The 47th edition of the Islamic Book Fair was officially launched in Kuwait on Monday, drawing attention to the enduring importance of literature, knowledge, and cultural identity in the Islamic world. The event, held at the headquarters of the Social Reform Society (SRS) in Rawda, is set to run until May 3 and is being held under the patronage of Kuwait’s Minister of Information and Culture and Minister of State for Youth Affairs, Abdulrahman Al-Mutairi.
Speaking on behalf of the minister at the opening ceremony, Director General of the Kuwait National Library, Suham Al-Azmi, emphasised that the fair stands as a testament to nearly five decades of commitment to promoting conscious and impactful reading. She noted that since its inception, the Islamic Book Fair has played a vital role in enlightening hearts and minds, cultivating a culture of critical thinking, and advancing intellectual discourse across generations.
This year’s edition, themed “Towards Civilizational Awareness,” aligns with Kuwait’s broader cultural celebrations as the nation prepares to be recognised as the Capital of Arab Culture and Media for the year 2025. Al-Azmi said the theme calls for a deepened cultural consciousness and encourages wider engagement with diverse ideas through books and intellectual exchange.
Chairman of the Social Reform Society, Dr. Khaled Al-Madhkur, echoed these sentiments, stressing that Islamic literature continues to serve as a key pillar in shaping an informed and resilient Muslim identity. “Books remain essential to the foundation of any civilization,” he said. “This fair is not just an event — it is a reaffirmation of our belief that the development of people is the bedrock of every great society.”
He added that the fair has been designed to reach a broad cross-section of the public, including youth, educators, families, and children. Through its carefully curated program of book exhibitions, cultural workshops, educational activities, and intellectual seminars, the fair seeks to instil values such as justice, truth, and solidarity. This year’s exhibition also places special attention on critical issues affecting the Muslim world, particularly the ongoing struggles in Gaza, the situation in Jerusalem, and the significance of Al-Aqsa Mosque.
In keeping with Kuwait’s digital transformation strategy and cultural vision, the fair also features an interactive online platform that allows users to explore participating publishers and key literary titles from anywhere in the world. This innovation reflects the fair’s evolving international presence and Kuwait’s standing as a cultural beacon in the Arab and Islamic world.
Over 120 publishing houses from across the Gulf region, wider Arab world, and Europe are taking part in the exhibition, offering a wide range of publications spanning religion, philosophy, culture, education, and children’s literature.
The fair’s programming also includes morning educational sessions for school students in collaboration with Kuwait’s Ministry of Education, specialised knowledge competitions, seminars led by prominent scholars, and cultural forums aimed at fostering intellectual engagement. Dedicated pavilions for children offer creative and educational experiences, furthering the goal of nurturing a love for reading among the next generation.
Among the major highlights are the “Impact of Culture” competition and the “Genius Challenge,” initiatives aimed at cultivating a lasting culture of learning and intellectual excellence within the society.
With its rich blend of tradition and innovation, this year’s Islamic Book Fair not only celebrates literature and cultural heritage but also reinforces Kuwait’s role as a leading promoter of knowledge and civilization within the Islamic world.
