The Cairo International Book Fair 2025 is a prominent cultural event that is awaited annually by lovers of literature and culture. Held this year at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in the Fifth Settlement from 23 January to 5 February, the fair is distinguished by its comprehensive programme that caters to the interests of readers of all ages. In addition to interactive cultural activities such as seminars, panel discussions and workshops, the fair provides an opportunity to check out the latest publications from local and international publishing houses.
The Sultanate of Oman is the guest of honour at this edition of the fair, highlighting Oman's cultural and literary heritage. Prominent personalities such as Dr Ahmed Mastajir will be honoured as Person of the Year in recognition of his intellectual contributions, and Fatima Al Maddoul for her work in the field of children's literature. This is a great opportunity to interact with prominent intellectuals and writers and explore the world of books and culture in innovative ways.
If you are looking for an enriching cultural experience or want to get books at competitive prices starting from EGP 5, this event is the perfect place for you. Plan your visit now and enjoy an unforgettable tour of this cultural festival.
When is the Cairo International Book Fair?
Cairo International Book Fair 2025 will be held from 23 January to 5 February 2025, at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in the Fifth Settlement.
Sultanate of Oman to be Guest of Honour at Cairo Book Fair 2025
The Sultanate of Oman, with the beauty of its culture and the richness of its heritage, will be the guest of honour at the 2025 Cairo International Book Fair, adding a unique touch to this huge cultural event. Get ready to discover a fascinating world of Omani arts and literature that blends the fragrance of history with the creativity of the present.
At the Oman Pavilion, you will experience folk art performances that take you on a journey into the depths of Oman's heritage, as well as literary and intellectual publications that highlight the genius of Omani writers. Don't miss the opportunity to attend literary seminars and poetry evenings that combine the originality of the word and the beauty of recitation by some of the most prominent writers and poets.
This participation is more than just a showcase of books; it is a window to a world full of civilisation and traditions, opening its doors to share the passion for culture and the diversity of creativity. If you love exploring different cultures, visiting the Omani pavilion will be an unforgettable experience!
History and evolution: Cairo International Book Fair
The Cairo International Book Fair began its journey in 1969, becoming one of the most important and largest cultural events in the Arab world and Africa. Its first edition was held to celebrate the millennium anniversary of the founding of the city of Cairo, under the auspices of the Egyptian General Book Authority (EGBA). Since then, the fair has continuously evolved in terms of size, participation, and cultural impact.
Simple beginnings: In its first editions, the fair was a relatively small gathering of Egyptian and Arabic publishing houses. But it soon became a global cultural festival, becoming a major destination for publishers, authors, and intellectuals from around the world.
Growth and expansion: Over the years, the fair has expanded to include international participation, and the number of visitors has grown exponentially. It moved from its traditional location in Nasr City Fairgrounds to the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in Fifth Settlement, which offers modern facilities and services that cater to the needs of visitors and exhibitors.
Adding a cultural flavour: The fair is no longer just a book market; it has evolved into a comprehensive cultural platform.
The fair includes rich cultural programmes, such as:
Intellectual seminars that discuss literary, cultural and political issues.
Poetry and music evenings that attract art lovers.
Interactive workshops for children and youth.
An international pavilion reflecting global cultural diversity.
Technology and modernisation: In recent years, the fair has adopted modern technologies to provide a more seamless experience for visitors, such as the availability of digital applications to locate locations within the fair and book tickets online. E-publishing platforms and audiobooks have also been introduced to keep pace with developments in the publishing industry.
The role of the fair in the future: The Cairo International Book Fair is not only a cultural event but also a major platform for promoting cultural dialogue between peoples and supporting the publishing industry in the Arab world. Year after year, it continues to evolve to maintain its position as one of the world's most prominent cultural events.
The Cultural Impact of the Cairo International Book Fair
The Cairo International Book Fair is not just a passing annual event, but an inspiring cultural platform that plays a major role in shaping cultural awareness and promoting the intellectual and literary movement in Egypt and the Arab world. Since its inception in 1969, the fair has become a comprehensive cultural festival that contributes to the spread of knowledge and the exchange of ideas between peoples.
1. Promoting the culture of reading
The Book Fair is an effective tool for spreading the culture of reading among different segments of society, offering a variety of titles for all ages and interests. Through book sales and workshops for children and youth, the fair succeeds in attracting new generations to engage in the world of literature and reading.
2. Supporting the publishing and book industry
The fair provides a major platform for Arab and international publishing houses to connect with a wide audience. It is a springboard for many new writers, allowing them to showcase their work and interact with readers directly. It also boosts the publishing industry by promoting both paper and electronic books.
3. Promote cultural exchange
The fair brings together diverse cultures from around the world, with publishers and intellectuals from more than 50 countries participating. This diversity reflects the importance of cultural dialogue between peoples, which contributes to spreading the values of tolerance, openness and mutual understanding.
4. Highlighting intellectual issues
Through intellectual seminars and dialogue sessions, the exhibition opens discussion on various cultural, social and political issues. It hosts leading intellectuals and thinkers from around the world, making it a platform for new ideas and exchange of visions.
5. Focus on children and youth
The exhibition pays special attention to children and youth through special pavilions and educational and interactive workshops. It seeks to develop a love of knowledge and creativity in them, which contributes to building a generation that is educated and aware of the issues of its society.
6. Supporting Cultural Heritage
Every year, the exhibition dedicates part of its programme to celebrating prominent cultural figures and cultural heritage. It also contributes to strengthening cultural identity by showcasing local and regional heritage alongside modern creations.
7. Contributing to the cultural economy
The exhibition represents an economic opportunity for the publishing and translation industry, boosting book sales and creating opportunities for partnerships between publishers, authors and translators.
Impact that extends beyond the borders of the fair:
The impact of the Cairo International Book Fair has gone beyond its walls, inspiring the organisation of similar book fairs in the Arab world, and spreading culture and knowledge more widely. Thanks to the event, Egypt has established itself as the cultural capital of the region.
Promoting Arabic Literature
The Cairo International Book Fair has played a pivotal role in promoting Arabic literature globally. The fair provides an opportunity for Arab authors and publishers to showcase their work to an international audience, helping to increase awareness of Arabic literature and culture. It also promotes translation from and into the Arabic language, helping to make Arabic literature available to a global audience.
Providing a platform for dialogue and cultural exchange
The Cairo International Book Fair provides a platform for dialogue and cultural exchange between authors, poets and scholars from different cultures. The fair organises many cultural events, such as seminars, lectures and art exhibitions, which provide an opportunity for dialogue and discussion on various cultural issues. The fair also contributes to promoting understanding between different cultures, helping to build a more peaceful and cooperative world.
7 reasons to visit the 56th edition of the Book Fair in 2025
1. Spreading the culture of reading and knowledge
The fair is a key driver in promoting reading in Arab societies, offering thousands of titles at prices that suit different social segments, with books available at nominal prices in the discounted book pavilion. By attracting millions of visitors every year, the fair encourages reading as a daily habit.
2 Supporting Arabic and International Literature
The fair is a platform for showcasing the latest Arabic and international books, giving readers access to previously inaccessible works. It also contributes to enhancing the status of Arabic literature by presenting it to a global audience, and the participation of foreign publishing houses showcasing their literature and heritage.
3. Promoting International Cultural Dialogue
The fair brings together different cultures from around the world by hosting publishing houses and authors from multiple countries. This participation highlights cultural diversity and encourages intercultural dialogue, fostering international understanding and cooperation.
4. Revitalising Cultural Heritage
Each edition of the fair highlights prominent cultural or literary figures and their intellectual legacy, helping to preserve and highlight the value of Arab cultural heritage for new generations. The fair also provides a space for traditional crafts and folk arts that reflect the identity and heritage of Arab societies.
5. Providing a platform for new creativity
The exhibition gives young writers and independent publishers the opportunity to showcase their work and connect with new audiences. It also helps them build a network of relationships with publishing houses and intellectuals, thereby boosting literary and intellectual creativity in the Arab world.
6. Impact on children and youth
The exhibition offers educational and entertainment programmes for children and youth through dedicated pavilions, artistic and literary workshops, and theatrical performances. These activities contribute to fostering a love of reading and developing creativity in the younger generations.
7. Stimulating intellectual and social debate
Through the intellectual seminars and debates it hosts, the exhibition opens the door to discussing contemporary social, cultural and political issues. It hosts intellectuals and thinkers from different backgrounds, making it a platform to search for innovative solutions to the challenges facing societies.
Different features offered by the Book Fair
The exhibition is equipped to receive people with special needs, with appropriate corridors and facilities.
Special services for visitors
1. Rest areas.
2. Restaurants and cafes.
3. Free Wi-Fi in some areas.
The fair offers a pavilion for discounted books, including publications with prices starting from EGP 5
Cairo International Book Fair 2025 FAQs
Here are the most important questions you may have about the 56th Cairo International Book Fair in 2025, with brief answers to make your visit easier:
1. When is the Cairo International Book Fair held?
The fair will be held from 23 January to 5 February 2025.
2. Where will the fair be held?
The fair will be held at the Egypt International Exhibition Centre in Cairo's Fifth Settlement.
3. Who is this year's guest of honour?
The Sultanate of Oman is the guest of honour for this edition, providing an opportunity to learn about Omani culture and heritage.
4. What are the daily opening hours?
Opening hours are usually from 10am to 8pm, with the possibility of adjustments during weekends. It is advisable to check the official website for confirmation.
5. What are the entry ticket prices?
Ticket prices are usually nominal (around EGP 5-10) and can be booked online via the official website or purchased at the gates.
6. How to get to the exhibition?
Using dedicated transport lines from major centres such as Tahrir Square, Ramses, and Giza Square.
Via the metro, get to Abbasiya station, then take transport to the exhibition.
Or via transport apps such as Uber and Careem.
7. Are there special activities for children?
Yes, the exhibition has a children's pavilion that offers educational and entertaining books, as well as workshops and creative activities suitable for all ages.
8. Is it possible to buy books online at Book Fair 2025?
Some publishers offer the possibility of buying books online during the exhibition period. You can follow the publishers' websites or online platforms.
9. Are there any good discounts at the 2025 Book Fair?
The fair offers a pavilion for discounted books, including publications with prices starting from EGP 5, as well as discounts on new books from various publishing houses.
10. Are there special cultural programmes during the 2025 Book Fair?
Yes, the fair includes intellectual seminars, poetry evenings, literary discussions, and artistic workshops, with the participation of an elite group of intellectuals and writers.
11. How can I follow the events of the 2025 Book Fair?
You can follow the schedule of events via:
The official website of the Cairo International Book Fair.
The fair's social media pages.
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