The 29th edition of the International Book Fair of Algiers, SILA 2026, is taking place from October 28 to November 7 at the Palais des expositions des Pins maritimes. This year's event has set a new record with 1,567 publishing houses from 51 countries participating, including 350 Algerian publishers. The fair is offering an unprecedented 300,000 book titles, doubling the number from last year's 140,000.
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is the guest of honor at SILA 2026, with the theme "Tomorrow between the pages of a book." The event has expanded its exhibition space by twofold, and the number of cultural events has increased from 530 to 994. Two new countries have joined the list of participants, and the fair is expecting a large turnout, with 6,241,718 visitors attending last year's event.
The fair's program includes a range of literary and cultural events, featuring over 200 writers and authors. The opening ceremony took place on October 29, with speeches by Minister of Culture Malika Bendouda and a Saudi representative. The event also pays tribute to authors who have passed away during the year. Algerian writer Kateb Yacine is being honored with a series of roundtable discussions.
The fair's literary program includes debates on the novel and short story, as well as poetry readings. A session dedicated to Ghassan Kanafani, a Palestinian writer, will be held, and Yasmina Khadra will discuss his book "Le Prieur de Bethléem." Adonis, a renowned Syrian poet, will also be present. Other notable authors, including Waciny Laredj, Amin Zaoui, and Rabia Djelti, will participate in the event.
The fair also commemorates the centenary of the Étoile nord-africaine, founded in 1926, and the 70th anniversary of the Congrès de la Soummam. Historian Benjamin Stora will lead a session on the Étoile nord-africaine, while another panel will discuss the future of human intelligence in the face of artificial intelligence.
Visitors can enjoy discounts of up to 60% on books and other items, with some exhibitors offering additional discounts. The fair also features several awards, including the "Mon premier livre" prize for writers under 35, a translation award, and a trophy for the best stand. Notable pavilions include those of the Arab League, Palestine, and the Sahrawi Arab Democratic Republic.
The fair is open from 10 am to 7:30 pm, and visitors can use public transportation, including the metro and tramway, to reach the Palais des expositions. The Etusa bus company has also set up special shuttle services. With a large expected turnout, visitors are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours and on weekends.
Key points
- SILA 2026 features a record 1,567 publishers from 51 countries, offering nearly 300,000 book titles.
- The fair's program includes over 200 writers and authors, with a range of literary and cultural events.
- The event expects a large turnout, with 6,241,718 visitors attending last year's event.
