French Consulate celebrates conclusion of Red Sea International Film Festival amid cultural ties

Saudi Arabia hosted the Jeddah Book Fair on December 12, 2024, marking its official opening with participation from over 1,000 publishing houses and organizations from 22 countries. Dr. Abdullatif Al-Wasil, the general director of the General Administration of Publishing, emphasized the fair's significance in promoting literature and culture in Saudi Arabia. The event not only showcased local and international writers but also encouraged interactive participation from visitors through diverse artistic activities. With a dedicated area for children aged 2 to 12, the fair aimed to provide educational experiences through storytelling and creative workshops. Significantly, the event celebrated the Year of the Camel, acknowledging the cultural importance of camels in the Arabian Peninsula. Workshops and panel discussions were held, covering various literary topics, including the role of pseudonyms in literature. One notable panel discussion featured Mohammed Al-Mushwah and poet Abdullah Al-Ghabeen, focusing on the impact of pseudonyms in artistic expression and literature. The panelists discussed how pseudonyms could offer authors an avenue to express their creativity without revealing their identities and highlighted the critic's role in bridging the gap between films and audiences. The Jeddah Book Fair also serves as a key cultural event in a region where literature has gained growing prominence, reflecting shifting interests in various forms of creative expression over time. It follows two other major book fairs held in Saudi Arabia in 2024, reinforcing Jeddah's role as a cultural and historical center for the region. Al-Wasil reiterated the intent to highlight local heritage and emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering a conducive environment for literary expression and exchange of ideas. The fair’s combination of educational activities, cultural homage, and support for local authors demonstrates an intention to structure an enriching literary landscape in Saudi Arabia. It aims to connect various voices and talents among attendees while furthering opportunities for global exchange in the literary and artistic spheres. As such, the Jeddah Book Fair stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia's commitment to nurturing a thriving literary community, ultimately seeking to enhance its cultural dialogue with the world.