enchanting puppet shows, captivating theatrical performances, and musical acts designed to spark joy and ignite the imagination.
Themed Pavilions & Exhibitions: Explore dedicated zones celebrating different genres, cultures, and themes. Discover new books from leading local and international publishers, browse unique literary merchandise, and immerse yourself in interactive exhibitions.
Competitions & Challenges: Foster healthy competition and skill development with exciting contests in reading, spelling, creative writing, illustration, and more, offering participants a chance to win exciting prizes.
Family Fun Zone: A dedicated area ensures younger children have a blast with age-appropriate activities, play areas, and simple craft sessions, making the festival a perfect family outing.

Why Sharjah?

Sharjah provides the perfect backdrop for this literary extravaganza. Known as the "Cultural Capital of the Arab World," its state-of-the-art venues, family-friendly atmosphere, and deep-rooted appreciation for knowledge create an ideal environment for nurturing young readers. The festival's free admission policy further emphasizes its commitment to accessibility and community engagement.

Plan Your Visit:

The Sharjah Children's Reading Festival 2026 will be held at the Expo Centre Sharjah, easily accessible from across the emirate. With a sprawling schedule spanning 12 days, there's ample time to explore, participate, and discover the magic of reading. Whether you're a parent seeking enriching activities, an educator looking for resources, or a young reader eager to explore new worlds, SCRF 2026 promises a transformative experience. Prepare to embark on a magical journey where stories come alive and the joy of reading takes center stage. Don't miss this cornerstone event in the global literary calendar!