ATypI 2026 Sharjah will take place 28–31 October 2026 at the University of Sharjah. ATypI 2026 Sharjah will mark the first ATypI conference in the Middle East.
Sharjah, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is known for its vibrant art sector, and is globally respected for both the heritage and the future of Arabic calligraphy: the Emirate conserves the world’s most significant collection of Arabic manuscripts. At the University, typography including type design, visual communication and publishing are popular courses in the Department of Applied Design, within the College of Fine Art and Design.
Sharjah, a UNESCO Cultural Capital and a hub for knowledge and heritage, offers a rich platform for this global gathering of typographic minds. The UAE’s multinational residency ensures engaging and rewarding experience bridging the divide among various languages.
Sharjah is the host for the Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF), one of the world’s largest book fairs, inaugurated in 1982, as well as the Sharjah Calligraphy Biennial since 2004. In 2026 the Biennial is expected to coincide with the ATypI conference.