Qatar Joins Fourth Al Diwan Arabic Book Fair in Berlin

According to the Ministry of Culture, the State of Qatar is taking part in the fourth edition of the Al Diwan Arabic Book Fair, which will be held in Berlin from 16 to 18 October. The fair aims to foster dialogue between the Arab world and Germany.

Fair Overview and Participation

The event brings together more than 110 publishers from across the Arab world and Germany, offering a broad selection of Arabic publications alongside a varied cultural programme designed to create spaces for encounter and dialogue among authors, translators, publishers, researchers and readers from both regions.

Programme Themes and Sessions

Its schedule includes discussions, seminars and literary gatherings that address translation between Arabic and German and its future prospects, the role of book fairs in cultural exchange, the Arabic novel within the Gulf region, and how cultural institutions can serve as bridges for dialogue and mutual understanding.

Additional sessions explore digital literature and contemporary publishing, while others highlight Qatari cultural and maritime heritage as well as Arabic poetry.

Featured Discussions and Special Events

A key highlight is a conversation with Saudi novelist Abdo Khal, recipient of the International Prize for Arabic Fiction (commonly known as the Arabic Booker), who will reflect on his literary career and the standing of the Saudi novel in the wider Arab cultural landscape.

The fair will also conclude the “Treasures of Knowledge: A Dialogue with Arabic Manuscripts” series, organised jointly with the Berlin State Library, with a special event devoted to the world of Arabic manuscripts and the creativity, knowledge and stories they contain.

Awards and Recognition

Another notable element is the presentation ceremony for the Al Riwaq Prize for Science and Culture, organised by Al Diwan (the Arab Cultural House) in partnership with the Orient‑Institut Beirut (OIB). The prize recognises outstanding scholarly and cultural contributions and reflects Al Diwan’s commitment to supporting knowledge, research and culture that enrich the Arab cultural scene.