Cairo Book Fair Closes With Record Attendance and Global Participation

The 55th Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF) wrapped up in Egypt’s capital on Tuesday, marking a significant increase in both attendance and international participation. The fair, which started on January 24, saw approximately 4.8 million visitors, a substantial rise from last year’s 3.5 million. Organized by the General Egyptian Book Organization (GEBO) under the Ministry of Culture, this year’s event featured 1,200 publishers and 5,250 exhibitors from 70 countries, with Norway highlighted as the guest of honor.

GEBO Chairman Ahmed Bahy El-Din hailed the fair as a historic success, noting records set in visitor numbers, publisher participation, and the breadth of cultural and artistic offerings. The fair has grown to become a cornerstone event for the literary and cultural community, showcasing the vibrancy of the global publishing industry.

In a forward-looking announcement, it was revealed that Oman would be the guest of honor at the next CIBF, while the Bayt Al-Hekma Cultural Group received accolades as the best Egyptian publisher of this year’s fair. Since its inception in 1969, CIBF has established itself as a premier literary event in the Middle East, fostering cultural exchange and celebrating the world of books.