Dar Al Sharq pavilion at the 35th Doha International Book Fair. PICs: Rajan Vadakkemuriyil/The Peninsula
Doha, Qatar: As the 35th Doha International Book Fair continues to draw crowds at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center, Dar Al Sharq is making a strong impression with a comprehensive showcase that reflects its longstanding role in Qatar’s cultural landscape.
Speaking to The Peninsula on the sidelines of the event, Reem Deaibes, Media Representative at Dar Al Sharq, emphasised the publishing house’s deep commitment to enriching the nation’s cultural scene.
“Dar Al Sharq’s participation this year stems from its cultural and media role in supporting knowledge and enriching the cultural scene in Qatar,” Deaibes said. “We believe that books remain one of the most important tools for building awareness and strengthening cultural identity.”
Reem Deaibes
To deliver on this vision, Dar Al Sharq has brought a diverse and balanced collection to the fair, featuring more than 700 titles spanning intellectual and literary works, cultural studies, children’s books, self-development titles, and publications that document pressing social issues and ongoing cultural transformations in the region.
Deaibes described the selection as one that successfully blends authenticity with modernity, catering to a wide range of readers and age groups.
When asked about the significance of the Doha International Book Fair, Deaibes praised the event as a vital platform that unites publishers, writers, and readers.
“It plays a significant role in supporting the publishing industry and promoting a culture of reading,” she noted. “It also serves as an opportunity to exchange expertise and cultural experiences, while highlighting the cultural movement taking place in Qatar and across the region.”
Beyond its impressive book display, Dar Al Sharq is hosting a lively program of activities at its booth - H4-30. Visitors can look forward to book signing sessions, author meet-and-greets, competitions, and specially designed interactive activities for children and families. These initiatives aim to make the cultural experience more engaging and accessible to all segments of society.
Deaibes also highlighted the important role Qatari publishing houses play in nurturing local talent. “They provide publishing platforms and introduce the creative works of Qatari writers,” she explained, adding that such efforts contribute significantly to the growth of the literary and cultural movement in the country.
Touching on the impact of technology, Deaibes acknowledged that digital development and social media have transformed how readers discover books. “Social media platforms have become effective tools for introducing new publications and engaging directly with audiences,” she said, noting that modern technologies have expanded the reach of cultural content to wider and more diverse groups.
On current reading trends, Deaibes observed a healthy diversity in interests. “We are witnessing growing interest in self-development books, novels, and intellectual works, in addition to content related to digital knowledge and modern skills,” she said. Readers, she added, have become more selective, seeking content that delivers genuine intellectual and cultural value.
In her closing message to the public, Deaibes extended a warm invitation to visitors: “We invite everyone to visit Dar Al Sharq’s booth H4-30 and take advantage of this distinguished cultural event. The exhibition provides an excellent opportunity to explore the latest publications and participate in a variety of cultural activities. The fair is not merely a place to purchase books, but a space for knowledge, dialogue, and the promotion of a reading culture within society.”
With its rich programme and strong presence, Dar Al Sharq continues to reinforce its position as a key contributor to Qatar’s vibrant publishing and cultural ecosystem during the ongoing book fair, which runs until May 23.
