International Arab Book Fair

The 11th International Arab Book Fair takes place in Istanbul, Turkey, from August 15 to 23, 2026. Hosted at the Eurasia Exhibition and Arts Center in the Yenikapı area, it is recognized as a major cultural event dedicated to Arabic books outside Arab countries. The fair operates under the theme “The Story Continues,” bringing together over 300 publishing houses from more than 30 countries, with an anticipated attendance of over 120,000 visitors.

The agenda features a comprehensive cultural program that includes writers, publishers, academics, and translators. Key discussions revolve around publishing rights, intellectual property protection, and facilitating translation between Arabic and Turkish. Specific events, such as “Istanbul, Meeting Point of Civilizations” organized by the Turkish Ministry of Culture and Tourism, explore the influence of Arabic literature on Turkish literature. The fair also sees participation from official delegations and cultural ministries of various countries, including Qatar, Oman, Syria, and Kuwait, some with specially designed pavilions.

Beyond its literary focus, the fair serves as an important platform for broader dialogue on cultural and social issues affecting the Islamic nation. It aims to strengthen bonds and promote shared values among communities in the Islamic world. Some reports also indicate its use as a platform for political discussions and cooperation, such as between Qatar and Turkey concerning the Palestinian issue and calls for humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.