Cairo International Book Fair 2024

The Cairo International Book Fair stands as a major cultural event in the Middle East. Since its inception in 2006, it has consistently held the position of the world’s second-largest book fair, only eclipsed by Frankfurt’s esteemed counterpart. Each year, it draws roughly 2 million visitors, making it a significant literary event.

This book fair began in 1969, coinciding with Cairo’s millennium celebration. The Minister of Culture at the time, Tharwat Okasha, had the vision to create a grand cultural event. He entrusted Suhair Al-Qalamawi, a notable writer and researcher, with organizing the first Cairo International Book Fair. In honor of Al-Qalamawi’s crucial role, the 2008 fair recognized her as the Person of the Year.

Over time, the fair has evolved. Traditionally held during the mid-year school break, it used to conclude at the end of January at Nasr City’s Exhibition Grounds. However, by 2019, the event transitioned to the Egypt International Exhibition Center, situated in the burgeoning New Cairo. The fair now runs for 12 days, attracting publishers from the Arab world and beyond.

A key highlight of the Cairo International Book Fair is its diverse offerings. Beyond the vast selection of books, the fair includes cultural seminars, cinema screenings, theater performances, art exhibitions, and music concerts. This variety ensures the fair appeals to a wide range of interests and artistic tastes.

The fair’s influence goes beyond literature. It fosters cultural exchange and ignites intellectual dialogues. It offers a platform for diverse writers, publishers, and artists. With its rich heritage, the Cairo International Book Fair remains a key center for Middle Eastern literature and culture.

The fair takes place at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in New Cairo, from January 25 to February 6. Operating hours are from 10 am to 8 pm daily, extending to 9 pm on Thursdays and Fridays. Tickets are priced at EGP 5, and available on the fair’s official website and at the door. The fair encompasses five halls over 80,000 square meters, hosting 1,200 publishing houses from 70 countries and 5,250 exhibitors. This year’s guest country is Norway, with Egyptologist Salim Hassan and children’s book novelist Yaqub Sharuni honored as Persons of the Year. The program features 500 events.

Please, visit the Cairo International Book Fair's official website for all the details and to get your tickets.

Source: Riyadh Review of books