The Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF) is one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year, but the 2025 edition comes with a blockbuster announcement: Hollywood superstar Will Smith is taking the main stage. As excitement builds, information can feel scattered across news articles, social media, and official websites. Are you trying to figure out the exact time he’s speaking? Confused about how to register for your free ticket? Feeling overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the event and wondering what else there is to do?
You can stop searching. This is your single, all-in-one practical guide to experiencing the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025. We have consolidated every crucial detail—from Will Smith’s confirmed schedule and a step-by-step registration guide to a full breakdown of the fair’s other incredible activities and essential logistical information. Get ready to plan your perfect visit with confidence and ensure you don’t miss a single highlight.
The Main Event: See Will Smith Live at SIBF 2025
The biggest draw for many visitors this year is the special session with the iconic actor, producer, and author Will Smith. Here is everything you need to know, confirmed and in one place, to plan for this can’t-miss event.
In a statement about his appearance, Khoula Al Mujaini, General Coordinator of SIBF, said, “Welcoming a global creative icon like Will Smith reflects SIBF’s vision of celebrating art and creativity. His remarkable journey spans cinema, acting, music, singing, and creative writing, embodying our mission to honour all forms of artistic expression that inspire imagination, raise awareness, and open new pathways to knowledge.”
Key Information at a Glance:
- Event: A Special Talk with Will Smith
- Date: Friday, November 14, 2025
- Time: 8:00 PM
- Location: Main Stage, Expo Centre Sharjah
- Cost: Free with general admission to the book fair (registration required)
Confirmed Date and Time: When and Where to See Will Smith
Mark your calendars and set your reminders. Will Smith is confirmed to take the stage on Friday, November 14, 2025, at 8:00 PM on the main stage of the Expo Centre Sharjah. This information has been verified through official announcements from the Sharjah International Book Fair and reported by leading regional news outlets like Gulf News, ensuring you have the most accurate details for your visit.
What to Expect: Storytelling, Self-Discovery, and His Memoir ‘Will’
This won’t just be a celebrity appearance; it will be a deep dive into the art of storytelling from a master of the craft. Will Smith is expected to share profound insights from his life and career, focusing on themes of self-discovery, discovering your own path, and the power of the written word.
Much of the discussion will likely draw from his best-selling memoir, Will, co-written with Mark Manson, which offers a candid look at his personal and professional journey. In a previous appearance at the fair, Smith captivated a massive crowd with discussions on “self-discovery, the power of reading, and overcoming fear,” giving a glimpse into the inspiring and thought-provoking nature of his talks. Beyond his memoir, Smith has also authored the children’s book Just the Two of Us, showcasing his diverse contributions to the literary world.
Your Essential SIBF 2025 Planning Toolkit
A successful visit to a massive event like SIBF is all about planning. This toolkit consolidates all the practical, logistical information you need, solving the common challenges of registration, scheduling, and transportation so you can focus on enjoying the experience.
Step-by-Step: How to Register for Free Entry
One of the most common questions is about cost, and the great news is that entry to the Sharjah International Book Fair—including Will Smith’s session—is completely free. However, online registration is mandatory for all visitors.
Here’s how to secure your spot:
- Visit the Official Portal: Navigate to the official SIBF registration website.
- Fill in Your Details: Complete the simple registration form with the required information.
- Receive Your E-Ticket: Once submitted, you will receive an electronic entry pass. Keep this handy on your phone or as a printout for easy access to the venue.
Register for SIBF 2025 on the Sharjah International Book Fair Official Website
Registering also gives you access to the official SIBF mobile app, which is an invaluable tool for your visit. It allows you to receive notifications about author signings, view interactive maps, and scan books you’re interested in.
SIBF 2025 at a Glance: Dates, Timings, and Location
Here is the foundational information every visitor needs:
- Event Dates: Wednesday, November 5 to Sunday, November 16, 2025.
- Venue Location: Expo Centre Sharjah, Al Khalidiya District, Sharjah, UAE.
- Daily Timings:
- Sunday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Thursday & Saturday: 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM
- Friday: 4:00 PM to 11:00 PM
For more details on the venue itself, you can visit the official Expo Centre Sharjah Venue Information.
Getting to the Expo Centre Sharjah: A Complete Transport Guide
Navigating to a major event can be a challenge, but the Sharjah Book Authority (SBA) has made it easier than ever with several convenient and free transportation options.
Driving and Parking Information
If you plan to drive, the Expo Centre Sharjah is easily accessible via major highways. Ample parking is available at the venue, but for a high-profile event like the Will Smith session, it is highly recommended to arrive early to secure a spot. For the most up-to-date parking information, check the Expo Centre’s official website.
Free Shuttle Bus Services from Dubai & Ajman
To make the fair more accessible for visitors from neighboring emirates, the SBA provides free daily shuttle bus services. These buses typically run from key locations in Dubai and Ajman directly to the Expo Centre Sharjah. Check the official SIBF website closer to the event date for the finalized schedule and pickup points.
Unique Marine Transport & Boat Services
For a truly unique and scenic journey, take advantage of the free marine transport options. The SBA offers boat transfers from popular Sharjah locations like the Sharjah Aquarium and Al Qasba. There is also an FR5 marine transport service from Dubai. This is a fantastic way to avoid road traffic and enjoy beautiful views on your way to the fair.
Beyond Will Smith: What Else to Do at the Sharjah International Book Fair
While Will Smith is a major highlight, he is just one part of an enormous cultural festival. The SIBF is one of the largest book fairs in the world, attracting over 2.17 million visitors and featuring more than 2,000 publishers from around the globe. With over 1,700 activities packed into 12 days, there is truly something for everyone.
For the Family: Children’s Workshops & Live Entertainment
SIBF is an incredibly family-friendly event. A dedicated children’s section offers a packed schedule of hands-on workshops, engaging stage shows, live entertainment, and meet-and-greets with beloved children’s authors. It’s the perfect place to inspire a lifelong love of reading in young ones.
For the Foodie: The International Cookery Corner
The Cookery Corner is one of the fair’s most popular attractions. Here, top chefs, renowned food writers, and talented home cooks from around the world bring their recipes to life in live cooking demonstrations. It’s a vibrant and delicious celebration of the intersection of food and culture.
For Aspiring Writers & Professionals: Conferences and Workshops
For those in the literary industry or aspiring to be, SIBF offers invaluable networking and learning opportunities. The annual Publishers’ Conference brings together professionals from across the globe, while a wide range of workshops on creative writing, translation, and digital publishing provides a platform for skill development. These programs are organized by the Sharjah Book Authority, the overarching entity behind the fair’s success.
Meet Your Favorite Authors: Book Signings and Guest Talks
Beyond the main stage, the fair hosts hundreds of authors from dozens of countries. Past guest lists have included literary giants like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Carlo Rovelli. Visitors have the chance to attend intimate talks, participate in panel discussions, and, most excitingly, meet their favorite authors face-to-face during book signing sessions. Be sure to check the official SIBF schedule for a full list of attending authors and their signing times.
SIBF 2025 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a separate ticket required to see Will Smith?
No. As confirmed by reports in outlets like Gulf News, the session with Will Smith is included with the free general admission to the book fair. Seating will likely be on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early is strongly advised.
Will Will Smith be signing autographs?
There has been no official announcement regarding an autograph session with Will Smith. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, please check the official SIBF schedule on their website or app closer to the date of the event.
What does SIBF stand for?
SIBF stands for the Sharjah International Book Fair.
What is the theme for SIBF 2025?
The theme for the 44th edition of the Sharjah International Book Fair is ‘Between You and a Book’.
Your Story at SIBF 2025 Awaits
From the star power of Will Smith’s can’t-miss session on November 14th to the thousands of books and hundreds of activities waiting to be discovered, the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 promises an unforgettable experience. The key to it all is planning, and with this guide, you now have all the information you need to navigate the event with ease.
Don’t miss out! Register now for your free ticket to the Sharjah International Book Fair 2025 and mark your calendar for Will Smith’s special appearance on November 14th.
Event details such as dates, times, and guest appearances are subject to change. Please verify all information on the official Sharjah International Book Fair website before your visit.
Sources
- Sharjah International Book Fair. (N.D.). Hollywood superstar Will Smith captivates a packed auditorium at SIBF 2023. SIBF.com. Retrieved from https://www.sibf.com/en/news/details/Hollywood-superstar-Will-Smith-captivates-a-packed-auditorium-at-SIBF-2023
- Gulf News. (N.D.). Sharjah International Book Fair 2023: Will Smith to attend, how to register for free. Retrieved from https://gulfnews.com/your-uae/things-to-do/sharjah-international-book-fair-2023-will-smith-to-attend-how-to-register-for-free-1.1699862891154
- Sharjah Book Authority. (N.D.). SIBF 2023 concludes on a high note, attracting 2.17 million visitors from 109 countries. sba.gov.ae. Retrieved from https://sba.gov.ae/en/news/details/SIBF-2023-concludes-on-a-high-note-attracting-2.17-million-visitors-from-109-countries
- Khaleej Times. (N.D.). Sharjah book fair to let visitors play detectives, take ‘poetry pills’ in new activities. Retrieved from https://www.khaleejtimes.com/uae/sharjah-international-book-fair-2025-new-activities
