The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) announced this Tuesday that Rabat has been selected as the World Book Capital for 2026.
“UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay announced the designation of Rabat (Morocco) as the World Book Capital 2026, following the recommendation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee,” stated a press release from the organization.
Azoulay expressed his delight, noting that “Rabat is a significant cultural crossroads where books play a vital role in the transmission of knowledge and arts in all their diversity.”
Rabat’s growing local book industry also plays a key role in enhancing education, she added. With 54 publishing houses, the third-largest international book fair in Africa, and a rising number of bookstores, the city’s book industry is not only a critical component of its creative economy but also a driving force behind the democratization of knowledge, the statement pointed out.
UNESCO and the advisory committee recognized Rabat for its “clear commitment” to promoting literature, empowering women and youth through reading, and combating illiteracy, particularly in disadvantaged communities.
As World Book Capital in 2026, Rabat will lead a series of initiatives aimed at expanding access to books and supporting the local publishing industry. A major initiative will be launched to improve literacy for all citizens, contributing to the city’s sustainable economic growth and social progress, according to UNESCO.
The year-long celebration will kick off on April 23, 2026, coinciding with World Book and Copyright Day.
Cities selected as UNESCO World Book Capitals commit to promoting books and reading for people of all ages and backgrounds, both locally and beyond national borders, by organizing a year-long program of activities.
Rabat becomes the 26th city to hold this title since 2001, succeeding cities such as Madrid (2001), Alexandria (2002), New Delhi (2003), Montreal (2005), Bogota (2007), Beirut (2009), Buenos Aires (2011), Wroclaw (2016), Athens (2018), Sharjah (2019), Kuala Lumpur (2020), Accra (2023), Strasbourg (2024), and Rio de Janeiro (2025).
The UNESCO World Book Capital Advisory Committee includes representatives from the European and International Booksellers Federation (EIBF), the International Authors Forum (IAF), the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA), the International Publishers Association (IPA), and UNESCO itself.
