Cairo International Book Fair
The Cairo International Book Fair is the largest and oldest book fair in the Arab world. It happens every year in Cairo, Egypt, at the Egypt International Exhibitions Center in New Cairo, during the last week of January. It is organized by the General Egyptian Book Organisation (GEBO).
Thousands of book sellers from around the world take part, and about 1 to 2 million visitors come each year. In 2006 the fair was the second largest in the world after Frankfurt. GEBO is also the biggest publisher in the Arab world.
The fair features booths, talks, readings, and performances. Books and media are shown in Arabic, English, and other languages. It runs for nearly three weeks and aims to attract everyday Egyptians with mainstream topics, outdoor events, and even fireworks.
History and highlights: The fair started in 1969 to mark Cairo’s 1,000th anniversary. The 41st edition was held in 2009 from January 21 to February 5. In November 2018, GEBO announced it would publish 100 new books under its name at the fair.
Controversies: Over the years, some books or authors were banned or seized by authorities. There were protests, including in 2000 when clashes occurred over a novel. In 2005 several book sellers were arrested. The fair was canceled in January 2011 during the Egyptian revolution and returned in 2012 with many works tied to the Arab Spring.
Today the fair remains a major event for Arabic publishing and a hub for books and culture in the region. The 50th edition was celebrated in 2019.
This page was last edited on 2 February 2026, at 03:22 (CET).