The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 is set to take place from September 26 to October 5 at King Saud University in Riyadh, organized by the Literature, Publishing & Translation Commission. With over 2,000 local, Arab, and international publishing houses and agencies from more than 30 countries participating in the fair, it is expected to be one of the most important international cultural events in the Arab world. The guest of honor this year is Qatar, showcasing their cultural and intellectual heritage through a special pavilion with rare manuscripts and publications from the Qatari Ministry of Culture.
Dr. Muhammad Alwan, CEO of the Commission, emphasized the importance of the Riyadh International Book Fair as a key cultural event in the region that embodies the vision of Saudi Arabia’s leadership in promoting culture. The selection of Qatar as the guest of honor for this edition highlights the strong cultural and historical ties between the two countries, allowing visitors to the fair to explore Qatari achievements in various cultural fields. The fair offers a unique cultural and cognitive journey for book and culture lovers, incorporating the latest technologies and digital solutions to showcase thousands of new publications and titles across various fields.
Known as one of the largest and most distinguished book fairs in the Arab world, the Riyadh International Book Fair is highly valued by the local and Arab cultural community. The fair features a diverse cultural program that reflects Saudi Arabia’s rich cultural heritage, with over 200 events suitable for all age groups and a variety of cognitive and intellectual activities that promote reading culture and encourage creativity. This year’s edition includes a business zone for literary agencies and local printing presses, as well as pavilions for government and financing agencies related to the publishing sector.
The Riyadh International Book Fair dedicates a significant area to children, offering numerous literary, cultural, and entertainment activities and competitions to nurture the creative abilities of young readers. Book signing platforms provide an opportunity for book lovers to meet their favorite authors, receive special gifts, and purchase the latest releases. The pavilions of participating governmental and private cultural and intellectual bodies, community institutions, and universities showcase their latest releases and cultural initiatives, adding to the diversity and richness of the fair.
Overall, the Riyadh International Book Fair serves as a crucial platform for cultural exchange and intellectual engagement, bringing together writers, thinkers, and intellectuals from around the world. With a focus on promoting reading culture, encouraging creativity, and highlighting cultural achievements, the fair provides a unique opportunity for visitors to explore new publications, engage with authors, and celebrate the richness of Arab culture. By incorporating the latest technologies and digital solutions, the fair continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of the publishing industry, establishing itself as a key event in the global cultural calendar.
