Rabat named World Book Capital 2026 by UNESCO

Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, announces Morocco's capital as the 2026 World Book Capital. This decision was based on the recommendation of the World Book Capital Advisory Committee.

Rabat was declared the 2026 World Book Capital, following Rio de Janeiro in 2025. The Moroccan capital has been a cultural crossroad for the exchange of knowledge and arts. In addition, the growing local book industry has been seen as playing an important role in the advancement of education, resonating with UNESCO's mandate. Rabat hosts Africa's third-largest international book and publishing fair with 54 publishing houses and a growing number of bookstores.

UNESCO and the World Book Capital Advisory Committee see Rabat's book industry as playing a crucial role in the city's creative economy and the reproduction of democratizing knowledge. The book industry has shown a clear commitment to library development and the empowerment of women and youth through their literacy initiatives especially evident in underserved communities.

Starting on 23 April 2026, on World Book and Copyright Day, the 2026 World Book Capital will continue to foster initiatives that aim for sustainable economic growth and social benefits with a major focus on the reinforcement of literacy to all its citizens.

For more info on the World Book Capitals, click here.