Riyadh International Book Fair 2025: Diversity, Creativity, and Human Dialogue

Riyadh – BETH | October 10, 2025

The Saudi capital has transformed into a beacon of knowledge, illuminating the paths of thought under the theme “Riyadh Reads”.
The Riyadh International Book Fair 2025, organized by the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University, was not merely a marketplace for books—it was a global arena for dialogue and enlightenment.

 Pavilions Speaking the Languages of the World

European publishing houses presented their classical heritage alongside contemporary literature, while China captivated visitors with a vibrant pavilion showcasing its rich cultural legacy and modern intellect through an immersive experience.
Sweden attracted families with its popular “500 Facts” series and science encyclopedias for young readers, while Britain drew the attention of intellectuals with two critical works — “Forgot the Books” by Mahmoud Abdel Shakour and “A Break Between Books” by Ibrahim Abdel Meguid — that redefined the relationship between readers and texts.

💡 Development and Creativity in the Age of AI

Dr. Ayed Al-Qahtani launched his new book “Modern Trends in Sustainable Development: Creativity – Digital Transformation – Artificial Intelligence,” presenting a vision that links social responsibility, creative economy, and digital innovation.
He emphasizes that true development is not measured by digital progress alone, but by achieving balance between humanity, technology, and society.

 Najdi Engravings… The Memory of Beauty

The workshop “Najdi Engravings” by Najah Al-Omari revived the heritage of Saudi decorative art — once carved into wooden doors and windows — as a cultural symbol and living memory connecting the past with the modern architectural identity.

 From Manga to Fine Art

In her workshop “Create Your Own World,” Fatimah Bukhamsin explored how Arab culture can inspire manga storytelling and character design, blending local identity with global creativity.
Meanwhile, artist Mohammed Al-Naqidan led “How to Be Creative,” calling for the establishment of a Saudi School of Fine Art that embodies a distinctive national aesthetic.

🌐 Translation… The Bridge of Civilizations

The panel “Worlds of Translation: Between Creativity and Industry” highlighted the rise of Saudi translators and the pivotal role of the Saudi Translation Association in transforming translation into a sustainable national industry.
Speakers affirmed that translation today goes beyond conveying meaning—it conveys human experience, and that technology should be embraced as a partner, not a rival.

 One Universal Language: Culture

Every corner of the fair opened a new chapter in the Book of Enlightenment.
When Riyadh reads, the world speaks one universal language…
The language of culture.