Doha: The curtains rose on the 35th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) on Thursday, as the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC) welcomed book lovers, publishers, and literary figures from across the globe for what organisers are calling the largest edition in the event’s 54-year history.
Organised by Qatar’s Ministry of Culture, the fair runs from 14 to 23 May 2026 and is free to the public. This year’s edition surpasses all previous records, featuring 910 exhibition booths, over 1.85 million books, and approximately 231,000 titles from 520 publishing houses spanning 37 Arab and international countries.
A Milestone in Qatar’s Cultural Vision
The Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Dr Ghanem bin Mubarak Al Ali, described the 35th edition as a landmark moment in Qatar’s cultural journey. Speaking at the opening ceremony, he noted that the fair reflects “a national vision centred on human development and intellectual growth,” and reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to organising world-class cultural events that strengthen national identity and keep pace with global cultural transformations.
“The continued organisation of the Doha International Book Fair demonstrates Qatar’s dedication to investing in knowledge as a foundation for long-term development and innovation,” Dr Al Ali said.
A Programme Packed with Literary Energy
Beyond the vast exhibition halls, the fair boasts a rich programme of intellectual events. Visitors can look forward to 143 new book launches, 46 panel discussions, 69 workshops, and 46 seminars on the fair’s main stage. More than 100 new publications by Qatari authors and residents will also be unveiled during the 10-day event.
Jassim Ahmed Al Buainain, Director of the Doha International Book Fair, highlighted that the cultural programme would bring together writers, intellectuals, and academics from Qatar and abroad for wide-ranging discussions on literature, society, and thought. A dedicated cultural salon will host book signings and author dialogue sessions throughout the fair.
Spotlight on Young Readers
This year’s edition places particular emphasis on children and young readers. A dedicated Doha Children’s Zone will offer interactive activities, performances, and storytelling sessions for young audiences. Ahead of the opening, organisers launched a mobile library bus that visited around 12 schools across Qatar, encouraging a culture of reading among students.
Qatar National Library is also participating with an interactive booth featuring its AI-powered “Literary Twin” experience, which analyses visitors’ reading habits and matches them with an author whose literary voice aligns with their personality.
Regional and International Participation
The fair drew significant regional attention, with Saudi Arabia’s Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission inaugurating its national pavilion on opening day. Qatar Museums (QM) is also showcasing a range of publications, activities, and cultural offerings at its dedicated stand.
The second Doha International Book Fair Award will be announced during the event, with six categories recognising outstanding contributions by Qatari and international authors and publishers.
A Tradition of Knowledge
First launched in 1972, the Doha International Book Fair began as a small, biennial local exhibition before evolving into one of the Arab world’s most prestigious literary events. Since becoming an annual fixture in 2002, it has grown into a cornerstone of Qatar’s cultural calendar, a ten-day celebration of books, ideas, and the enduring power of the written word.
The fair is open daily from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, with Friday hours from 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM. Entry is free for all visitors.
Video Courtesy: Ministry of Culture
