Saudi Gazette report
JEDDAH —The Jeddah Book Fair 2025, which kicked off at the Jeddah Superdome on Thursday, features screening of Saudi films for the first time. The festival of books, under the slogan “Jeddah Reads,” will run through until Dec. 20.Visitors are welcomed daily from 12:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., except on Fridays, when it opens at 2:00 p.m.

More than 1,000 local and international publishing houses and agencies from 24 countries are participating in the fair with 400 booths. This cultural event, by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, is regarded as one of the Kingdom’s major literary platforms, bringing together publishers, creators, and book enthusiasts.

CEO of the Commission Dr. Abdullatif Al-Wasel stated that the fair reflects the commission’s advanced efforts in developing the publishing industry, supporting creative talent, and enhancing the presence of Saudi publishers and writers.

The exhibition features more than 170 cultural events, ranging from seminars and panel discussions to lectures, poetry readings, and various workshops. The program includes presentations by prominent writers and thinkers, as well as a dedicated children’s area.

The book fair includes a special program for local film productions, and will see daily screenings of critically acclaimed Saudi films on the main stage, with support from the Daw (light) for Film Support program and in partnership with the Film Commission.

The fair celebrates Saudi creativity and supports cultural narratives in all their forms—written, visual, and audio. The events also include a children's area with interactive programs that blend culture and entertainment, aiming to cultivate the creative skills of children and young adults.

The exhibition continues to support local talent through the Saudi Authors’ Corner, which showcases self-published titles and allows authors to present their work directly to the public. Book signing platforms offer an opportunity to meet authors and obtain signed copies. Cultural organizations, community institutions, and universities also present their initiatives and latest publications throughout the exhibition.

The book fair will also feature five workshops on journalism skills, digital crisis management, children's story writing, personal branding, and the impact of early reading on linguistic and cognitive development.