Jeddah International Book Fair

The Jeddah International Book Fair is the second international book fair in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia after the Riyadh International Book Fair, held at the events grounds in South Obhur, Jeddah City. The book fairs, led by the Riyadh and Jeddah International Book Fairs, have affirmed the spread of reading culture and have formed the strongest link in the Saudi book and publishing sector. Additionally, they provide a competitive advantage around which a thriving book industry is developing.

Jeddah International Book Fair launched its first edition in 2015 through a partnership with the Ministry of Media and the Jeddah Chamber. The fair is held annually in Jeddah City under the direct supervision of the fair’s supreme committee, chaired by the Mayor of Jeddah.

The fair is typically accompanied by various events, primarily seminars, lectures, and theatrical performances by actors both within and outside the fair, covering social and cultural topics. The program also features documentary films for families and children, addressing educational and awareness-raising themes. Additionally, there is a creative translation competition, as well as workshops in visual arts, photography, and the Arabic language. Male and female authors participate in signing sessions to autograph their books for visitors at the fair, creating a cultural event that emphasizes innovative content presentation, promotes community engagement with books, supports the cultural industry, fosters a sense of connection to books, and encourages the growth of authorship and publishing overall.

The Jeddah Book Fair is the third book fair organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission in 2022, following the Madinah Book Fair and the Riyadh International Book Fair. This initiative aims to expand access to books to a broader audience and create multiple channels for publishing and distribution, positioning the Kingdom as a key hub in the book industry.