Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
The 57th edition of the Cairo International Book Fair opened to strong public interest, drawing more than 245,000 visitors on its first day, according to official figures released by organizers. The turnout reaffirmed the fair’s status as one of the largest and most influential cultural events in the Arab world.
Held under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the annual event is organized by Egypt’s Ministry of Culture through the General Egyptian Book Organization. This year’s fair is taking place at the Egypt International Exhibition Center in New Cairo, continuing a shift in recent editions toward expanded venues and improved infrastructure to accommodate growing audiences.
Minister of Culture Ahmed Fouad Hanno said the current edition reflects significant progress in the quality of services provided to visitors, alongside a diverse cultural and artistic program designed to appeal to a broad cross-section of the public. He described the book fair as a central platform for dialogue and knowledge exchange, bringing together writers, publishers, intellectuals, and readers in what he called a comprehensive cultural experience.
Hanno noted that the large turnout on the opening day underscores public confidence in the fair and its long-standing role in promoting cultural awareness and reading. He added that the ministry is committed to ensuring that this edition lives up to the fair’s historical legacy and its reputation at both the regional and international levels.
Over the decades, the Cairo International Book Fair has evolved beyond a traditional book market into a major cultural festival, hosting debates on literature, politics, philosophy, and the arts, while also serving as a key meeting point for Arab and international publishers. It has played a significant role in shaping reading culture in Egypt and the wider region, particularly by offering affordable editions and programs aimed at young readers.
The 57th edition will continue until February 3 and features broad participation from publishing houses, cultural institutions, and creative organizations from Egypt and abroad. The program includes panel discussions, author talks, book signings, and artistic performances, reflecting the fair’s ambition to remain a cornerstone of cultural life amid rapid changes in media consumption and the publishing industry.
Organizers expect attendance to rise further over the coming days, especially during weekends and school holidays, reinforcing the fair’s position as a key annual gathering for readers and cultural professionals alike.
