The International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair, held in partnership with Anadolu Agency (AA), took place at the Istanbul Expo Center from August 10-18, bringing together a diverse group of local and international participants from the world of culture, art, and literature. Organized by the Press and Publishing Association, the International Association of Arabic Book Publishers, and the Turkish Press and Publishing Professional Association, this ninth edition of the fair showcased a wide range of events, talks, exhibitions, and workshops where publishing houses from Turkey and abroad presented their works to eager readers.
One of the highlights of the fair was the participation of the Palestinian Cultural House, with director Samir Atiye noting that this was their fourth time attending. Atiye mentioned the significant interest in their stand, not only for books but also for cultural items like T-shirts and hats. He highlighted the growing interest from Turkish visitors, especially in light of recent events in Palestine, with many expressing a desire to support Palestinian culture. The Palestinian Cultural House is dedicated to publishing books related to Palestinian resistance, with plans to translate these works into Turkish in the near future.
Another featured artist at the fair was Syrian painter Tuka Mamo, who shared her unique perspective on art and culture. Mamo, who has been painting for seven years, showcased her work which prominently featured symbols of Islam and faith. Her pieces resonated with visitors of all ages, drawing attention to the beauty and strength of Islamic heritage. Mamo expressed her gratitude to both Arab and Turkish attendees for their support, emphasizing the unity and shared cultural values that bring everyone together at the fair.
Representatives from international organizations also participated in the fair, such as Imad Arabi from the International Doha Book Awards and Sameh Alkhalaf from the Swedish Arabic Publishers Association. Arabi highlighted the importance of Istanbul as a cultural bridge, bringing together writers and publishers from diverse backgrounds. Alkhalaf noted the unique appeal of their stand as the only one from Sweden, attracting attention from visitors due to the scarcity of Arabic speakers in the country. Both representatives expressed their satisfaction with the fair and their intention to continue participating in the future.
Overall, the International Istanbul Arabic Book Fair proved to be a vibrant and enriching event that celebrated the richness of Arabic culture and literature. With a diverse range of participants, engaging events, and a shared passion for art and literature, the fair served as a valuable platform for cultural exchange and collaboration. As the fair continues to grow in popularity and scope, it promises to be a must-visit event for anyone interested in exploring the world of Arabic books and culture.