Rabat the Capital of Morocco, is set to host a major global cultural celebration as it launches activities for the UNESCO World Book Capital 2026 alongside the 31st edition of the International Publishing and Book Fair (SIEL).
The dual event, held under the High Patronage of King Mohammed VI, will officially kick off on April 24, 2026, with the Book Fair scheduled to run from May 1 to 10, 2026.
The Moroccan capital is positioning itself as a global hub for culture and the knowledge economy, reaffirming its long-standing reputation as a crossroads of learning and creativity.
Rabat’s designation as a World Book Capital by UNESCO recognises the city’s rich cultural heritage, sustained investment in education, and growing publishing industry. With more than 54 publishing houses and an expanding network of bookstores, Rabat is increasingly playing a key role in promoting access to knowledge.
As part of the year-long programme, Morocco’s Ministry of Youth, Culture and Communication, in collaboration with national and international partners, will roll out 342 activities structured around 12 themes. The initiatives are designed to extend reading beyond traditional spaces by bringing books to hospitals, rehabilitation centres, orphanages, public squares, and transport systems.
A major highlight of the celebrations is SIEL, one of Africa’s largest book fairs, which will feature 890 exhibitors from 60 countries and showcase more than 130,000 titles. This year’s edition will have France as the guest of honour.
The fair will also pay tribute to renowned 14th-century Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta, with a focus on travel literature and its enduring influence.
Organisers say the event will host over 204 cultural activities and bring together more than 720 writers, thinkers, and creatives to explore contemporary reading challenges and innovations in the cultural and creative industries.
The World Book Capital initiative, led by UNESCO, encourages selected cities to promote books and reading for all age groups through inclusive, year-long programmes. Rabat becomes the 26th city to receive the designation, succeeding cities such as Accra (2023) and Rio de Janeiro (2025).
The initiative is supported by an advisory committee comprising key global organisations, including the International Publishers Association, International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions, and the International Authors Forum.
Organisers say the programme will not only celebrate literature but also strengthen the role of books as tools for education, inclusion, and sustainable development.
