Abu Dhabi is set to host the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2024) from April 29 to May 5, attracting 1,350 publishers from 90 countries. Themed "Where the World’s Tales Unfold," this year’s fair promises a rich cultural experience with over 2,000 activities designed to engage diverse audiences.
Key Takeaways
- Event Dates: April 29 – May 5, 2024
- Number of Publishers: 1,350 from 90 countries
- Guest of Honour: Arab Republic of Egypt
- Focus Personality: Naguib Mahfouz
- New Features: Digital payment system and first-ever Arabic Content Forum for Children and Adolescents
A Celebration of Literature and Culture
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair has become a cornerstone of the cultural calendar in the UAE, showcasing the richness of literature and the arts. This year, the fair will feature 140 debut publishers and 375 local exhibitors, highlighting the growing influence of the Arabic language in creative industries.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, a key figure in the event’s organization, emphasized the fair’s role in promoting Arabic literature and culture. He stated, "This year’s edition is the most beautiful to date, underlining the great success the event has had in achieving Abu Dhabi’s strategy to advance the Arabic language."
Diverse Cultural Offerings
The fair will present a wide array of activities, including:
- Cultural Dialogues: Sessions featuring authors, thinkers, and creatives.
- Workshops and Seminars: Covering various topics, including artificial intelligence in publishing.
- Children’s Programming: A dedicated corner for youth, featuring engaging activities.
Guest of Honour: Egypt
This year, Egypt will be the Guest of Honour, showcasing its rich cultural heritage through a series of events. The selection underscores the historic ties between Egypt and the UAE, aiming to enhance cultural collaboration.
Focus Personality: Naguib Mahfouz
The fair will honor the renowned novelist Naguib Mahfouz, the first Arab author to win the Nobel Prize in Literature. A comprehensive program will explore his works and their impact on Arabic literature, featuring discussions and critical readings.
New Initiatives
For the first time, the fair will implement a digital payment system, enhancing the visitor experience. Additionally, the inaugural Arabic Content Forum for Children and Adolescents will focus on nurturing young talent in literature and the arts.
Global Participation
The event will welcome 12 countries participating for the first time, including Greece, Sri Lanka, and Brazil. Notably, China will have a significant presence with nine pavilions, marking its largest participation at any book fair globally.
Conclusion
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024 promises to be a vibrant celebration of literature, culture, and creativity, offering a platform for global exchange and collaboration. With its diverse programming and esteemed guests, the fair is set to inspire and engage audiences from around the world.
