3rd March, Riyadh – The Saudi Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission has launched the inaugural edition of its Writers & Readers Festival on February 23 which is scheduled to continue till March 11 across five locations in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Region to celebrate Arabic and international literature.
With the aim of supporting the works of Saudi, regional, and international literary luminaries, the event showcases and provides opportunities for literary partnerships in the fields of publishing and translation.
Dr. Mohammed Hasan Alwan, CEO of the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, said “Through this festival, we aim to acknowledge global literature and create a platform for writers and readers from around the world to exchange knowledge and ideas.
“The Eastern Region was chosen to host the festival because of its cultural heritage and historic impact on the literary movement in the area. It is home to some of the most influential literary voices, such as the 6th century renowned Arab poet Tarafah ibn Al-Abd.”
The Writers & Readers Festival offers a comprehensive program with several interactive activities, allowing audiences to enjoy an immersive literary experience, including panel discussions with renowned writers, literary salons, literary criticism workshops and movie screenings.
Additionally, the program will also have theatrical performances, poetry nights, musical concerts, crafts and culinary markets and food trucks to cater to visitors.
One of the key events of the festival is the Sharqiyah Book Fair, which will take place between March 2-11 at Dhahran Expo, and is the Eastern region’s first book fair ever. Organized by the Literature, Publishing and Translation Commission, at least 300 local, Arab, and international publishing houses are participating in the book fair. It has a wide-ranging program that includes discussion panels, workshops, poetry nights, and kids’ zone.
The Writers & Readers Festival is one of the Literature, Publishing, and Translation Commission’s events which provide a platform to encourage cultural exchange and facilitate new opportunities for creativity and cultural expression.
