The 28th installment of the Muscat International Book Fair commenced on February 21 at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, featuring an extensive assortment of over 600,000 titles from 34 countries. This year’s focal point was on Palestine, exploring various facets of the crisis, while the overarching theme revolved around artificial intelligence, encompassing numerous events and activities dedicated to this technology.
Dhahirah, one of Oman’s governorates, took the spotlight as the guest of honor, showcasing a dedicated pavilion that highlights the intellectual and cultural heritage of the region. The fair, which runs until March 2, boasts a comprehensive agenda filled with programs, activities, and cultural events.
A notable participation of 847 publishing houses from 34 countries, comprising 676 direct participants and 171 through agencies, has enriched the fair. The diverse collection comprises 622,000 titles, including around 269,000 Arabic books, 200,000 foreign books, and 19,000 Omani publications. Particularly noteworthy is the inclusion of 35,989 new releases printed between 2023 and 2024.
An allocated space caters to children and family-oriented activities, featuring a dedicated theatre for events and workshops, a language corner, and a children’s museum corner. Multiple pavilions with cultural cafés further enhance the book fair experience.
