Residents of the United Arab Emirates heading to the Sharjah International Book Fair can now use a ferry service from Dubai. Furthermore, work on several roads leading to the Sharjah Expo Centre has been completed ahead of the event on November 4.
Authorities responsible for implementing initiatives and the Sharjah Roads and Transport Department have announced the readiness of the road infrastructure serving the exhibition complex. These measures aim to improve traffic flow and facilitate visitor access to the fair. A map provided by the department indicates access routes around Al Corniche Road and Al Ittihad Road, near which landmarks such as Al Arab Mall and Industrial Area 7 are located. This road preparation is being carried out in anticipation of the fair in 2026.
For guests arriving from Dubai, the ferry offers an alternative to traveling between the emirates. The Sharjah Transport Authority confirmed to Khaleej Times that the ferry is operating this year. Route FR5 connects Al Ghubaitah Marine Station in Dubai with the Sharjah Aquarium Marine Station. Passengers will need to transfer further from the marine station to the Sharjah Expo Centre.
According to the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), the one-way ticket price for adults is 15 dirhams for Silver Class and 25 dirhams for Gold Class. Children under five and people with disabilities travel free. The Al Ghubaitah station is accessible via public transport and the Dubai Green Line Metro, allowing visitors to reach the ferry without needing to drive to the station.
Tickets can be purchased using a Nol card or at the ticket offices at the marine station. Passengers are advised to arrive 15 minutes before departure and check the current ferry schedule, as it may change. The 45th Sharjah International Book Fair will take place from November 4 to 15 at the Sharjah Expo Centre. The event is held under the slogan 'Made of Stories,' and Oman will be the guest of honor this year.
According to the Sharjah Book Fair Authority, the fair will host 2673 publishers and exhibitors from 124 countries, with 1500 cultural and artistic events planned. Visitors can enjoy literary discussions, children's workshops, theatrical performances, and culinary art demonstrations. New attractions include the 'Poets' Corner,' where personal stories will be transformed into poems in Arabic and English, and the 'Future Hands Area'—an interactive space introducing children to various professions. The program will also feature 106 writers, artists, and intellectuals from 25 countries.
