Jeddah Book Fair 2025 in its final days
According to the Iran Book News Agency (IBNA), quoting Al Arabiya, the Jeddah International Book Fair 2025, which began on December 11th in Saudi Arabia and runs until December 20th, is currently in its final days, hosting a strong presence of publishers, writers, and book enthusiasts. This cultural event, held under the slogan “Jeddah Reads” and organized by the Saudi Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, has become one of the most important cultural happenings in the region due to its wide range of topics and participatory programs.
This edition of the fair features over 1,000 publishers and literary agencies from 24 countries, presenting their new publications in fields such as literature, humanities, children and youth, art, comics, and personal development. The fair’s booths are located in approximately 400 venues, providing visitors with direct access to books and opportunities to interact with authors.
The fair’s cultural program is extensive, including more than 170 diverse events. These programs are implemented through specialized sessions, discussion forums, workshops, activities specifically for children and youth, and artistic performances. Among the significant programs are 25 discussion sessions on topics such as contemporary literature and cultural identity, philosophy for the general public, writing biographies in the Arab world, civilizational dialogue, and the role of Islamic thought in cultural interaction.
Daily poetry nights featuring poets from different generations in both Nabati and Fasih styles are among the most popular sections of the fair. Specialized workshops in creative writing and graphic novels, focusing on Saudi manga and comics, have also attracted attention from the younger generation and enthusiasts of visual arts.
A tangible example of the exhibited works is the book “50 Rules That Illuminate Your Life” in the personal development field, which has been well-received by visitors at the Saudi Self-Development Library section, demonstrating audience interest in self-help and lifestyle books. This example reflects the fair’s efforts to respond to diverse audience tastes and showcase a variety of genres, themes, and literary styles.
The children and youth section of the fair, with interactive activities, creative workshops, and educational programs, plays an important role in promoting reading culture and strengthening children’s linguistic and creative skills. Furthermore, book signing booths and meetings with authors provide an opportunity for readers to directly connect with their favorite authors, creating a lively cultural interaction experience.
Besides offering books, the fair has become a space for dialogue, exchange of ideas, and enhancement of cultural and social awareness. According to organizers and cultural activists present, the Jeddah Book Fair 2025 is more than just a book sales event; it is a platform for connection between generations, strengthening cultural identity, and direct audience interaction with authors and publishers.
In addition to cultural and artistic programs, sections like discounted books, illustrated works, the personal development book section, and introductions to international new releases expand visitors’ choices and give the fair a festive atmosphere.
The Jeddah International Book Fair 2025 continues until December 20th, and enthusiasts still have the opportunity to attend its cultural programs, workshops, and various sections, benefiting from the experience of participating in one of the region’s most important literary and cultural events.