SILA 2026: 1,565 Exhibitors, Saudi Arabia as Guest of Honor
The 29th International Book Fair (SILA 2026) will host 1,565 exhibitors from 51 countries at the Palais des Expositions in Pins Maritimes, Algiers. This was announced by Mohamed Akrab, Commissioner of the International Book Fair, during a press conference at the National Library on 20 October 2026. The fair is scheduled to run from 28 October to 7 November 2026, under the theme "Tomorrow Between the Covers of a Book."
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will participate as the guest of honor, an initiative aimed at strengthening historical and cultural ties between Algeria and the Kingdom. Abdullah bin Nasser Al-Busairi, the Saudi Ambassador to Algeria, expressed gratitude for this selection, stating that his country's participation would be at a high level. He anticipated the attendance of numerous Saudi intellectuals, writers, and publishers, highlighting the event as an opportunity for cultural exchange and inviting attendees to folkloric performances across the fair's pavilions and shopping centers.
This edition of SILA 2026 introduces several new features designed to enhance the visitor experience and promote literature. A dedicated Palestine pavilion has been created, and a new digital platform application will be launched, allowing visitors to search for specific titles or publishers and view book prices and lists. Additionally, the third edition of the "My First Book" prize will be awarded, recognizing young writers under 35 for their debut novels published in 2026 in Arabic, Amazigh, English, or French. (Reporting by Omar Tadrist.)
