Ithra Showcases Saudi Creativity and Cultural Excellence at Riyadh International Book Fair
Riyadh – The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture, known as Ithra and an initiative of Saudi Aramco, is celebrating Saudi creativity and promoting cultural exchange at its pavilion at the Riyadh International Book Fair, running until October 11.
Participating for the 12th consecutive year, Ithra is offering visitors an immersive experience that highlights the Kingdom’s rich heritage and innovative contributions to literature, art, and knowledge.
The pavilion is thoughtfully divided into four sections, beginning with an introductory area showcasing Ithra’s key facilities, including its library, museum, theater, and cinema.
Visitors can explore two dedicated zones for library programs, featuring workshops, discussion panels, and interactive sessions designed to inspire curiosity and learning. In addition, a bookstore highlights Ithra’s latest titles spanning philosophy, literature, art, and heritage, giving attendees a chance to engage with unique content.
Abdullah Al-Hawas, director of Ithra, emphasized the center’s commitment to fostering cultural dialogue and knowledge sharing. “Every year, Ithra brings fresh ideas to the Riyadh International Book Fair.
This year, under the theme ‘Riyadh Reads,’ we are presenting 13 new publications covering philosophy, literature, and art, most of which were recently produced,” he said.
Among the most popular titles is The Mu’allaqat for the Millennial Generation, which makes classical Arabic poetry accessible to today’s readers. Another acclaimed publication, Arabic Proverbs for the New Generation, features over 150 Arabic proverbs with insightful commentary, encouraging readers to reconnect with their linguistic and cultural heritage.
Ithra also presents Hijra: In the Footsteps of the Prophet, detailing the historic eight-day journey from Makkah to Madinah, along with books on camels, crafts, and philosophy, all carefully selected for their cultural significance.
Ithra’s publications have gained international recognition through translations into Spanish, German, Korean, Chinese, French, and English, reflecting the center’s mission to share Arab culture with global audiences. The Ithra Library, one of Saudi Arabia’s largest and first fully digital libraries, spans four floors, housing over 357,000 books and thousands of digital resources.
As a cultural hub, Ithra hosts engaging programs such as the Ithra Reading Club, Majaz poetry celebrations, Ithra Library Saturdays, Your Book in a Minute, and Bridges to the World, promoting literary creativity, knowledge exchange, and cultural appreciation.
Through its dynamic participation in the Riyadh International Book Fair, Ithra continues to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s position as a center for culture, learning, and innovation, inspiring readers of all ages to explore and celebrate the richness of Arab heritage.
