Riyadh Reads French’ Initiative Returns to Riyadh Book Fair

The Riyadh International Book Fair 2024 welcomed the return of the “Riyadh Reads French” initiative, a cultural exchange program that first debuted in 2023 and has quickly become a highlight of the region’s largest literary event. Announced by the Saudi Press Agency (SPA), the initiative brought together more than 25,000 books and 118 French publishing houses, offering visitors a unique window into French language and culture. The French Embassy in Saudi Arabia, represented by communication officer Alsaeed Ezz, confirmed that this year’s edition expanded its activities, with a special emphasis on engaging children and families.

Context and Background

The Riyadh International Book Fair, organized annually by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission under the Ministry of Culture, has grown into one of the Middle East’s most influential literary gatherings. In 2024, the fair hosted over 2,000 publishing houses and agencies from more than 30 countries, occupying 800 pavilions at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center. The “Riyadh Reads French” initiative, launched in partnership with the French Embassy in Saudi Arabia and the Alliance Française in Riyadh, reflects the deepening cultural ties between the Kingdom and France. It also aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader efforts to promote cross-cultural dialogue and knowledge exchange under Vision 2030.

Key Details

According to Alsaeed Ezz, the 2024 edition of “Riyadh Reads French” was designed to enhance the visitor experience and broaden its reach. The Alliance Française in Riyadh offered free French language courses to fair attendees, aiming to make the language more accessible to Saudis and international visitors alike. A dedicated children’s section was introduced in response to the high turnout of families in the previous year. Specialized supervisors led activities such as drawing, reading, and expression, helping younger audiences connect with French culture in an engaging and age-appropriate manner.

Additionally, Campus France, the national agency for promoting French higher education, participated in the initiative. It collaborated with Saudi authorities to present scholarship programs for studying in France, available in both English and French, and provided guidance on obtaining bachelor’s and master’s degrees as well as conducting research in various fields. This effort supports Saudi students seeking international academic opportunities and strengthens educational cooperation between the two nations.

Implications and Impact

The return of “Riyadh Reads French” underscores the growing cultural and educational partnership between Saudi Arabia and France. By facilitating access to French literature, language courses, and academic pathways, the initiative enriches the Kingdom’s cultural landscape and offers Saudi youth new avenues for global engagement. The strong presence of French publishers also signals France’s recognition of the Saudi market’s potential and the fair’s role as a platform for international dialogue. Furthermore, the initiative complements Saudi Arabia’s efforts to foster a knowledge-based society and promote multilingualism, key objectives of Vision 2030.

Vision 2030 Alignment

The “Riyadh Reads French” initiative directly supports Vision 2030‘s cultural and educational goals. By expanding access to international literature, language learning, and study-abroad opportunities, it contributes to the development of a diversified, knowledge-driven economy. It also reinforces Saudi Arabia’s commitment to global cultural exchange, as outlined by the Ministry of Culture and the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission. As the Kingdom continues to host world-class events like the Riyadh International Book Fair, initiatives such as this demonstrate how cultural diplomacy can bridge nations and empower future generations.

20 Questions

Q1. What is the “Riyadh Reads French” initiative?

A1. It is a cultural program at the Riyadh International Book Fair that promotes French language and literature through exhibitions, language courses, and children’s activities, organized with the French Embassy and Alliance Française.

Q2. When did the “Riyadh Reads French” initiative first launch?

A2. The initiative was introduced in 2023 and returned for its second edition in 2024, expanding its activities and reach.

Q3. How many French publishing houses participated in 2024?

A3. A total of 118 French publishing houses participated, showcasing a wide range of French literature and cultural works.

Q4. How many books were featured in the initiative’s pavilions?

A4. Over 25,000 books were displayed across the initiative’s pavilions, covering various genres and subjects.

Q5. Who is Alsaeed Ezz?

A5. Alsaeed Ezz is the communication officer at the French Embassy in Saudi Arabia, who provided details about the initiative’s goals and activities.

Q6. What new focus did the 2024 edition emphasize?

A6. The 2024 edition placed a special emphasis on children, with a dedicated section and activities tailored to young visitors.

Q7. What activities were offered for children?

A7. Children participated in drawing, reading, and expression activities supervised by specialists to introduce them to French culture.

Q8. Did the Alliance Française offer any language courses?

A8. Yes, the Alliance Française in Riyadh provided free French language courses to fair visitors, making the language more accessible.

Q9. What is Campus France’s role in the initiative?

A9. Campus France facilitated information on studying in French universities, including scholarship programs and degree requirements.

Q10. What types of scholarships were promoted?

A10. Scholarships for studying in both English and French were highlighted, covering bachelor’s, master’s, and research programs.

Q11. How many publishing houses participated in the overall fair?

A11. Over 2,000 publishing houses and agencies from Saudi Arabia, the region, and the world took part in the fair.

Q12. How many countries were represented at the fair?

A12. More than 30 countries were represented, occupying 800 pavilions at the event.

Q13. Where was the Riyadh International Book Fair held?

A13. The fair was held at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Conference Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Q14. Who organizes the Riyadh International Book Fair?

A14. The fair is organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission under the Ministry of Culture.

Q15. Why is the initiative important for Saudi-French relations?

A15. It strengthens cultural and educational ties, fostering mutual understanding and cooperation between Saudi Arabia and France.

Q16. How does the initiative support Saudi students?

A16. It provides information on scholarships and academic pathways in France, helping Saudi students pursue higher education abroad.

Q17. What was the visitor response to the initiative?

A17. The initiative attracted significant attention and a large number of visitors, particularly families with children.

Q18. How does the initiative align with Vision 2030?

A18. It promotes cultural exchange, education, and knowledge-based development, key pillars of Vision 2030.

Q19. Will the initiative continue in future editions?

A19. While no official announcement has been made, the success of the 2024 edition suggests strong potential for continuation.

Q20. What broader impact does the fair have on Saudi Arabia’s cultural scene?

A20. It reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role as a regional hub for literature and culture, attracting global participation and enriching local cultural offerings.

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