Fnac Qatar Celebrates French Culture at the 33rd Doha International Book Fair

Fnac Qatar Celebrates French Culture

Fnac Qatar, the one-stop destination for all things culture, leisure and technology, proudly announces its participation in the 33rd edition of the Doha International Book Fair (DIBF), held at the Doha Exhibition and Convention Center from May 9 to May 18, 2024. Exhibiting within the pavilion of the Embassy of France and the French Institute of Qatar (IFQ), Fnac Qatar reaffirms its commitment to fostering cultural exchange and promoting literacy in the community.

Since 2014, Fnac Qatar has been an integral part of the DIBF, embodying its "Culture for All" mission. This year, Fnac Qatar continued its tradition of engagement by hosting cultural and artistic workshops for students from leading French-speaking schools in Qatar led by the famous French author of children’s literature, Sophie Adriansen. The activations also included daily storytelling sessions for children aged 3-6 who immersed themselves in enchanting tales with the captivating storytellers, Annie Benoit and Marion Bellion. Following the interactive storytelling experience, children engaged in hands-on creative workshops inspired by the narrative, nurturing their imagination and fostering language development.

As part of the fair's program, Fnac Qatar and its partners were delighted to welcome Éditions Faton for a discussion panel. Renowned for its contributions to art history, archaeology, general culture and children’s books, Éditions Faton epitomizes the essence of French intellectual heritage. Additionally, Fnac Qatar hosted the Director General of Lycée Franco-Qatarien Voltaire, Dr. Serge Tillman, for a special signing ceremony of his books, "Êtres Embrassés" and "Lettres Enlacées," further enriching the cultural experience at the event.

Mr. Bader Al-Darwish, Chairman and Managing Director of Fifty One East, expressed his pride in Fnac Qatar's participation, stating, "Fnac Qatar's presence at the Doha International Book Fair reflects our ongoing commitment to enriching the cultural landscape of Qatar. We are proud to collaborate with the French Embassy and the French Institute to promote literacy and foster cultural exchange within the community. Having been part of this exceptional fair for the past 10 years, we are thrilled to continue our tradition of supporting such significant cultural events today and in the years to come."

H.E. Mr. Jean-Baptiste Faivre, the Ambassador of France to the State of Qatar, extended his gratitude to Fnac Qatar for its partnership, emphasizing the importance of the exhibition in promoting cultural dialogue and strengthening bilateral ties between Qatar and France. He remarked, "The Doha International Book Fair serves as a platform for celebrating diversity, fostering dialogue, and promoting a love for literature and learning. Fnac Qatar's dedication to promoting French culture enriches the cultural tapestry of Qatar and enhances our longstanding partnership."

This year, the pavilion's design paid homage to the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympic Games with a masterful fusion of architectural grandeur and cultural symbolism, meticulously crafted to transport visitors to the heart of France. Every element, from the intricate details of the landmarks to the immersive ambiance, was meticulously curated to evoke a sense of awe and wonder, inviting visitors on a journey of exploration and discovery through the rich French heritage.

At the forefront stood the majestic Arc de Triomphe, its imposing yet elegant structure serving as both a defining architectural element and functional bookshelves, symbolizing the gateway to a world of literary wonders. As visitors stepped into the space, their gaze was drawn to the towering presence of the Eiffel Tower, a beacon of illumination that embodied the spirit of innovation and creativity.

Surrounding the base of the Eiffel Tower, organic shelving displays paid homage to French roots and culture, offering an interactive showcase of a diverse selection of literary treasures and titles for all ages, curated by Fnac Qatar.

In honor of the 2024 Olympics in France, the pavilion also hosted a small collection of objects from the Winter Games held in France in 1968 and lent by the 3-2-1 Qatar Olympic and Sports Museum. Furthermore, a digital exhibition lent by the National Sports Museum in France, “Les Elles des Jeux – Women of the Games” also invited visitors to discover the spectacular path traveled for over 130 years, from the virtual exclusion of women to the fight for parity in sports. These objects and the exhibition offered an inspiring and interactive journey that shared the story of the Olympics and global sports for everyone to enjoy.

The Doha International Book Fair (DIBF) stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of literature and cultural exchange. Since its inception in 1972, the fair has attracted leading publishing houses from around the world, offering a diverse array of books. With over 400 publishing houses from 34 countries, the DIBF continues to captivate audiences from across the Arab world, the Gulf region, and beyond. Book lovers, especially those with a passion for French culture, are invited to join this celebration of literature and knowledge.