Int’l Arabic Book Fair in Istanbul draws over 300 publishers

The International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair, organized in collaboration with Anadolu Agency (AA) as a global communication partner, has opened its doors at the Istanbul Fair Center.

This year’s fair, marking its ninth edition, aims to welcome 200,000 visitors with around 300 publishers from 30 countries.

The fair is organized by the Press and Publishing Association, the International Arabic Book Publishers Association, and the Turkish Publishers Association. It features a wide range of events, including book exhibitions, panel discussions and workshops.

Sumeyra Inanc, the fair coordinator, mentioned, “We are hosting nearly 300 publishers from 30 countries this year. Every day, three to four conferences are held, covering topics such as the Palestinian issue and subjects of interest to the Arab diaspora. We also have a language corner highlighting the connections between Arabic and Turkish words and an art exhibition showcasing works by various artists. Our primary goal is to address global issues.”

Focus on Arabic-Turkish publishing collaboration

Inanc highlighted that this event is the largest fair in Türkiye dedicated to Arabic book publishing. “This year, we have our second ‘Copywrite’ corner, where we facilitate discussions between Turkish and Arab publishers to enable Turkish-published works to reach readers in the Arab world,” she added.

She emphasized the importance of recognizing the cultural values of the Arab minority in Türkiye and supporting their needs in literature and culture.

“These communities have needs and contributions in literature and culture just like everyone else. We want to show the common ground we share,” Inanc noted.

Among the young visitors, Muhammed Dyab Agha shared his enthusiasm for the fair, saying, “I bought a book about Ottoman Sultans. My favorite sultan is Sultan Mehmed II. There are also fairy tale books, and books by (President Recep Tayyip) Erdogan and Atatürk here. The fair is very nice.”

Another child visitor, Hamza Hamad, mentioned that the fair was a pleasant surprise and that he was looking to buy books on Islamic history.

Several authors are expected to speak at the event, including Muhammed El Sahir who will deliver a talk on “The Importance of Studying the Biography for the Ummah” on Aug. 17.

On Aug. 18, Muhammed El Uvady will speak on “Brutality in Our Times,” and Muhammed Ilhami will present “From the Pages of History.”

The fair, opening under the slogan “Books Are the Future,” will conclude on Aug. 18.