Literary utopia showcases cultural richness and artistic innovation at Madinah Book Fair
Madinah Book Fair 2023: A Celebration of Culture, Creativity, and Traditional Crafts
The fourth annual Madinah Book Fair is currently underway at the King Salman International Convention Center, marking a significant cultural event in the city. This literary haven is not just a book fair; it's a celebration of culture, creativity, and the importance of traditional crafts, as part of a long-term project to develop the cultural sector in Madinah and Saudi Arabia more broadly.
The fair features over 200 pavilions, including a new addition this year - the Saudi publishing corner, which focuses on self-publishing authors. UAE-based publishing house Little Puffin, specializing in English-language books, has noted a growing interest in English-language literature among Madinah Book Fair attendees.
One of the most popular destinations for cultural enthusiasts is the Ana Al-Madinah booth, which offers virtual reality experiences that transport visitors 1400 years back in time to the era of the Prophet Muhammad and his companions. Visitors can embark on a seven-minute journey through Madinah and an 11-minute exploration of Makkah, visiting historical landmarks as they appeared at the time and experiencing daily life from that period.
The Ministry of Culture's display, themed "Year of Handicrafts," showcases traditional crafts from various regions of Saudi Arabia, with a focus on women's contributions to handicrafts. The booth celebrates the artistry and heritage of Saudi craftsmanship, providing a glimpse into the rich cultural history of the region.
The Madinah Book Fair is more than just books and crafts. It offers a rich and diverse cultural programme, including seminars, panel discussions, workshops, and activities for children. UK publisher Harper's Books and Creativity Products is showcasing innovative products that combine art with relaxation, offering visitors a chance to unwind and engage in a fulfilling activity.
Marvin Pepito, a representative of Little Puffin, found the Madinah Book Fair audience to be respectful and engaged, making his first experience memorable. Bassam Al-Bassam, the general manager of publishing at the commission, stated that improvements have been made based on feedback from last year's event.
Prince Salman bin Sultan, the governor of Madinah Region, was among the early visitors. The Madinah Book Fair is seen as a significant cultural event and a milestone in a long-term project to build a cultural sector that values the power of words and invests in the future of knowledge.
The Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission aims to build a solid and sustainable national publishing industry based on empowerment, rights exchanges, marketing of Saudi content, and increased presence in international markets, in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The Madinah Book Fair will run until Aug. 4, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Saudi culture, literature, and history. Whether you're a bookworm, a culture enthusiast, or simply looking for a new experience, the Madinah Book Fair is a must-visit.
- Abu Dhabi-based publisher Little Puffin has observed a surge in interest among Madinah Book Fair attendees in English-language literature.
- The Saudi publishing corner, a new addition to this year's Madinah Book Fair, focuses on self-published authors.
- The Ministry of Culture's "Year of Handicrafts" display at the Madinah Book Fair highlights traditional crafts from different Saudi Arabian regions, particularly highlighting women's impact on handicrafts.
- UK publisher Harper's Books and Creativity Products is showcasing art-infused relaxation products at the Madinah Book Fair, giving visitors a chance to relax and engage creatively.
- Saudi Arabia's goal with the Madinah Book Fair is to build a sustainable and robust national publishing industry, aligning with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
- The Madinah Book Fair, which features a rich assortment of books, cultural experiences, and traditional crafts, is poised as a must-visit for book lovers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone seeking a unique experience.
