Muscat: The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair continues its activities, running from April 24 to May 3, with the participation of 35 countries, including the State of Qatar, represented by the Ministry of Culture and a number of Qatari publishing houses. Qatar's participation reflects the Ministry's commitment to engaging in international book fairs, which serve as key platforms to showcase Qatari intellectual output to a wide audience, highlight the country's ongoing development in the publishing industry, and promote collaboration and knowledge exchange with professionals in the cultural and publishing sectors.
According to Qatar News Agency, Ayman Abdulsamad from Hamad Bin Khalifa University Press said that the press is participating in the Muscat International Book Fair for the seventh time, presenting over 665 titles. These include academic works, lifestyle and health books, science fiction, and literature for children and young adults. He stressed the press's continued support for Qatari and Arab talent, with a strong focus on Arabic literature and storytelling, and its dedication to participating in book fairs around the world.
Similarly, writer Issa Abdullah from Rosa Publishing House stated that this is the house's seventh participation, presenting over 220 titles this year, including new releases. He emphasized the importance of the fair as a cultural platform and a valuable opportunity to introduce Qatari cultural output to Gulf, Arab, and global markets. He also highlighted the fair's significance as one of the most important events in the Gulf and Arab literary scenes.
Dalia Sabbagh from Dar Al-Watad Books and Publications noted that the house is showcasing a wide array of titles at the fair, spanning general knowledge, science, law, novels, self-development, history, and children's literature, with over 110 titles on display. She underscored the importance of Qatari participation in such a prominent regional fair to highlight the contributions of Qatari publishing houses.
Qatar's participation also underscores the Ministry of Culture's commitment to strengthening ties between Doha International Book Fair and Muscat International Book Fair. The Muscat fair is recognized as one of the most prominent and largest in the Arab world, drawing strong interest from both Arab and international publishers. This presence also reflects the Ministry's ongoing support for local publishing houses, enriching the broader ecosystem of publishing, writing, and reading.