Al Musallam: SINF celebrates global tales of travelers

"Tales of Travelers" as a unifying theme

Dr Al Musallam explained that the theme of the Silver Jubilee, “Tales of Travelers,” captures the timeless relationship between travel and storytelling. He noted that the opening ceremony honoured two distinguished individuals: His Excellency Mohammed Al Murr, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Library Foundation, as the honorary personality of the forum. Al Murr is recognised as a writer, intellectual, and traveler. Also honoured was Claudia Maria Treso, the forum’s public figure, known for translating Ibn Battuta’s journey into Latin and for authoring an Arabic-Italian dictionary.

Celebrating oral storytelling traditions

In statements to Sharjah 24, Al Musallam emphasised that the forum brings together associations, institutions, organisations, and universities that focus on oral storytelling traditions. The forum showcases over 40 publications centered on travel literature and features workshops that explore modern technologies—including the use of artificial intelligence to build characters in oral narratives.

Innovation through technology and art

A key attraction is the "Conversation with Ibn Battuta" corner, where the legendary traveler delivers a message using hologram technology. The forum also features live performances by the renowned Czech puppet theater, blending heritage storytelling with artistic expression.

A global gathering of storytellers

Dr Al Musallam concluded by highlighting that the 25th edition of the forum brings together storytellers from across the globe, presenting a wide array of narratives from Africa, Southeast Asia, the Arab world, and Europe, all united by a shared passion for storytelling.