People visiting the 34th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) yesterday. Pic: Oussama Abbassi / The Peninsula
Doha: The 34th edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) launched yesterday at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center (DECC), running until May 17 under the theme “From Engraving to Writing.”
Old scripture writing at full display at opening day of DIBF on May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
Inaugurated on Thursday May 8, 2025 by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs HE Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al-Thani, this year’s fair, the largest in its history, features 522 publishing houses from 43 countries, with Palestine as the guest of honor.
The Palestinian display at opening day of DIBF on May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
For the first time, 11 Palestinian publishers are participating, showcasing cultural artifacts and publications that highlight the rich history of the indigenous people of the Holy Land.
The fair boasts a strong presence of Arabic publications from across the Arab world, reflecting the region’s vibrant literary heritage.
A range of Arabic publications at opening day of DIBF on May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
However, English-language publishers, including Oxford University Press, Harvard University Press, and Samarkand, also drew significant attention.
Despite the predominance of Arabic content, the turnout for English books was impressive, demonstrating a consistent interest in both Arabic and English literature among attendees.
Ifran Ullah, staff member at the Oxford University Press at opening day of DIBF on May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
Irfan Ullah, a Pakistani staff member working with Oxford University Press, shared his observations about the fair’s diverse audience: “There are so many people coming from all over the world. Mostly from Arabic countries, but some people are coming from English countries as well. I meet so many people from Germany too. They are asking for original books, new books, and we have a lot of books: dictionaries, science, philosophy, history, and even children’s books.” He added, “Today there are a lot of people coming here, and it’s only the first day. I’m very happy to see young people especially; they are coming and asking for books. It’s really nice to see this great outreach for English-language publications in the middle of a sea of Arabic content.” A standout feature of this year’s edition is the integration of cutting-edge technology and AI to enhance the visitor experience.
Large multimedia touch screens allow readers to navigate book availability with ease, while holographic displays showcase publications in innovative ways.
Large screens at disposal of visitors of DIBF on opening day May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
A robot assisting visitors around the fair added a futuristic touch, complemented by a dedicated team of volunteers and organizers ensuring the event runs smoothly.
The fair places a strong emphasis on children’s literature, with a dedicated area hosting a rich array of cultural and interactive activities, as well as educational books from publishers specialising in children’s content.
Child-friendly activities at opening day of DIBF on May 8, 2025. Photo by Oussama Abbassi.
Additional services for visitors include a Reading Guide, an “Ask Me” helpdesk, a porter service, and free parking.
The public is encouraged to attend this unique opportunity to engage directly with authors, publishers, intellectuals, and poets from Qatar and beyond.
The fair is open daily from 9am to 10pm, with Friday hours starting from 3pm till 10pm.
