QU Book Fair begins with 34 publishers, research centres

The second edition of the Qatar University (QU) Book Fair commenced Sunday with the participation of 34 publishing houses, Qatari centres and universities from both within and outside Qatar.
The joint effort between the Ministry of Culture, QU Press and the Qatari Publishers and Distributors Forum promises four days of literary interactions from 9am to 6pm. Notable participants include the National Archives, the Ministry of Endowments and Islamic Affairs, the Sheikh Hamad Award for Translation and International Understanding, as well as representatives from universities and research centres across the Arab world.
The inauguration was led by Prof Mariam al-Maadeed, vice president for Research and Graduate Studies at QU; Prof Eiman Mustafawi, vice President for Student Affairs at QU; and Prof Fatma al-Sowaidi, director of QU Press.
Prof al-Maadeed emphasised the significance of organising the fair within the university, lauded QU Press for its outstanding contribution to scholarly publishing and commended the partners.
Prof al-Sowaidi, described the event as a crucial aspect of the university's mission to support education, cultural dissemination, and knowledge sharing through various means.
“In organising this fair, QU Press aims to attract intellectuals and writers, providing students with opportunities to access books across various educational and academic fields. Our focus on translating books aims to understand diverse perspectives and share our experiences with others,” Dr al-Sowaidi stated.
At the opening ceremony, Shaikha al-Thani, head of Marketing and Sales at QU Press, noted the overwhelming participation of publishers and research centres at the local, regional, and international levels. She highlighted the distinguished presence of renowned Gulf universities and honoured guests, including Dr Rafia Ghobash from the UAE.