Cairo International Book Fair

The Cairo International Book Fair is a prominent cultural event held annually in Cairo, Egypt, and stands as the largest and oldest book fair in the Arab world. Organized by the General Egyptian Book Organization, this event is a cornerstone of the Arabic publishing industry. Each year, it attracts hundreds of booksellers from around the globe and approximately two million visitors, making it one of the largest book fairs worldwide. Cairo-based publishers, who produce a substantial portion of Arabic language books, play a crucial role in this event. The fair features a variety of booths, speakers, and events in multiple languages, aiming to cater to a diverse audience.

Since its inception in 1969, the fair has experienced its share of controversies. In recent years, it has faced criticism for banning certain authors and works that are critical of the government, leading to protests and arrests. The 2011 fair was canceled due to the Egyptian revolution, but it made a comeback the following year with a focus on themes related to the Arab Spring. The fair is more than just a marketplace for books; it also hosts new book launches, seminars, poetry recitals, and performances, celebrating cultural diversity and freedom of expression.

Despite the challenges and controversies, the Cairo International Book Fair continues to be a significant platform for the exchange of ideas, literature, and cultural engagement in the Arab world.