Riyadh: The Riyadh International Book Fair 2025 highlighted a notable trend this year: the rise of books as gifts. Many visitors were seen purchasing books for friends and family, signaling a growing cultural awareness and an expanding interest in reading.

According to Saudi Press Agency, Khaled Al-Harbi, a visitor at the fair, expressed his belief in the lasting value of books. While browsing the children’s books pavilion, he stated, ‘The best gift I can give my children is a book. Phones can be replaced, and toys eventually break, but books last.’ He emphasized that the real gift lies in instilling the habit of reading at home.

Sara Al-Abdullah, another attendee at the novels pavilion, shared her perspective on choosing books as gifts for friends. She explained that gifting a book is a unique way to express emotions, noting, “Each title carries a personal message.”

Abdulrahman Al-Shammari, a visitor with a penchant for selecting books as gifts, described the practice as a thoughtful and meaningful choice. He highlighted how this resonates both intellectually and emotionally with recipients.

Authors at the book signing pavilion were also part of this trend, as they personally dedicated their works to readers. They viewed these dedications as the beginning of a new dialogue-one that extends beyond the book itself.

This growing trend of gifting books reflects a deeper societal awareness of reading’s value and reinforces the cultural significance of books as timeless, meaningful presents.