Rabat Named World Book Capital for 2026: A Literary Celebration of Morocco’s Rich Cultural Heritage

UNESCO has named Rabat, the capital of Morocco, as the World Book Capital for 2026. This prestigious title was announced by Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, following the recommendation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee. With its vibrant literary scene, Rabat will join the ranks of global cities celebrated for their efforts to promote books, reading, and knowledge sharing.

The year-long celebration will kick off on April 23, 2026, coinciding with World Book and Copyright Day, and promises to showcase Morocco’s commitment to the written word, literacy, and cultural exchange. Rabat is set to become the fifth African city to hold this title, following in the footsteps of Alexandria, Port Harcourt, Conakry, and Accra.

A Literary Honor for Morocco

The World Book Capital program, an initiative spearheaded by UNESCO, aims to recognize cities that actively promote the importance of books, reading, and literacy. This prestigious title acknowledges a city’s efforts to foster inclusive access to books for all segments of society, from children to adults. Each year, the designated city organizes a series of activities that engage its population and visitors in the joys of reading while also supporting the local book and publishing industries.

For Rabat, this honor is a reflection of its historical significance as a cultural hub in North Africa. It is home to one of the largest international book fairs on the African continent, which attracts authors, publishers, and literary enthusiasts from around the world. As the World Book Capital, Rabat will leverage this event and others to inspire a new generation of readers, writers, and publishers, strengthening Morocco’s position in the global literary community.

Why Rabat? A City with a Rich Literary Tradition

Rabat’s selection as the World Book Capital is a testament to the city’s longstanding commitment to literature, culture, and education. The city’s efforts to make literature accessible to all and its investments in promoting literacy and the publishing industry have made it a natural choice for this honor.

UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay praised Rabat’s role in the democratization of knowledge, particularly through its robust book industry. “Rabat’s designation as the World Book Capital for 2026 is an acknowledgment of its efforts to make knowledge more accessible to everyone, regardless of age or background,” Azoulay said. The city’s innovative programs to encourage reading and literacy, especially among young people and underserved communities, were key factors in its selection.

Rabat’s commitment to literacy is not just limited to book fairs and literary events. The city has invested in infrastructure to support local publishers, writers, and libraries, creating a thriving ecosystem where literature can flourish. In recent years, Rabat has made books more accessible through public libraries, book festivals, and digital platforms. These initiatives have not only fostered a reading culture but have also contributed to economic growth by boosting the local publishing industry.

The Role of Books in Economic and Social Growth

As Rabat prepares for its year as World Book Capital, the city is focused on using books and literacy as tools for economic and social development. The initiatives planned for 2026 aim to make books more accessible to marginalized communities, promote the work of local authors, and strengthen the connection between literacy and sustainable growth.

One of the key goals of Rabat’s World Book Capital initiatives will be to create lasting social benefits by enhancing access to reading materials for people of all ages. This effort is particularly important in a country like Morocco, where improving literacy rates can lead to better educational outcomes and greater opportunities for all citizens. By promoting reading and writing, the city hopes to inspire creativity, boost literacy, and contribute to long-term economic development.

Through its planned programs, Rabat will shine a spotlight on the transformative power of books, showcasing how literacy can drive both personal and societal change. From workshops and reading campaigns to book launches and cultural festivals, Rabat’s year as World Book Capital will aim to spark a literary renaissance in Morocco, empowering more people to engage with books and knowledge.

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Rabat’s Place in the World Book Capital Legacy

Rabat will be the fifth African city to earn the title of World Book Capital, joining Alexandria (2002), Port Harcourt (2014), Conakry (2017), and Accra (2023). This recognition reflects not only Rabat’s cultural heritage but also the growing importance of African cities in global literary movements. These cities have used their designations to build stronger literary networks, promote local authors, and support the development of publishing industries.

The selection of Rabat also reinforces UNESCO’s commitment to promoting cultural diversity and inclusion through literature. Each year, the World Book Capital is chosen based on a city’s efforts to make books and reading accessible to all, particularly underserved populations. Rabat’s planned initiatives for 2026 will emphasize the importance of inclusion by reaching out to disadvantaged communities and ensuring that books and knowledge are available to everyone, regardless of background or income.

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Looking Ahead: What to Expect in 2026

As World Book Capital, Rabat will roll out a wide range of programs and events to celebrate literature and promote reading throughout the year. The celebrations will begin on April 23, 2026, coinciding with World Book and Copyright Day, a day dedicated to honoring the role of books in preserving and spreading knowledge. Rabat’s program of events is expected to include book fairs, reading festivals, literary competitions, workshops for aspiring writers, and events that showcase the work of Moroccan authors and publishers.

The year-long celebration will focus on fostering a love of reading among young people, promoting literacy in schools, and supporting Morocco’s publishing industry. The city will also work to strengthen its international literary connections by hosting writers, publishers, and literary figures from around the world.

Rabat’s designation as World Book Capital comes at an exciting time for the city, as it continues to evolve into a cultural and intellectual center for the region. With its rich literary tradition and dedication to promoting literacy, Rabat is well-positioned to make 2026 a year of literary celebration that will leave a lasting impact on Morocco and beyond.

A Literary Legacy for Morocco and Africa

As Rabat prepares to take on the mantle of World Book Capital, the city is set to reinforce its position as a leader in promoting literacy, culture, and education in Africa. By creating inclusive programs that reach all sectors of society, Rabat’s year as World Book Capital will inspire new readers, support local writers, and contribute to a global movement that recognizes the importance of books in fostering cultural and intellectual growth.

As the world turns its attention to Rabat in 2026, Morocco’s capital will not only celebrate its literary achievements but also highlight the critical role that books and reading play in building a more informed, creative, and inclusive society.