UAE: From preserving Arabic to tackling bullying, Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival brims with activities

UAE: From preserving Arabic to tackling bullying, Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival brims with activities

Sharjah: Observing two young women, one pushing a stroller with an infant, sifting through Arabic children’s books at the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival (SCRF), one might assume they were shopping for a school-aged child. However, sisters Hala and Farah, in their thirties, were selecting books for Hala’s eight-month-old daughter.

“I’m on the lookout for books with pictures and the Arabic alphabet,” Hala explained.

“We were both born and raised here, and have been visiting since we were children. Our mother nurtured our love of reading. Now that I’m a mother, I’m eager to instill the same passion in my daughter,” she continued.

“At this age, children are incredibly receptive; they soak up everything around them. I want her to grow up familiar with Arabic, so it becomes second nature when she starts to speak,” Hala added.

The Jordanian sisters are just two of the many visitors choosing Arabic publishers at the 15th edition of SCRF. With over 180 Arabic and international publishers, the festival has distinctly segregated the sections, fostering a deep appreciation for the Arabic language.

Preserving Arabic

His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, has been a