In brief
On 1 November 2026, the Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance drew large crowds at Algiers International Book Fair. The ministry showcased traditional Quranic publications from the King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex and digital offerings such as the "Rushd" app and a multilingual 3D virtual Hajj experience, including a VR tour of the Grand Mosque and the Prophet’s Mosque.
The Saudi Ministry of Islamic Affairs, Dawah and Guidance attracted large crowds at the 29th Algiers International Book Fair on 1 November 2026, according to the Saudi Press Agency. The event was held in Algiers, Algeria, and Saudi Arabia was the Guest of Honor for the fair, which is scheduled to run through 7 November.
The fair’s official press release notes that visitors to the Saudi pavilion encountered a blend of traditional and contemporary Islamic literature. Among the items advertised were publications produced by the King Fahd Glorious Quran Printing Complex. The complex is known for its high‑quality editions of the Qur’an, and the Saudi pavilion used these works to showcase Saudi Arabia’s commitment to preserving and disseminating the holy text.
Digital Innovation and Virtual Experiences
In addition to printed materials, the ministry highlighted a portfolio of digital services aimed at modern audiences. A key feature was the “Rushd” app, described by the agency as a knowledge‑based interactive platform that offers religious guidance and resources in multiple languages. The Fair’s coverage also mentioned a multilingual 3D virtual Hajj experience that allows users to navigate through a simulated pilgrimage to the Sacred Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina.
The digital series not only extends the ministry’s outreach to global audiences but also provides an immersive journey that mirrors the physical pilgrimage. As detailed in the Saudi Press Agency’s report, visitors at the pavilion could access a virtual reality experience that enables them to explore the Grand Mosque in Mecca and the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. The VR tour is said to simulate live scenes from the two holy sites and highlights the Kingdom’s role in caring for Muḥaddash visitors.
The combination of classical Quranic publications and cutting‑edge digital offerings illustrates Saudi Arabia’s efforts to balance heritage with technology in the realm of Islamic education and outreach. As followers and visitors engage with this blend of traditional and virtual content, the 29th Algiers International Book Fair reportedly became a focal point for cross‑cultural religious dialogue.
