The 55th edition of Cairo International Book Fair (CIBF), which drew curtains yesterday (6 February, 2024), registered a record number of book lovers who thronged the sprawling halls of the Egypt International Exhibition Center (EIEC).
The two-week long extravaganza (opened on 24 January, 2024) organized by the General Egyptian Book Organization (GEBO) had around 4.8 million visitors – the highest so far since its beginning in 1969 – according to statistics revealed by Egypt’s Ministry of Culture.
The exhibition featured around 1,200 publishers and 5,250 exhibitors from 70 countries. Beyond the vast selection of books, CIBF doubles up as a cultural event with a series of seminars, cinema screenings, theatre performances, art exhibitions, and music concerts. GEBO Chairman Ahmed Bahy El-Din said that this year’s fair attracted a record-breaking number of visitors, publishing houses, participating countries, cultural activities, and artistic programmes.
As the guest of honour, Norway introduced its distinctive culture to the visitors with a series of seminars and cultural events. Another highlight was the participation of the National Council for Persons with Disabilities, which showcased the talents and abilities of people of determination in the form of drawings, paintings, and handmade handicrafts.
The Cairo International Book Fair is considered one of the largest and oldest book fairs in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.
