Saudi Arabia is the guest of honor at the Damascus International Book Fair 2026, under the leadership of the Literature Authority
The Saudi Commission for Literature, Publishing and Translation continues its tireless efforts to enhance the cultural presence of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on both the regional and international stages. The Commission is leading the Kingdom's pavilion as the guest of honor at the 2026 Damascus International Book Fair . This distinguished participation is scheduled to take place from February 6th to 16th, marking a pivotal moment in the history of cultural relations between the two brotherly nations.
Cultural and historical dimensions of Saudi participation
The participation of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia as guest of honor at this prestigious event is of exceptional importance, given the historical significance of the Damascus International Book Fair in the Arab cultural consciousness. This step underscores the depth of fraternal ties and embodies the Kingdom's commitment to supporting Arab cultural recovery and rebuilding intellectual bridges with the dear Syrian people. The Kingdom's selection as guest of honor is not merely a diplomatic gesture, but rather a recognition of the cultural and literary weight that Saudi Arabia has come to represent on the Arab scene, and a reflection of the unprecedented intellectual dynamism witnessed in the Kingdom's cities.
A rich cultural program reflecting Saudi identity
The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission designed a comprehensive cultural program that will run throughout the exhibition, aiming to highlight the diversity of the Kingdom's cultural identity and showcase its rich literary and intellectual output. The program includes:
- Dialogue and intellectual seminars: Discussing contemporary literature issues, publishing challenges, and translation prospects, with the participation of a select group of leading Saudi intellectuals and writers.
- Poetry evenings: Celebrating classical and Nabati Arabic poetry, showcasing the aesthetics and development of Saudi language.
- New Releases Offers: Allows the Syrian public to view the latest publications produced by Saudi printing presses in various fields of knowledge.
National Culture Strategy and Vision 2030
This significant participation falls within a broader context led by the Saudi Ministry of Culture to achieve the goals of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 , specifically regarding the National Culture Strategy, which aims to make culture a way of life and promote global cultural exchange. Through this presence, the Authority seeks to showcase Saudi creativity and empower Saudi writers to access new platforms, thus contributing to enriching intercultural dialogue and expanding the horizons of positive interaction with the Arab public.
Promising future impact
This participation is expected to open new channels of cooperation between Saudi and Syrian publishers and revitalize translation and joint publishing. It also presents a valuable opportunity for the Arab public in Damascus to rediscover the vibrant Saudi cultural scene, which blends authentic heritage with modern approaches, thus reaffirming the Kingdom's leading role and active part in shaping the future of culture in the region.
