Inauguration of 'Rabat: World Capital of Books' 2026
Morocco has officially inaugurated the celebrations for 'Rabat: World Capital of Books 2026' with a grand ceremony held on Friday at the Mohammed V Theatre in the capital. This event coincided with World Book Day and witnessed a significant turnout from both officials and artists. The celebration marks the occasion of the 31st edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair in Rabat, scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 10, featuring 890 exhibitors from 60 countries.
During the ceremony, Moroccan Minister of Youth, Culture, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid, received a symbolic book from the Brazilian ambassador to Morocco, Alexander Guido Lopez Barula. This gesture symbolizes the transfer of the title of World Capital of Books from Rio de Janeiro to Rabat, effective from April 24 until the same date next year.
The designation of World Capital of Books is awarded annually by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to promote books and reading among all demographic groups, both locally and internationally, since 2002. Previous cities that have received this honor include Alexandria, New Delhi, Montreal, Amsterdam, Bangkok, Athens, Sharjah, Kuala Lumpur, and Accra.
A Bridge for Cultural Dialogue
Minister Bensaid emphasized that the selection of Rabat as the World Capital of Books is not merely an honorary title but an international acknowledgment of Morocco's status as a beacon of thought and a bridge for cultural dialogue. He assured that an exceptional program is being prepared to bring literature from institutions into public spaces, transforming the city into an open library where global literature mingles with unique local characteristics.
The 'Rabat: World Capital of Books' program will encompass 342 activities, including awareness campaigns on the importance of reading, book exhibitions, mobile libraries, literary residencies, conferences for book professionals, and training workshops.
Furthermore, UNESCO's regional director for the Maghreb region and the organization's representative in Morocco, Sherif Ahmid, stated that Rabat exemplifies the dialogue between heritage and modernity, serving as a space for the exchange of ideas and knowledge.
The festive inauguration featured expressive dance performances choreographed by Najia Attaoui, musical interludes by the artist Sana Marhati, and readings that invoked Morocco's rich cultural memory, celebrating the legacy of various prominent figures in Moroccan thought and culture throughout history.
It is noteworthy that this celebration coincides with the 31st edition of the International Book and Publishing Fair in Rabat, which will also take place from May 1 to May 10, showcasing 890 exhibitors from 60 countries and honoring the famous traveler Ibn Battuta.
As reported by france24.com.
