Rabat Named World Book Capital for 2026

The logo of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is seen in front of its headquarters in Paris, France, October 4, 2017. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer
The logo of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is seen in front of its headquarters in Paris, France, October 4, 2017. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer
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Rabat Named World Book Capital for 2026

The logo of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is seen in front of its headquarters in Paris, France, October 4, 2017. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer
The logo of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is seen in front of its headquarters in Paris, France, October 4, 2017. REUTERS/Philippe Wojazer

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Rabat as the World Book Capital for 2026, following a recommendation from the World Book Capital Advisory Committee.

In a recent statement, UNESCO highlighted the Moroccan capital's commitment to fostering the book industry and encouraging reading through its 54 publishing houses; it also hosts Africa's third-largest international book fair.

Rabat aims to come up with various initiatives to improve access to books, bolster the local publishing sector, and advance literacy among all age groups and demographics, both nationally and internationally.

The statement added that the celebrations are set to commence on April 23, 2026, coinciding with the World Book and Copyright Day.



Winter at Tantora Festival Begins in AlUla

Winter at Tantora Festival begins in AlUla. (SPA)
Winter at Tantora Festival begins in AlUla. (SPA)
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Winter at Tantora Festival Begins in AlUla

Winter at Tantora Festival begins in AlUla. (SPA)
Winter at Tantora Festival begins in AlUla. (SPA)

This year's Winter at Tantora Festival opened Thursday in AlUla, celebrating the region's unique blend of art, culture, and heritage.
The festival, part of ongoing efforts to position AlUla as a premier global tourist destination, will run until January 11. The opening day attracted a large number of visitors who enjoyed a variety of cultural and heritage activities, including live musical performances, art exhibitions, guided tours to archaeological sites, and traditional folk-art displays, said the Saudi Press Agency on Friday.
The festival features a rich program of activities catering to all ages, including workshops, interactive experiences, and culinary events that highlight local cuisine. It also provides an opportunity to explore traditional wedding customs, offering visitors an authentic insight into Saudi culture.
Winter at Tantora is one of the flagship initiatives supporting tourism and heritage as part of the Saudi Vision 2030, and it serves as a platform for cultural exchange, bringing together attendees from around the world.