Doha, Qatar. The 33rd Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) was inaugurated by Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs H E Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, with the theme "Knowledge Builds Civilizations". The event, held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, will run from May 9th until 18th. Among the dignitaries attending the inauguration was Minister of Culture, Sports, and Youth of the Sultanate of Oman, H H Sayyid Theyazin bin Haitham Al Said, along with several other esteemed guests including sheikhs, ministers, heads of diplomatic missions, and senior officials.
During his visit to the exhibition pavilions, the Prime Minister explored the diverse offerings from Qatari, Arab, and international exhibitors, including the latest publications, books, and manuscripts from various government agencies, cultural institutions, and embassies accredited to Qatar, with special emphasis on Oman, the honored guest of this edition. The Omani pavilion showcased a rich cultural program highlighting the country's heritage, intellectual and literary output, and featured a range of artistic performances. Additionally, the Prime Minister toured the expansive Doha Children section, offering workshops, activities, and cultural programs tailored for young visitors.
Featuring over 515 publishing houses from 42 countries and showcasing more than 180,000 new titles across various fields of knowledge and science, the 33rd DIBF underscores the importance of knowledge in advancing civilizations. With the Sultanate of Oman as the guest of honor, the fair celebrates Omani culture through a dedicated pavilion and a diverse cultural program.
Numerous dignitaries, ministers, and officials praised the fair for its contribution to Qatar's cultural landscape and its role in strengthening the country's position in the Arab and international arenas.
Minister of Transport, H E Jassim Saif Ahmed Al Sulaiti, highlighted the fair's continuous growth in terms of participation, organization, and creative design, noting an annual increase of about 30% in the number of exhibitors. He emphasized the fair's significance in providing access to knowledge and bolstering Qatar's cultural standing.
Minister of Justice and Minister of State for Cabinet Affairs, H E Ibrahim bin Ali bin Issa Al Hassan Al Mohannadi, underscored Qatar's commitment to culture, creativity, and intellectual development, recognizing the enduring importance of books as primary sources of knowledge.
Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Youth for Culture in the Sultanate of Oman, H E Sayyed Saeed bin Sultan Al Busaidi, hailed the longstanding cultural ties between Qatar and Oman, emphasizing the significance of cultural collaboration between the two nations. He lauded the selection of Oman as the guest of honor as a testament to the strength of their relations.
