Dhahran, Saudi Arabia — The King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra) is launching, the day after tomorrow, the fourth edition of the "Iqraa" reading marathon, aimed at promoting a culture of reading across the Arab world, with 19 Arab libraries taking part in partnership with the Arab Federation for Libraries and Information. Running over four days, the event serves as a leading platform bringing together reading enthusiasts from various countries.

Reading as a Means of Connection and Knowledge

This year's "Iqraa" marathon aims for an ambitious goal of one million pages read, which will help plant 10,000 trees, as Ithra has committed to planting a tree for every 100 pages read, in support of environmental sustainability.

The Marathon's Goals

  • Promoting a reading culture: instilling a love of reading across age groups.
  • Encouraging Arab cultural cooperation: exploring the diversity of Arabic literature and strengthening shared cultural identity.
  • Enriching knowledge: providing rich knowledge resources in partnership with Arab libraries.

Arab Cooperation

This fourth edition features participation from libraries across various Arab countries, offering a unique opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge and reinforcing the role of public libraries in enriching cultural life.

Environmental and Knowledge Initiatives

Through its tree-planting initiative, the marathon links reading with sustainability, reflecting Ithra's vision of achieving a positive impact on society and the environment.

Participation Details

  • Date: January 15-18, 2025.
  • Venue: King Abdulaziz Center for World Culture (Ithra).
  • Admission: open to individuals and families.

For more details, visit Ithra's official website.