Algeria Gate: The 29th edition of the Algiers International Book Fair (SILA) concluded on Saturday, November 7, with a historic turnout of more than 6.27 million visitors, reaffirming Algeria’s growing prominence as a major cultural and literary hub.
During the closing ceremony, the fair’s commissioner, Mohamed Iguerb, announced that 6,270,427 visitors had been recorded by Friday, November 6, at 8 p.m., including an impressive 886,546 visitors on that day alone.

A landmark edition for Algeria’s literary scene
Held under the high patronage of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, SILA 2026 brought together 1,567 publishing houses from 51 countries, showcasing nearly 300,000 titles across 45,500 square metres of exhibition space.
The event also welcomed 220 writers and speakers and featured nearly 1,000 cultural activities, offering visitors opportunities to engage with literature, intellectual debates and international cultural exchanges.
Saudi Arabia, this year’s guest of honour, attracted considerable attention through its participation, further strengthening cultural ties between Algeria and the Kingdom.
Algiers strengthens its international cultural standing
The exceptional attendance reflects the Algerian public’s enthusiasm for books, reading and cultural discovery.
Beyond its impressive figures, SILA 2026 demonstrated Algeria’s ability to host large-scale international cultural events, bringing together publishers, intellectuals and readers from across the world.
With this record-breaking edition, Algiers further consolidates its position among the leading literary capitals of the Arab world and Africa, while expanding the international reach of Algeria’s cultural landscape.













