Saudi Arabia at the Cairo International Book Fair 2026: Participation of 10 government entities
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is preparing for a significant cultural presence at 57th Cairo International Book Fair in 2026 the Saudi Commission for Literature, Publishing and Translation a broad national participation that includes 10 government entities. The Egyptian General Book Organization is scheduled to organize this prominent cultural event from January 21st to February 3rd, providing a platform for leading thinkers and literary figures from around the world.
Enhancing Saudi Arabia's cultural presence regionally and internationally
The CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Wasil, affirmed that this participation is a culmination of the Commission's ongoing efforts to solidify the Kingdom's position on the international cultural map. He explained that the goal is not limited to mere participation, but extends to showcasing the rich Saudi cultural heritage and emphasizing the Kingdom's leading role in shaping the global cultural landscape, in line with the national objectives for the cultural sector.
The importance of the Cairo exhibition and the depth of Saudi-Egyptian relations
The Cairo International Book Fair holds exceptional importance as one of the oldest and most prestigious book fairs in the Middle East and the world, serving as a major cultural platform for intellectual exchange. The extensive Saudi participation reflects the depth of the historical and strategic relations between the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the Arab Republic of Egypt, particularly in the cultural and intellectual spheres. These events serve as a vital bridge for exchanging expertise and fostering dialogue between intellectuals from the two brotherly nations, thus enriching the Arabic library with high-quality and distinctive content.
Supporting the publishing industry and building partnerships
In the context of supporting the cultural economy, Dr. Al-Wasil explained that the Authority has dedicated all its resources to enabling Saudi publishing houses to have a strong presence at international book fairs. The strategic plan for participation aims to:
- Marketing Saudi literary and intellectual output globally.
- Establishing strategic partnerships with prestigious international publishing houses.
- Attracting international publishers to participate in book fairs held within the Kingdom.
- Supporting Saudi literary agencies for exporting rights and translation.
Participating entities and the cultural program
This year's Saudi participation is distinguished by the diversity of the Kingdom's representatives, reflecting the comprehensiveness of its cultural activities. In addition to the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance, the King Salman Global Academy for the Arabic Language, the Saudi Cultural Attaché in Egypt, the King Abdulaziz Public Library, the King Fahd National Library, the King Fahd Complex for Printing the Holy Qur'an, the Arab Observatory for Translation, the Saudi Laboratory for Criticism, and the Publishing Association are all participating.
The Authority has also prepared a rich cultural program to accompany the exhibition, which includes a selection of Saudi writers and intellectuals who will hold intellectual seminars, poetry evenings, and dialogue sessions, which will enhance the effectiveness of the Saudi presence and open new horizons for cultural dialogue with the exhibition’s broad audience.
