The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

The annual Cairo International Book Fair is returning for its 55th installment from the 24th of January to the 6th of February! This coveted event is known for attracting publishers, authors, and book enthusiasts alike, providing a platform for publishers to showcase their latest releases while also promoting cultural exchange and fostering a love for reading. 

Organised by the General Egyptian Book Organization (GEBO), the two-week-long event features a wide range of activities, including book signings, panel discussions, and workshops. Visitors have the opportunity to explore a diverse collection of books from all genres, from fiction to children’s literature, academic publications, and so much more. 

Running since 1969, the fair will celebrate its 55th edition in 2024, with the 25th of January being the first day open to the public since entry during the opening on the 24th will be invitation-based. The fair will run from 10 am every day until 8 pm on weekdays and 9 pm on Fridays and Saturdays. 

To facilitate access, buses will be available from Cairo’s major squares, and more details will be announced before the start of the fair through this link.

You will be able to pre-purchase your ticket through their website when they announce their prices. The fair will be held at the Egypt Exhibition Centre in New Cairo, and you can also buy your tickets at the door. 

This year’s guest of honour is the country of Norway, and the Fair’s honourary author for the children’s section is Yacoub El Sharouny. The Fair’s honorary author for the year is Selim Hasan, an Egyptian Egyptologist whose work made a lasting impact in a profession dominated by non-Egyptians during his time, breaking taboos and becoming a pioneering figure. Selim Hassan has published around 53 books and tens of articles on Egyptology in Arabic, English, and French, including ‘Excavations at Giza’, ‘Excavations at Sakkara’, and ‘Encyclopaedia of Ancient Egypt History’ – an 18-volume piece which took Hassan 20 years to complete.