The 31st International Publishing and Book Fair (SIEL) concluded on Sunday, May 10, 2026, in Rabat, drawing a record-breaking crowd of over 502,000 visitors.
Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication announced that the event, held under the patronage of King Mohammed VI and inaugurated by Crown Prince Moulay El Hassan, successfully reinforced Rabat’s growing reputation as a global cultural capital. This year’s fair carried additional weight as it coincided with Rabat’s designation as the World Book Capital 2026, a title that highlights the city’s central role in the international literary landscape.
The ten-day gathering featured a massive display of 135,000 titles and nearly three million copies of publications, presented by 891 exhibitors from over 60 countries. A major highlight was the selection of France as the guest of honor, which organizers noted as a “new chapter” in the historical and multidimensional relationship between the two nations. This cultural bridge allowed for a rich program of exchange, bringing together world-renowned thinkers, researchers, and artists to engage with the public in one of the continent’s most significant intellectual forums.
Beyond the international spotlight, the ministry emphasized that the fair remained deeply rooted in local heritage by paying tribute to established Moroccan writers and researchers who have shaped the nation’s cultural identity. At the same time, the event served as a vital incubator for the future, providing a dedicated platform for emerging talents to showcase their work. The high attendance figures and the diversity of the literary offerings underscore the SIEL’s success in meeting public expectations while solidifying Morocco’s influence within the global publishing industry.
AK/Sf/lb/abj/APA