The International Prize for Arabic Children’s Literature is making its presence felt at the 57th Cairo International Book Fair, running until February 3, 2026, at the Egypt International Exhibition Center. This literary event, presented by “E &,” is organized by the Emirates Board on Books for Young People and serves as a platform to champion Arabic children’s literature, highlighting its vital role in shaping the consciousness of future generations. With participation from 1,457 publishers across 83 countries, this year’s fair boasts significant international momentum, allowing the prize to engage with authors, illustrators, and publishers while exploring the latest trends in children’s literature and fostering cultural exchanges on both Arab and international levels.
Key Activities at the Fair
The presence of the International Prize for Arabic Children’s Literature has sparked considerable interest, drawing visits from numerous high-profile officials, including His Excellency Sheikh Salem bin Khalid Al Qasimi, UAE Minister of Culture, and His Excellency Dr. Ahmed Fouad Henu, Egyptian Minister of Culture. This turnout illustrates the considerable importance attached to children’s literature on the Arab cultural agenda. During the fair, the prize delegates engaged in a series of meetings with representatives from participating Emirati pavilions, reaffirming that children’s literature is among the most crucial cultural projects poised for the future.
Showcasing Award Winners
The prize delegation is dedicated to informing attendees about its various categories and nomination mechanisms. They also present the winning books from its seventeenth edition and those that made it to the shortlist, showcasing outstanding examples of Arabic children’s literature to visitors eager to explore new works. Moreover, the prize’s participation includes organizing discussions aimed at fostering a culture of reading and opening direct dialogues with individuals interested in children’s literature and its contemporary issues.
Promoting Reading Culture
Mawra Al Aqroubi, President of the Emirates Board on Books for Young People, emphasized that participating in the Cairo International Book Fair aims to enhance the visibility of the prize, given the event’s prominent cultural status and extensive regional and international attendance. The fair is an ideal platform for communicating the message of the prize and the board’s commitment to supporting Arabic children’s literature. This also encompasses encouraging creative production that meets children’s intellectual and aesthetic needs while reflecting the diversity of Arab experiences.
Vision for the Future
Al Aqroubi noted that this year’s fair slogan, “Those who stop reading are delayed by centuries,” aligns seamlessly with the prize’s vision, which is based on the belief that early childhood reading is foundational for developing an informed society capable of keeping pace with cultural and technological transformations. The prize’s objectives extend beyond merely recognizing winning works; it aims to cultivate an environment for book creators and enhance dialogue surrounding the future of Arabic children’s literature and its role in reinforcing identity and embracing global cultures.