UNESCO Honors Rabat as the 2026 World Book Capital \ Newslooks \ Washington \ UNESCO has named Rabat the World Book Capital for 2026, recognizing Morocco’s dedication to promoting culture and democratizing knowledge under the guidance of King Mohammed VI. This prestigious title highlights the city’s cultural heritage and aims to foster a reading culture, particularly among youth, through diverse literary events and initiatives.
UNESCO Honors Rabat, Deep Look.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has designated Rabat as the “World Book Capital” for 2026, marking a significant acknowledgment of Morocco’s ongoing commitment to cultural promotion and knowledge accessibility. This honor is in line with the High Royal Guidelines set by King Mohammed VI, which emphasize fostering education, culture, and creativity across the country.
In response to the announcement, Morocco’s Ministry of Culture, Youth, and Communication celebrated the designation, describing Rabat as the “City of Lights” and Morocco’s cultural heart. This recognition adds to Rabat’s growing list of global and regional accolades. The Ministry highlighted that being named World Book Capital will serve as a vital platform for raising awareness about the importance of books and reading, not only in Morocco but globally.
The nomination is expected to bring together public institutions and civil society groups, fostering collaboration to build a more inclusive reading society, particularly targeting the youth. The press release emphasized that this initiative will help nurture a culture of reading that aligns with Morocco’s broader cultural heritage and its New Development Model. In this regard, Rabat’s selection as the World Book Capital is not only a celebration of books but also a strategic move to harness the power of literature for social development and intercultural dialogue.
Throughout the year-long celebration, Moroccan literature will take center stage in a variety of forms. The program will include writing workshops, debates, literary fairs, and training sessions aimed at cultivating a love for books and reading among diverse audiences. This ambitious schedule of events will showcase the richness and depth of Moroccan literary traditions while also promoting the universal language of books as a tool for dialogue and understanding between cultures.
A key focus of the initiative is the youth. By engaging young people in reading and literary activities, Rabat aims to foster a new generation of readers and thinkers who can carry forward the city’s cultural legacy. Moreover, the program seeks to ensure that the impact of Rabat’s status as World Book Capital extends beyond 2026, with permanent initiatives and creative spaces being established to maintain the city’s reputation as a beacon for books and culture.
This designation will also highlight the role of books and literature within Morocco’s broader cultural and creative industries. The Ministry of Culture emphasized that reading is a cornerstone of cultural growth and innovation, contributing directly to the success of the New Development Model. As a result, Rabat’s World Book Capital title will serve to enhance the role of books as a cultural and educational pillar, while simultaneously promoting Morocco’s rich cultural diversity.
The city of Rabat, already known for its historical significance and vibrant cultural scene, will now stand as a global symbol of literary excellence and intercultural understanding. By implementing both temporary and permanent projects, Rabat aims to leave a lasting legacy as a hub for books and literature, securing its place on the global cultural stage for years to come.
