Muscat, Oman, 2nd May– The 29th edition of the Muscat International Book Fair concluded with remarkable success, attracting more than 5,82,000 visitors between April 23 and May 2, 2025, at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. This record-breaking attendance underscores the fair’s growing significance as a cornerstone of the region’s cultural and intellectual life.
This year’s edition, themed “Cultural Diversity: Enriching Civilisations,” brought together 674 publishers from 35 countries, including India, offering a staggering 600,000 titles in Arabic and various foreign languages. Among these were over 19,000 works by Omani authors, reflecting the Sultanate’s thriving literary landscape.
The Muscat International Book Fair is thoughtfully designed to be an essential cultural event for all generations, fostering a love of reading, encouraging intellectual dialogue, and bridging the gap between tradition and modernity. By offering a diverse range of books, interactive programs, and educational activities, it nurtures curiosity in young minds while providing a vibrant space for scholars, writers, and thinkers to engage with the wider community.
“This Book Fair serves as a cultural hub, drawing in families seeking enriching experiences as well as the intellectual elite who regard it as a vital platform for literary exchange and thought leadership,” said Sheikh Al Mahrouqi, the director general of International media. “The overwhelming turnout—exceeding half a million visitors—demonstrates the fair’s significance not only for Omanis but also for our many international guests.”
This year’s fair featured more than 211 cultural programs and 155 dedicated children’s activities, including storytelling sessions, workshops, and author meet-and-greets. India’s participation brought additional depth to the event, with a strong representation of Indian literature, educational publishers, and cultural showcases that resonated with the diverse audience.
As the fair continues to grow in size and influence, organizers hope it will further solidify Oman’s position as a regional hub for literature, education, and cultural dialogue.