Inauguration of the Kingdom's pavilion at the Cairo International Book Fair 2026: Culture and Heritage
In a move reflecting the deep cultural ties between Riyadh and Cairo, the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission today inaugurated the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pavilion at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair. The inauguration ceremony was attended by Egyptian Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly and the Saudi Ambassador to Egypt, Saleh bin Eid Al-Hussaini. They were received by the CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, Dr. Abdul Latif bin Abdulaziz Al-Wasil. The fair runs from January 21 to February 3.
A rich history and a renewed presence
The Kingdom's participation in the Cairo International Book Fair, one of the oldest and most prestigious book fairs in the Middle East and the Arab world, is a continuation of a long history of intellectual and cultural exchange between the two brotherly nations. Saudi participation is not limited to showcasing publications; it also serves as a vital bridge for conveying the rapid cultural dynamism the Kingdom is witnessing under Vision 2030. Over the years, the Saudi pavilion has become a key platform for Arab intellectuals seeking to explore the latest Saudi intellectual and literary works.
Integration of cultural institutions
This year's participation is distinguished by the integration of the national cultural landscape, with the pavilion comprising ten government entities working harmoniously under a single umbrella led by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission. These entities include 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. This diversity reflects the comprehensiveness of Saudi cultural output, ranging from heritage manuscripts to contemporary literary criticism.
Strategic objectives and regional impact
Dr. Abdul Latif Al-Wasil emphasized that the Authority aims, through this international event, to enhance the global presence of Saudi creative talent and raise awareness of the Kingdom's cultural heritage as an integral component of Arab identity. He noted that the exhibition presents a strategic opportunity to forge partnerships between Saudi publishers and their counterparts from around the world, thus contributing to the support of the local publishing industry and opening new markets for Saudi books.
A cultural program that enriches the Arab scene
Alongside the book fair, the Authority has prepared a rich cultural program bringing together a select group of Saudi writers and intellectuals. The program includes a series of literary seminars, poetry readings, and panel discussions addressing issues of literature, translation, and criticism. This program aims to highlight the dynamism of the Saudi cultural movement and its impact on the Arab world, thereby strengthening the Kingdom's soft power and reaffirming its leading role in serving Arab and Islamic culture.
