Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's pavilion at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025 has been inaugurated by the Saudi Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission, presenting a dynamic cultural programme. The fair runs from April 24 to May 3, featuring participation from 35 countries and encompassing 674 publishing houses. Saudi Arabia's involvement aims to fortify cultural connections with the Sultanate of Oman and enhance knowledge-sharing initiatives, reflecting the Kingdom's Vision 2030. This vision positions culture not only as a vital contributor to development but also as an essential means of fostering intercultural dialogue.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Saudi Arabia's participation highlights the profound cultural ties shared between the two nations, with the fair serving as a crucial platform for bolstering the book and publishing industry. It also affords Saudi publishers the opportunity to engage in intellectual exchanges with their global counterparts. Leading the Kingdom's presence are key cultural and educational institutions, including the King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language, the King Abdulaziz Foundation for Research and Archives (Darah), the King Abdulaziz Public Library, the Ministry of Islamic Affairs, the King Fahd Complex for the Printing of the Holy Qur'an, the Saudi Publishing Association, and Taibah University.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
The Saudi pavilion features a comprehensive cultural programme filled with diverse events, such as literary seminars, panel discussions, and poetry evenings that showcase the richness and creativity of the Saudi cultural scene. Among the highlights is a seminar titled 'Features of Modern and Contemporary Saudi Poetry," which explores the evolution of Saudi poetry, from romanticism to experimentalism. Renowned writer Zakia Al-Harithi, alongside moderator Badr Al-Harithi, contributes to this engaging discussion.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Another notable event titled 'Realism and Magical Realism: Transformations in Gulf Narratives' sees writer Youssef Al-Mohaimeed providing an analytical perspective on the influence of magical realism in Gulf literature. Poet Tahani Subaih captivates the audience with a classical Arabic poetry evening that celebrates the aesthetic beauty of Arabic verse. The significance of traditional crafts is examined by Sulaiman Al-Suhaibani in his presentation "Handicrafts in Gulf Culture: Saudi Arabia and Oman as a Model," discussing how these crafts play a critical role in preserving cultural identity.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Dr. Hessa Al-Shammari leads a panel on 'Archaeological Sites in Saudi Arabia and Oman: Treasures of the Past and Future Prospects,' highlighting documentation and restoration efforts while emphasizing the importance of regional collaboration. Another intriguing session, 'Experimental Theatre: Between Breaking Rules and Creating New Languages,' invites Amal Al-Tamimi to explore innovative practices in Gulf and Arab experimental theatre. Additionally, Hamda Al-Enezi delves into the art of flash fiction, discussing its unique features and the challenges it presents.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
The Saudi cultural days also include discussions on the role of literature in promoting cultural tourism within the Arabian Gulf. Dr. Udai Al-Huraish presents insights on literature as a means of exploring cultural identity. Another session led by Dr. Rania Khoqair focuses on 'Traditional Gulf Attire in Literature and Art,' investigating how traditional garments are represented in novels and folk arts.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
The programme concludes with a session titled 'New Expatriate Poets: The Arab Poetry Experience in the Diaspora,' presented by Dr. Tanaff Al-Otaibi. This session explores themes of alienation and cultural interaction within poetry created by expatriates. Overall, the events aim to highlight the richness of the contemporary Saudi literary experience, bolstering cultural exchange with both regional and international literary and publishing communities.
Saudi Arabia Showcases a Vibrant Cultural Programme at the Muscat International Book Fair 2025
Through its presence at the Muscat International Book Fair, the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission seeks to promote investment opportunities within Saudi Arabia's cultural sector while underscoring the Kingdom's innovative initiatives. This effort reinforces Saudi Arabia's status as a regional cultural hub and supports the ongoing endeavour to develop channels for intercultural understanding.
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