47th Islamic Book Fair launched; celebrating knowledge, culture

KUWAIT: The 47th edition of the Islamic Book Fair was inaugurated on Monday under the patronage of Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi. The event, hosted at the Social Reform Society (SRS) headquarters in Rawda, will run until May 3. Delivering a speech on behalf of the minister, Director General of the Kuwait National Library Suham Al-Azmi said the fair reflects a longstanding commitment to promoting conscious reading and intellectual enrichment. “Over 47 years, this fair has succeeded in enlightening hearts and minds and inspiring a culture of thoughtful readership,” she noted.

Al-Azmi added that this year’s edition coincides with Kuwait’s designation as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for 2025, aligning the fair with national celebrations highlighting Kuwait’s charitable and cultural contributions. She pointed to the theme of the fair, “Towards Civilizational Awareness,” as a call to deepen cultural understanding and promote exposure to diverse intellectual perspectives through books and literature. Chairman of the Social Reform Society Dr Khaled Al-Madhkur highlighted the pivotal role of Islamic literature in shaping an informed and resilient Muslim identity. “Books remain a foundation for awareness, civilization, and identity,” he said. “This exhibition reaffirms our belief that building people is the cornerstone of every civilization.”

Chairman of the Social Reform Society, Dr. Khaled Al-Madhkour

Director General of the National Library of Kuwait, Suham Al-Azmi

He underscored the fair’s aim to reach a broad audience — including youth, families, educators, and children — through a comprehensive program of book displays, educational and cultural activities, and intellectual seminars. “We aim to instill the values of justice, truth, and solidarity, while also fostering a deep understanding of the causes affecting the Islamic nation,” Dr Al-Madhkur said, adding that this year’s exhibition places special focus on Gaza, Jerusalem, and Al-Aqsa Mosque.

In line with Kuwait’s cultural vision, the fair also embraces digital transformation through an interactive online portal, allowing visitors to explore key titles and exhibitors. A total of 120 publishing houses from the Arab world, the Gulf, and Europe are participating, reflecting the fair’s growing international reach and Kuwait’s role as a cultural hub.

This year’s fair features a diverse array of programs tailored for different segments of society, including morning educational sessions for students in collaboration with the Ministry of Education, specialized knowledge competitions, cultural workshops, and seminars led by distinguished intellectuals. Dedicated children’s pavilions offer educational and recreational activities to nurture a love of reading among young visitors. Highlight events include the “Impact of Culture” competition and the “Genius Challenge,” both aimed at fostering a strong and sustainable culture of knowledge within society. — KUNA