The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Image via Dar El Hilal

For those who already miss the amazing few days of the Cairo International Book Fair, fret not, for another fair is on its way sooner than you think. The Sakia Book Fair is coming for its 13th edition this month! From the 13th to the 19th of August, El Sawy Culturewheel will host one of the organisation’s most exciting annual events in its usual El Nahr Hall. 

Dubbed by its organisers as an embodiment of their passion for books as their source of inspiration, the fair aims to cement the importance of books and the role they play in the digital age. It’s a platform that promotes cultural exchange between pioneers in the arts and humanities and the wider public, and is full of exciting activities for you to enjoy – it’s not just about buying books!

Image via E3lam

The event is known for its numerous workshops and huge discounts, reaching 50% (us book hoarders are in big trouble). You will also get to meet some of your favourite authors there, as the fair will host book signings.

In more ways than just one, this fair is a cultural feast. As a performance arts venue, it should come as no surprise that the fair should also include a bunch of special performances. While we have yet to find out who will be taking the stage, there should be some very exciting artists. Last year, the fair hosted the Palestinian folk troupe Canaan Band, who lit up the stage with Palestinian music and dabke.

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The Sakia Book Fair is an absolute treat that brings forward the voices of emerging artists, with many other exciting events, including interactive seminars and a competition. Not only that, but the fair is one of great importance. With 25 of the country’s biggest publishing houses present and last year’s edition being inaugurated by Dr Khaled El Anany, former minister of tourism and antiquities, it truly is an event of cultural significance for us Egyptians. You won’t want to miss out on what looks like a special edition.