WARSAW — Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi has unveiled the Polish translation of her book Let Them Know She Is Here: Searching for the Queen of Mleiha during an event held alongside Sharjah’s participation as Guest of Honour at the Warsaw International Book Fair 2026.
The Polish edition has been published by Warsaw-based publishing house Sonia Draga Sp. z o.o. and marks the latest international release of the work, which explores the archaeological and historical landscape of Mleiha in Sharjah.
The launch event took place at Księgarnia Korekty bookstore in the Polish capital and drew readers, publishers, cultural figures and media representatives. Discussions focused on literature, translation and the role of storytelling in fostering dialogue between cultures.
During the programme, Al Qasimi read an excerpt from the book in English, followed by publisher Sonia Draga, who presented the same passage in Polish, offering audiences a glimpse into a narrative that weaves together history, memory and identity.
Speaking at the event, Al Qasimi described the book as an effort to recover overlooked chapters of regional history.
“This work is an invocation, a sacred weaving of memory and myth to trace the footsteps of those who walked long before us,” she said. “Let Them Know She Is Here brings to light a forgotten history of ancient Arab queens whose sovereignty was etched into the mountains, sands and coins of Mleiha.”
She said she hoped the Polish edition would introduce readers to a lesser-known aspect of Arab heritage while encouraging greater cultural understanding.
“In a world that moves too quickly and often simplifies our narratives, literature asks us to slow down and listen,” she said. “A journey that begins in Sharjah and finds its next chapter in Warsaw reminds us that when we look beyond the surface, we often discover a shared human essence.”
The book combines personal reflection with historical inquiry, taking readers through the archaeological discoveries of Mleiha while examining the role of women in early history and the connections between place, memory and cultural identity.
The release forms part of broader efforts by Sharjah to promote cultural exchange through literature and translation. Organisers said the publication expands the international reach of Emirati writing and introduces new audiences to stories rooted in the UAE’s history.
Following the launch, Al Qasimi met readers and signed copies of the book as part of Sharjah’s cultural programme at the Warsaw International Book Fair, which is being held under the theme, “Two Civilisations. One Language of Letters.”
