The digital embrace exemplifies a shift in digital mood in the Egyptian publishing sector that publishers in other Arab countries would do well to follow closely and to emulate where possible.
Late 2021-early 2022 has seen Middle East book fairs buck the trend of Covid-19-enforced postponements and cancellations, with the Doha International Book Fair ongoing in Qatar as this post goes live, and the hugely successful Sharjah International Book Fair (“only” 1.7 million visitors in 2021) in the rear view mirror.
Just ahead of us the 53rd Cairo International Book Fair will be looking to regain its crown as the world’s largest book fair (in good years exceeding Sharjah’s routine 2 million plus visitors) is set to run January 26 through February 7 (extended by one day from original scheduling).
Last year a subdued 52nd Cairo IBF was held in June amid continuing Covid concerns and a Middle East summer climate, so it’s hoped this time the climate at least will be in the fair’s favour. Greece will be Guest of Honour for the 2022 incarnation.
This year the Higher Committee of the Cairo International Book Fair had decided to award a L.E 40,000. ($2,500) prize to the best Arab publisher, the first of its kind in the annual Cairo International Book Fair Awards.
Over 1,000 publishers across 51 countries are set to participate in the 53rd CIBF, which will have a decidedly bold digital flavour, not least with an interactive hologram of the late novelist Yehia Haqi, while the late Egyptian children’s author Abdel Tawab Youssef will be the highlight, with a short story shown in virtual reality.
Last year a digital platform for ebooks was trialled at the postponed summer fair, after the success of which the ebook platform returns in style this year, while for print books Egyptian Post is working closely with the fair organisers and the Ministry of Culture to ensure swift deliveries of books ordered at the event.
The digital embrace exemplifies a shift in digital mood in the Egyptian publishing sector that publishers in other Arab countries would do well to follow closely and to emulate where possible.
