Despite all the COVID-19 pandemic, the 52nd Cairo International Book Fair is finally taking place. Bringing a smile to the faces of bibliophiles, the event that is taking in physical format with strict safety guidelines was inaugurated by Egypt’s Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and Minister of Culture Inas Abdel Dayem.

They inaugurated the activities of the 52nd Cairo International Book Fair, at Egypt International Exhibitions Center in the Fifth Settlement district covering 40,000 square meters. The book fair which commenced on June 30, runs until July 15.

Themed ‘Reading is Life’ has 675 pavilions and 1,218 publishers, as well as foreign publishing agencies representing 25 countries from four continents, have been participating, including seven African countries, 12 Asian countries, five European countries, in addition to the USA.

Held under the auspices of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, it is one of the largest cultural gatherings in the region. The fair this year will also launch the initiative ‘Your Book, Your Culture’ that aims to encourage citizens to buy books and urge them to read. The books at the fair have been priced ranging from one Egyptian pound ($0.064) to 20 pounds.

Additionally, there are numerous virtual activities planned out, that will be executed through the electronic platform of the book fair.

The entry to the book fair will be free this year, and that the prices will remain fixed, adding that the idea to increase the number of days for the fair would support the publishing industry.

Amidst all the pandemic restrictions, the organisers will restrict 100,000 visitors per day, and no one will be allowed to enter once we hit that number informed the authorities.