The Minister of Culture, Youth, and Communication, Mohamed Mehdi Bensaid fully embraces the vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI to make Rabat the capital of culture. The proclamation of ISESCO, identifying Rabat as the cultural capital of the Islamic world for 2022, provides a strong endorsement of this ambition.

The carefully considered decision to permanently host the International Book and Publishing Fair (SIEL) in Rabat fuels this endeavor. This decision is based on solid data accumulated during the last edition. "During last year's conference, I said that the success of the edition in Rabat would be decisive in whether the Fair would be organized in Rabat again, and the edition was a success according to the publishers and also in terms of achievements of the Fair.” said Mr. Mohammed Mehdi Bensaid during the press conference of the 28th edition.

The latest edition of the fair was a resounding success, with over 202,089 visitors, 100,000 books on display, and a turnover of around 115 million dirhams. This proves a remarkable achievement that garners recognition both nationally and internationally, thus demonstrating the relevance of the decision to organize SIEL in Rabat.

Hosting a multitude of cultural landmarks such as theaters, cultural institutes, exhibition galleries, Villa des Arts, as well as the National Library housing over 350,000 works, Rabat has long been recognized as a city imbued with great cultural significance. However, it is now ready to reach new heights with the permanent hosting of the International Book and Publishing Fair.

A promising 28th edition of diversity and accessibility

Once again, OLM Souissi, the iconic venue of the capital, will accommodate the International Book Fair, with a 17% expansion of the event space and larger and more diverse exhibitions. With 737 exhibitors, over 120,000 titles, and 221 cultural encounters, SIEL 2023 stands out for its impressive scale and unprecedented cultural diversity.

The International Book Fair continues to highlight African literature. The event remains fully committed to promoting the immense literary heritage of the African continent.

This year's edition also offers a range of facilities for its audience such as bus routes, 50% discount on trains for youth pass holders. Moreover, access to the fair will be free for people with special needs.

These facilities testify the devotion of SIEL to promote reading by making this cultural event an inclusive space where the passion for books can be shared and celebrated by all.