Kuwait’s 47th Islamic Book Fair opens with 120 publishers

• The 47th Islamic Book Fair will place significant emphasis on Gaza, Jerusalem, and Al-Aqsa Mosque. This exhibition is a fitting occasion for Kuwait, named the Capital of Media and Culture, to share and promote this culture for future generations.

The 47th Islamic Book Fair began on Monday, under the patronage of Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi, Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs. The fair will run until May 3 at the Social Reform Society headquarters in Rawdah, reported Arabic daily Al Jarida.

In her speech on behalf of Minister Al-Mutairi, Director General of the National Library of Kuwait, Suham Al-Azmi, highlighted the 47-year legacy of the Islamic Book Fair in its mission to inspire minds and hearts while promoting conscious reading.

Al-Azmi noted that the exhibition aligns with Kuwait’s celebration as the Arab Capital of Culture and Media for 2025, reflecting the nation’s commitment to cultural and charitable works in partnership with official institutions.

She emphasized that this year’s theme, “Towards Civilizational Awareness,” aligns with the vision of the exhibition, which aims to foster enlightenment through exposure to diverse literary perspectives and encouraging reading for intellectual growth.

Dr. Khaled Mathkor Al-Mathkor, Chairman of the Social Reform Society, in his address, underscored the significance of Islamic books as tools for awareness and civilization, particularly in these times of change and challenges. He reaffirmed the society’s dedication to reinforcing the nation’s identity and promoting knowledge in its most beautiful form through activities that cater to all age groups.

Dr. Al-Mathkor added, “This year’s exhibition slogan stems from our belief that building the human being is the foundation of every civilization. It is our duty to instill in the hearts of our youth the values of truth, justice, support, and a strong awareness of the issues facing our Islamic nation. We aim for this year’s fair to be comprehensive and impactful, addressing all demographics: men, women, youth, children, families, teachers, and educators, through quality books, intellectual, educational, and volunteer activities, as well as cultural competitions that help develop generations of educated readers who believe in their role in building their homeland and serving their nation.”

He pointed out that Gaza, Jerusalem, and Al-Aqsa Mosque will have a significant focus at this year’s exhibition. He also noted that the fair is a fitting event for Kuwait, named the capital of media and culture, to convey and facilitate this culture for our generations and youth. Visitors can explore the most prominent books and participating publishers, totaling 120, through an interactive website that reflects Kuwait’s cultural standing and intellectual openness.

The exhibition will feature over 120 publishers from Arab, Gulf, and European countries, along with activities such as educational programs for school students in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, knowledge competitions, cultural workshops, and intellectual seminars.

Special pavilions for children’s books, along with educational and recreational activities, will also be part of the fair, promoting a love of reading and knowledge among the younger generation. The exhibition will also include cultural competitions like the “Impact of Culture” and the “Genius Challenge,” all contributing to the cultivation of a robust knowledge culture in society.