Latest news with #MuscatInternationalBookFair
Leaders
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Leaders
Saudi Arabia to Take Part in Beijing International Book Fair
Saudi Arabia will participate in the Beijing International Book Fair from June 18 to 22 under the leadership of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The Kingdom's participation is part of the Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year 2025, highlighting the strong and deep relations between both countries. The fair will also provide Saudi Arabia with an unmissable opportunity to strengthen its presence in global cultural forums and build new partnerships with international literary and translation entities. Moreover, the Saudi participation perfectly aligns with the objectives of the Saudi Vision 2030 of centering culture as a pillar of development and a significant bridge for civilizational dialogue. Through several seminars, literary gatherings, and dialogue sessions, Saudi pavilion will boast an outstanding institutional presence to foster cultural exchange between Saudi Arabia and China. Interestingly, the Kingdom was the guest of honor at the 2024 Beijing International Book Fair, and the commission presented a rich and diverse cultural program. The Saudi-Chinese Cultural Year 2025 marks a significant milestone in boosting the bilateral cultural ties through a vast array of interactive events. Such events will further enhance the cultural scene in both nations and deepen the historical ties between their peoples. Related Topics: Saudi Arabia Participates in Muscat International Book Fair 2025 Cairo International Book Fair 2025 Kicks Off Saudi Arabia Wraps up Participation in London Book Fair Short link : Post Views: 2 Related Stories
Mid East Info
07-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Oman Arab Bank and Dar Al Atta'a Partner to Share the Gift of Reading at Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Muscat: As part of a leading initiative aimed at instilling the love of reading in the hearts of children and enhancing community interaction, Oman Arab Bank (OAB) has teamed up with Dar Al Atta'a, a leading charity organization in the Sultanate of Oman, for a special book donation campaign at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025. The fair, which was held from April 24 to May 3 at the Oman Convention & Exhibition Center (OCEC), served as a hub for book lovers, authors, and cultural enthusiasts alike. This year, OAB introduced an exciting opportunity for visitors to make a meaningful impact. A dedicated book donation box was set up at the fair near Gate 3, opposite the OAB booth. The bank invited all visitors to bring along their gently used books and donate them to the initiative. These books were then to be distributed to children across Oman to provide them with the tools to embark on their own journeys of discovery and imagination. Commenting on the initiative, Mr Sulaiman Al Harthi, CEO of Oman Arab Bank, said, 'We believe that reading opens doors to endless possibilities. This initiative is a testament to our commitment towards the communities we serve. By partnering with Dar Al Atta'a, we have not only helped instill the joy of reading into the hearts of young readers, but we also gave back to the community in a meaningful way. Through this initiative we hoped to inspire a generation of young readers; those same who will shape the future of our country.' The collaboration between OAB and Dar Al Atta'a reflects the bank's ongoing efforts to make a positive social impact. The book donation initiative is just one of the ways OAB supports educational and social causes, alongside its broader role in the digital transformation of Oman's banking landscape. OAB's participation as Official Banking Partner of the book fair was also aligned with its commitment to enhancing the visitor experience through cashless transactions using the OAB SoftPOS system at every book stall. Visitors were able to conveniently tap-to-pay to make quick and secure purchases. The Muscat International Book Fair served as a platform to promote cultural exchange and learning. Oman Arab Bank's involvement this year was a step towards fostering a society that values education, and knowledgeable empowerment.
Times of Oman
05-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Muscat International Book Fair attracts over 640,000 visitors
Muscat: The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair recorded a 64.81% increase in visitors, attracting 649,589 attendees compared to 394,172 in the previous edition. This significant turnout reflects the fair's leading cultural stature and prominent position on the global events map. Ahmed Saud Al Rawahi, Director of Muscat International Book Fair, told Oman News Agency (ONA): 'With each edition, we strive to offer programmes that align with the aspirations and interests of all groups across various fields of knowledge. This year's 29th edition was notably more diverse and vibrant on multiple levels—local, Arab, and international—featuring the North A'Sharqiyah Governorate as the guest of honor, Saudi cultural days, and participants from Asia, Europe, and South America.' He added that the fair's diversity was evident through dialogue sessions, lectures, workshops, and an expanded children's programme, all contributing to the overarching theme of the 29th edition: 'Cultural Diversity: Enriching Global Civilizations.' These efforts helped attract a broader audience. Al Rawahi emphasised that the organising committee aims to build on this momentum through careful planning and continuous improvement, delivering human knowledge in all its forms and for all age groups. This approach serves books, readers, and publishers while aligning with humanity's cultural and intellectual progress and benefiting Omani society. He noted that the surge in attendance resulted from enhanced organisational efforts and a diversified programme, reflecting lessons learned from past editions and audience interests. The fair's improved structure and varied events were well-received by visitors. The participation of prominent cultural figures and extensive media coverage further highlighted the fair's significance, drawing more visitors despite its unusual early summer timing. This year's fair introduced several changes and improvements, including a more diverse program and international participation in exhibitions and events. The guest of honour pavilion, dedicated to North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, showcased the region's history and scenic beauty through an innovative and visually striking design, blending tradition and modernity. Additionally, the arts corner featured exhibitions honouring late Omani artists and poets, celebrating their contributions to poetry and art, which further captivated visitors. Regarding the most engaging cultural activities, Al Rawahi pointed out that the fair's accompanying programme included 366 diverse events, with specialised and children's workshops receiving particularly strong participation. Muscat International Book Fair received extensive local and international media coverage, with 70 journalists representing 37 foreign media outlets, underscoring its role in promoting culture and knowledge. This year's fair hosted 674 publishing houses from 35 countries—640 participating directly and 34 through agents—offering a total of 681,041 titles. These included approximately 467,413 Arabic books, 213,610 foreign titles, and 27,464 Omani publications. Around 52,205 newly printed books (2024–2025) were also featured.
Times of Oman
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Times of Oman
Muscat International Book Fair attracts over 64,000 visitors
Muscat: The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair recorded a 64.81% increase in visitors, attracting 649,589 attendees compared to 394,172 in the previous edition. This significant turnout reflects the fair's leading cultural stature and prominent position on the global events map. Ahmed Saud Al Rawahi, Director of Muscat International Book Fair, told Oman News Agency (ONA): 'With each edition, we strive to offer programmes that align with the aspirations and interests of all groups across various fields of knowledge. This year's 29th edition was notably more diverse and vibrant on multiple levels—local, Arab, and international—featuring the North A'Sharqiyah Governorate as the guest of honor, Saudi cultural days, and participants from Asia, Europe, and South America.' He added that the fair's diversity was evident through dialogue sessions, lectures, workshops, and an expanded children's programme, all contributing to the overarching theme of the 29th edition: 'Cultural Diversity: Enriching Global Civilizations.' These efforts helped attract a broader audience. Al Rawahi emphasised that the organising committee aims to build on this momentum through careful planning and continuous improvement, delivering human knowledge in all its forms and for all age groups. This approach serves books, readers, and publishers while aligning with humanity's cultural and intellectual progress and benefiting Omani society. He noted that the surge in attendance resulted from enhanced organisational efforts and a diversified programme, reflecting lessons learned from past editions and audience interests. The fair's improved structure and varied events were well-received by visitors. The participation of prominent cultural figures and extensive media coverage further highlighted the fair's significance, drawing more visitors despite its unusual early summer timing. This year's fair introduced several changes and improvements, including a more diverse program and international participation in exhibitions and events. The guest of honour pavilion, dedicated to North Al Sharqiyah Governorate, showcased the region's history and scenic beauty through an innovative and visually striking design, blending tradition and modernity. Additionally, the arts corner featured exhibitions honouring late Omani artists and poets, celebrating their contributions to poetry and art, which further captivated visitors. Regarding the most engaging cultural activities, Al Rawahi pointed out that the fair's accompanying programme included 366 diverse events, with specialised and children's workshops receiving particularly strong participation. Muscat International Book Fair received extensive local and international media coverage, with 70 journalists representing 37 foreign media outlets, underscoring its role in promoting culture and knowledge. This year's fair hosted 674 publishing houses from 35 countries—640 participating directly and 34 through agents—offering a total of 681,041 titles. These included approximately 467,413 Arabic books, 213,610 foreign titles, and 27,464 Omani publications. Around 52,205 newly printed books (2024–2025) were also featured.
Muscat Daily
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Muscat Daily
So many books, so little time
Muscat – Reading maketh a full man, but reading habits are fast fading with time and distractions from technology. Though Muscat International Book Fair is rekindling an interest in reading, how can we further encourage young minds to embrace books over screens? Here is what Muscat Daily readers said – Aisha al Balushi, Homemaker Muscat International Book Fair has reignited an interest in books, but to encourage young minds further, we must create vibrant reading corners in schools, host storytelling sessions and introduce reading challenges that reward participation. Making books fun and accessible can help divert attention away from screens. Khalfan al Amri, Private sector employee The book fair reminds us that knowledge comes best through reading. To engage young minds, schools could invite authors, organise interactive reading workshops and promote creative writing competitions. Mariam al Farsi, Bank employee Muscat International Book Fair brings stories alive, but to sustain it, we should integrate reading into everyday life. Family reading time, a culture of gifting books and community reading events can make books more appealing than screens. It's about creating emotional connections with stories from a young age. Saif al Amri, Businessman Children need to see reading as a source of excitement, not obligation. The book fair helps, but parents and teachers must continue the effort. Regular library visits, book clubs and even author meet-ups can inspire them to explore new worlds through books instead of spending hours on devices and TV games. Priya Verma, Painter and homemaker The book fair is a celebration of imagination. To further its impact, we can encourage children with fun book review activities and family reading challenges. We can start with comics like Tintin and Asterix. When children find books they connect with, they'll prefer the joy of reading over the temporary thrill of a screen. Arjun Kapoor, Private sector employee Muscat International Book Fair rekindles curiosity. It is difficult to disregard and abandon devices totally in the present era. To keep alive the habit of reading, combining technology with books – like interactive e-books and reading apps – could help bridge the gap. Alnisa Vikinga, Private sector employee Parents need to sit down with their children and read for them or let children read for their parents from a book. When you engage kids in reading, kids do more than just absorb information; you offer a rich tapestry of ideas, narratives and perspectives to sift through. Every word or sentence acts as a key, unlocking doors to new thoughts, solutions and inspirations. The more they read, the more they will know.
