Jeddah Book Fair to spotlight fast-growing Saudi literary sector
The annual event aims to strengthen the Kingdom’s cultural ecosystem and expand its role as a regional publishing hub
JEDDAH, Saudi Arabia (MNTV) — Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission is set to launch the Jeddah Book Fair from December 11 to 20 at the Jeddah Superdome, bringing together more than 1,000 publishing houses and agencies from 24 countries across 400 exhibition stands.
Held under the banner “Jeddah Reads,” the fair forms part of the broader “Saudi Reads” initiative, which seeks to cultivate a vibrant reading culture and deepen engagement between Saudi authors and their audiences.
Commission CEO Dr. Abdullatif Al-Wasil said the event reflects the Kingdom’s widening cultural ambitions and the rapid expansion of its publishing and translation industries.
He noted that the fair will feature a suite of interactive programs aimed at writers, translators, publishers, and the general public, designed to elevate content standards, support creative talent, and build long-term knowledge partnerships.
This year’s edition includes more than 170 cultural events inspired by Saudi heritage, ranging from lectures and panel discussions to specialized workshops.
A dedicated children’s section will provide educational and recreational activities, along with competitions to spark early interest in reading.
Prominent Saudi and international writers, academics, and cultural figures will participate across the 10-day program, which spans literary, scientific, and intellectual themes.
Book-signing platforms will allow readers to meet authors, while universities, cultural foundations, and community groups will showcase new publications and ongoing initiatives.
The fair will also feature a manga and anime zone highlighting collectibles and themed literature, as well as a discounted books section to broaden access for readers.
Emerging Saudi writers will again be supported through the Saudi Authors’ Corner, a space dedicated to self-published authors presenting their latest works — underscoring the fair’s role in amplifying local voices and strengthening the Kingdom’s literary evolution.
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