From the Fragrance of Paper to the Horizon of Artificial Intelligence

From the Fragrance of Paper to the Horizon of Artificial Intelligence… The Damascus International Book Fair Redraws the Map of Syrian Culture

The Damascus International Book Fair returned in February 2026 to represent more than just a periodic cultural event; as its current edition carried special symbolism, being the first after the major transformations Syria witnessed since December 2024.

The fair was not merely an occasion for displaying books, but became a real platform for discussing the future of culture in the post-conflict Arab world, and a space for reflecting on the relationship between traditional knowledge and emerging artificial intelligence technologies.

A Cultural Event with a National Dimension

The fair witnessed remarkable attendance from Arab writers, publishers, and intellectuals, reflecting a shared desire to support Syrian cultural life at this pivotal stage. Many sessions focused on the role of Arabic literature in preserving collective memory and rebuilding national identity.

Artificial Intelligence Under Discussion

Among the most prominent themes that dominated the fair's discussions was the relationship between artificial intelligence and creativity. Questions were raised about AI's ability to produce literary and artistic content, and whether this represents a threat to human creativity or an opportunity to expand its scope. Many participants emphasized the importance of directing technology to serve cultural goals rather than replace human expression.

A Bridge Between Generations

The fair also served as a bridge between generations of Syrian and Arab intellectuals, connecting those who grew up with the culture of print and paper with a younger generation that consumes content mainly through screens and social media platforms. This generational dialogue was one of the most enriching aspects of the event.

Conclusion

In the end, the Damascus International Book Fair 2026 proved that culture is one of the most resilient forces in the face of crises, and that books — whether paper or digital — remain a compass guiding peoples toward light and knowledge.