Riyadh Reads French Initiative Enriches Cultural Experience At International Book Fair 2024

The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 saw the return of the "Riyadh Reads French" initiative, which was first introduced last year. This initiative attracted numerous French publishers specialising in diverse fields and drew a large crowd to the event. The French Embassy's communication officer in Saudi Arabia, Alsaeed Ezz, noted that this year's edition aimed to enhance the experience with a special focus on children.

Over 25,000 books were displayed in the pavilions, with participation from 118 French publishing houses. The Alliance Francaise in Riyadh offered free French language courses to visitors, aiming to bring the French language and culture closer to Saudis and all attendees. Ezz mentioned that a dedicated section for children was created due to the high turnout of families with children last year.

The expansion aimed to meet children's needs and knowledge aspirations. Specialised supervisors provided activities like drawing, reading, and expression to introduce young visitors to French culture. This effort was part of a broader strategy to engage families and make the fair more inclusive for younger audiences.

Campus France played a significant role by facilitating registration procedures for studying in French universities and educational institutions. They collaborated with Saudi authorities to introduce scholarship programs available for studies in both English and French. Information on obtaining bachelor's and master's degrees and conducting research across various fields was also shared.

This year's book fair featured over 2,000 publishing houses and agencies from Saudi Arabia, the region, and worldwide. These participants occupied 800 pavilions representing more than 30 countries. The event highlighted its regional and international significance by showcasing a diverse range of literary works.

The Alliance Francaise's efforts included offering free language courses at the fair. This initiative aimed to bridge cultural gaps by making French language learning accessible to all visitors. By doing so, they hoped to foster greater understanding between cultures through language.

The "Riyadh Reads French" initiative not only promoted literature but also facilitated educational opportunities through Campus France. By collaborating with local authorities, they provided insights into scholarship programs and academic requirements for studying abroad.

The Riyadh International Book Fair continues to be a major cultural event, attracting global attention with its diverse offerings. The inclusion of initiatives like "Riyadh Reads French" underscores its commitment to promoting cross-cultural understanding through literature.

With inputs from SPA