JEDDAH: Under the slogan “Jeddah Reads,” the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission inaugurated the Jeddah Book Fair 2025 on Thursday at the Jeddah Superdome, launching one of the city’s largest annual cultural gatherings. 

This year’s edition brings together more than 1,000 local and international publishing houses and agencies from 24 countries, spread across 400 booths, reinforcing the fair’s position as a major regional hub for creativity, knowledge exchange, and cultural engagement. 

Bassam Al-Bassam, general manager of the Publishing General Department, praised the steady development of the fair since the commission assumed responsibility for organising Saudi book fairs in 2021. 

“Since the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission began organizing Saudi book fairs in 2021, we have witnessed a significant increase in visitor numbers, as well as a noticeable rise in publishing-house sales,” he told Arab News. 

Commenting on the broader publishing landscape in the Kingdom, Al-Bassam said the sector is undergoing structural improvements. 

“The commission provides a package of supportive initiatives across literature, publishing, and translation to support the sector, improve quality, and elevate outcomes.” 

He also highlighted the commission’s work on regulatory reforms. “We are currently developing the sector’s core regulations and policies to facilitate the publishing process in Saudi Arabia … and enhance the sector’s overall value.” 

Regarding international partnerships, Al-Bassam said: “We provide proper infrastructure and host book fairs across various regions of the Kingdom ... opening doors for Saudi publishers to pursue international cooperation and partnerships, ultimately exporting Saudi culture abroad.” 

He added that the commission’s participation in leading global book fairs further supports the global presence of Saudi publications. 

For the first time, the fair is hosting a dedicated program for local film production, featuring daily screenings of acclaimed Saudi films supported by the “Dhaw” Film Support Program and organized in collaboration with the Film Commission. 

The initiative highlights the rise of Saudi visual storytelling and strengthens the integration between cultural and artistic sectors. 

With more than 170 cultural events, including panel discussions, lectures, poetry evenings, and specialized workshops, the fair continues to expand its role as a full-spectrum cultural platform. 

A dedicated children’s area offers interactive activities that nurture creativity and foster a love of reading among young visitors. 

Cultural institutions, universities, and community organizations are also showcasing their latest publications and initiatives during the fair. 

Other features include a manga and anime zone, a discounted books section, and a Handicrafts Corner celebrating the 2025 Year of Handicrafts by introducing visitors to traditional crafts and supporting Saudi artisans. 

Among participating publishing houses is Kadi and Ramadi, a Saudi specialist in children's books, which celebrates its 20th anniversary this year. 

Founder Thuraya Batarji expressed her joy at returning to the fair during such a milestone. 

She said the publishing house has released special anniversary editions of key titles, noting their continued commitment to both the Jeddah and Riyadh book fairs. 

As a prominent figure in children’s literature, Batarji emphasized the importance of reading from infancy. “The secret to instilling the value of reading in children is to start at a very early age, even from three to six months.” 

She added that shared reading sessions between parents and children strengthen their bond with books and foster critical-thinking skills as young readers grow. 

The opening day also drew young visitors who had grown up attending the Jeddah Book Fair. 

Sara Al-Malki, 16, from Jeddah, described the event as an essential part of her life. 

“I’ve been coming to this fair since I was a little girl,” she said. “Starting the weekend here feels special. The atmosphere, the books, the publishers I love, it all brings back memories and makes me excited for what’s new.” 

She said that visiting her favourite publishing houses on opening day has become a personal tradition, adding that the fair has influenced her love of reading and her dream of becoming a writer. 

“This fair feels like home,” she said. “Every year it grows, and every year I grow with it.”