Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 Ends With Over One Million Visitors And Cultural Highlights

The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 concluded with a vibrant celebration of literature and culture. Over ten days, from September 26 to October 5, King Saud University hosted the event under the theme "Riyadh Reads." Qatar was honoured as the guest nation, contributing to a lively exchange of Arab creativity and culture.

Dr. Mohammed Hasan Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, noted the fair's success. He stated, "The Riyadh International Book Fair received a record-breaking turnout of over one million visitors, both from within the Kingdom and abroad." This event provided attendees access to diverse works from Arab authors and beyond.

The fair attracted over one million visitors, showcasing its significance in the Arab world. More than 2,000 publishing houses from over 30 countries participated. The exhibition featured 800 pavilions displaying tens of thousands of titles. Sales exceeded SAR28 million, highlighting its importance as a premier book fair in the region.

A specialised business zone was introduced at this year's fair. Literary agencies managing author contracts joined local printing presses for the first time. This area offered investment opportunities and led to agreements between authors and agencies, supporting Saudi Arabia's publishing industry.

The cultural program included over 200 activities for all ages. Seminars, panel discussions, poetry readings, and workshops were led by prominent writers from Saudi Arabia and worldwide. These events enriched cultural exchange and boosted the publishing industry.

A special tribute honoured Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen through a memorial corridor displaying his poetry. The fair also celebrated International Translation Day on September 30 with seminars dedicated to translation. Additionally, it marked the Year of the Camel with events exploring camels in language and poetry.

Engaging Family Activities

The children's zone was a major attraction with six theatrical performances and 48 cultural activities across nine themed corners. Families enjoyed areas like "Little Chef," "Fashion Design," and "Story-Making," making it popular among young visitors.

The Saudi Author's Corner initiative provided emerging Saudi authors a platform to showcase their self-published works. This helped young writers introduce their creativity to readers and mark their literary debut.

Dr. Alwan emphasised that the event promoted reading as a lifestyle while enhancing Saudi Arabia's cultural standing globally. It aligned with Vision 2030 objectives and contributed to societal awareness and quality of life improvements.

With inputs from SPA