CIBF to Launch 57th Edition on Jan. 21

Ahmed Maghd, Chief Executive Officer of the Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF) , said final preparations are underway for the launch of the fair’s 57th edition, which is scheduled to officially open on January 21 under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi.

In televised remarks, Maghd said preparations are proceeding according to a clear timetable, stressing that the Cairo International Book Fair continues to be the largest cultural and artistic event in the Arab world. He noted that this year’s edition carries a distinctive vision reflected in its programs and activities, highlighting the fair’s ongoing development and responsiveness to the interests of a diverse audience.

Maghd announced that Nobel laureate Naguib Mahfouz has been named the fair’s Personality of the Year, marking 20 years since his passing. He added that the theme of the edition is inspired by one of Mahfouz’s well-known quotes promoting reading and knowledge.

He explained that encouraging reading, particularly among younger generations, is a key focus of this year’s fair, alongside continued engagement with major cultural and intellectual issues, including national identity and literary and artistic discourse.

According to Maghd, data analysis from the previous edition showed that nearly 80 percent of visitors were young people, prompting the launch of youth-focused programs and seminars. These include the “A Generation Reads the World in Its Own Way” series, which hosts writers and creators under the age of 40.