The announcement ceremony, held during the IPA 2026 Gala Dinner, saw the International Publishers Association (IPA) pass its official flag to representatives from the United Arab Emirates. H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Founder and Honorary President of the Emirates Publishers Association, accepted the hosting rights on behalf of Sharjah, emphasizing the emirate's role as a bridge for cultural dialogue and the free exchange of ideas.

Organized by the Emirates Publishers Association in collaboration with the IPA, the 2028 Congress aims to address the shifting landscape of the global book market. The program will tackle complex industry challenges, including the integration of artificial intelligence, the protection of intellectual property, and strategies for sustainable business growth. By hosting the event, the UAE seeks to bolster its domestic publishing ecosystem, offering local professionals direct access to international peers, rights trading, and translation partnerships.