Riyadh, October 07, 2024 — The Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission successfully concluded the Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 last night, marking the end of ten days filled with vibrant cultural activities. Hosted at King Saud University from September 26 to October 5 under the evocative slogan "Riyadh Reads," this year’s fair highlighted Qatar as the guest of honour, fostering a dynamic exchange of Arab creativity and culture.
Dr. Mohammed Hasan Alwan, CEO of the Commission, expressed immense pride in the event's accomplishments, noting a record-breaking attendance of over one million visitors, both local and international. He remarked, “The Riyadh International Book Fair provided an unparalleled opportunity for attendees to engage with the works of authors and creators from across the Arab world and beyond, thereby opening new doors to knowledge, thought, and literature.”
The fair not only showcased an impressive lineup of over 2,000 publishing houses and agencies from more than 30 countries across 800 pavilions but also featured tens of thousands of titles. With sales exceeding SAR 28 million, the fair solidified its status as one of the premier book fairs in the Arab world. This success has played a vital role in bolstering the Arab publishing movement and enhancing the competitiveness of Saudi publishers within the global market.
One of the standout features of this year’s fair was the introduction of a specialized business zone, where literary agencies managing author contracts collaborated with local printing presses. This new zone provided invaluable services to publishers for the first time, facilitating unique investment opportunities and resulting in several agreements between authors and literary agencies. Such initiatives are crucial for nurturing the Kingdom's publishing industry and supporting local writers.
The cultural program was equally robust, featuring over 200 activities designed for all ages. Highlights included seminars, panel discussions, poetry readings, and workshops led by prominent writers and intellectuals from Saudi Arabia and around the globe. These events not only enriched the publishing industry but also promoted cultural exchange, aligning seamlessly with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 objectives and the National Strategy for Culture, which aim to enhance societal awareness and quality of life.
A heartfelt tribute was paid to the late Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen, a celebrated figure in Saudi and Arab culture. A memorial corridor showcased his poetry and expressions of love for his homeland, underscoring the cultural significance of the fair. Additionally, the event marked International Translation Day on September 30 with dedicated seminars and workshops, while also celebrating the Year of the Camel through cultural activities exploring camels in language and poetry.
The children’s zone emerged as a major attraction, offering a variety of activities that captivated young visitors. It featured six theatrical performances and 48 cultural activities spread across nine themed corners, including engaging areas like “Little Chef,” “Fashion Design,” and “Story-Making.” This vibrant space became a central hub for families, fostering a love for reading and creativity among the youth.
Moreover, the Saudi Author's Corner initiative provided a platform for emerging Saudi authors to showcase their self-published works. This initiative was instrumental in helping young writers introduce their creativity to the reading public, marking significant milestones in their literary journeys.
Overall, the Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 has reaffirmed its status as a cornerstone of cultural exchange in the region, setting the stage for future literary endeavors while promoting reading as a fundamental lifestyle choice in Saudi Arabia.
