A new and exceptional edition of the Damascus International Book Fair opened Thursday, Feb. 5, in the Syrian capital at Exhibition City under the slogan “History We Write… History We Read.” The 2026 fair marks the first session held following the fall of the Assad regime.
The 10-day event features the participation of over 500 prominent Arab and international publishing houses, representing over 35 Arab and foreign countries. The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Qatar are the guests of honor for this edition.
Beyond Exhibits: Awards and Initiatives for Creatives
The fair’s pavilions display more than 100,000 titles across a wide range of fields. Its cultural program includes over 650 activities, such as intellectual seminars, dialogue sessions, and literary and artistic evenings, making it one of the largest cultural events in the country after a five-year hiatus.
The program also includes the launch of seven cultural awards aimed at supporting creativity, young writers, and publishers. Several accompanying initiatives were announced, including the “My First Book” initiative to publish 100 new titles in 2026, the “Damascus Fellowship” translation program, and the “Emerging Path” initiative to support young talents in publishing and writing.
Syria’s Cultural Role Reaffirmed
Commenting on what distinguishes this edition from previous ones, Minister of Higher Education and Scientific Research Marwan Halabi told Levant24 that “the fair is evidence that Damascus remains a true incubator of science and knowledge in the Arab world.” He added that the event underscores the book’s enduring leadership in Syria’s cultural and intellectual life.
Halabi praised the strong Arab and international participation of publishing houses, noting that it “reflects the return of confidence in Syria’s cultural and media landscape.” Regarding the ministry’s involvement, Halabi explained all universities, colleges, institutes, the Arabic Language Academy, and research centers are participating through over 40 exhibition stands.
In a statement to Levant24, the minister called on faculty members, researchers, and students to attend the fair and explore the latest publications, emphasizing the continued importance of physcial books “no matter how much digital knowledge advances.”
Book Fair’s Role in the New Syria
Speaking to Levant24, Michael Ohnmacht, chargé d’affaires of the European Union Delegation to Syria, expressed his pleasure at participating in the fair. He stressed that cultural exhibitions are just as important as the economic events recently held in Syria, affirming that the book fair will play a vital role in shaping cultural life in the new Syria.
