Riyadh Book Fair 2024 to highlight Qatar as guest of honor, featuring Over 2,000 publishers

The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024, one of the largest and most anticipated cultural events in the Arab world, is set to take place from September 26 to October 5 at King Saud University. 

Organized by the Literature, Publishing & Translation Commission, the fair will host over 2,000 local, Arab, and international publishers from more than 30 countries, spread across 800 pavilions.

Qatar has been chosen as the guest of honor for this year’s edition, showcasing the country’s rich cultural and intellectual heritage. A special pavilion will feature rare manuscripts and key publications from the Qatari Ministry of Culture, allowing visitors to explore the nation’s literary and artistic achievements. Highlighting the cultural ties between Saudi Arabia and Qatar, Dr. Muhammad Alwan, CEO of the Commission, noted that this partnership “allows for reviewing the strong cultural and historical ties between the two brotherly countries.”

Dr. Alwan emphasized the significance of the fair, stating, “The Book Fair offers its visitors, who are lovers of culture and books, an innovative cultural and cognitive journey that keeps pace with and employs the latest technologies and digital solutions.” The event reflects Saudi Arabia’s commitment to promoting cultural exchange and its growing influence on the Arab cultural scene.

In addition to a diverse program of over 200 events, this year’s fair will introduce several new features, including a business zone for literary agencies, printing presses, and financing agencies, aiming to enhance the publishing industry’s growth. A special area dedicated to children will offer literary, cultural, and entertainment activities, nurturing creativity among young attendees.

The fair will also provide book lovers with the opportunity to meet their favorite authors at book signing platforms and discover thousands of new publications and titles across various genres.