Muscat, May 5, 2025 — The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair concluded this week with an unprecedented turnout of 649,589 visitors, marking the highest attendance in the event’s history. Hosted at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, the fair witnessed a remarkable 64% increase in footfall compared to the previous year, underscoring the growing popularity of this annual literary and cultural gathering.
Held under the theme “Cultural Diversity: Enriching Civilizations,” the event brought together 674 publishing houses from 35 countries, transforming the venue into a vibrant space of intellectual exchange and cultural celebration. Visitors had access to more than 681,000 book titles in both Arabic and foreign languages, including 27,000 publications by Omani authors and more than 52,000 newly released books published in 2024 and early 2025.
Ahmed Saud Al Rawahi, Director of the Muscat International Book Fair, credited the record-breaking turnout to the event’s expanded programming and stronger community engagement. “We focused this year on creating a fair that resonates with a wide range of audiences — from academic and literary circles to families and young readers,” he stated.
A key feature of the fair was its cultural diversity, represented not only through books but also through a broad range of activities. More than 360 events took place over the course of the fair, including panel discussions, poetry readings, author meet-and-greets, academic lectures, and interactive workshops. A dedicated children’s program also drew significant interest, offering storytelling sessions, reading corners, and creative arts activities designed to inspire young minds.
This year, the North Al Sharqiyah Governorate was the guest of honor, and its pavilion showcased the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region through visual exhibits, multimedia presentations, and live cultural performances. The arts corner also paid tribute to prominent Omani poets and visual artists, celebrating their contributions to the country’s literary and artistic identity.
The fair’s international presence was strongly felt, with participation from publishers and literary figures across the Middle East, Africa, Europe, and Asia. Several cultural delegations held joint sessions and exhibitions, providing visitors a glimpse into global publishing trends and cross-cultural storytelling.
Notably, Saudi Arabia had a strong presence at this year’s event, hosting a dedicated pavilion that offered a variety of intellectual programs, including seminars with Saudi writers, discussions on contemporary Arabic literature, and book signings. This exchange further cemented the cultural ties between Oman and the Kingdom.
Media coverage was widespread, with nearly 70 journalists representing dozens of local and international outlets. The fair’s organizers noted a substantial increase in online engagement, reflecting the growing digital interest in literary events and cultural forums in the Gulf region.
Looking ahead, organizers announced that Al Wusta Governorate will be the guest of honor at the 30th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair in 2026. The decision reflects a continuing effort to spotlight Oman’s diverse regions and cultural identities within the framework of a major international event.
As the fair wrapped up, it left behind not only a record number of visitors but also a renewed sense of enthusiasm for literature and cultural dialogue. The success of the 2025 edition signals a bright future for literary events in the Sultanate and reaffirms Muscat’s role as a growing hub for regional and global cultural engagement.
