The 32nd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) is set to commence at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), promising an unparalleled cultural, literary, and artistic experience. Running until May 28, the event will feature over 2,000 activities and host 1,300 participants from more than 85 countries, offering visitors access to over 500,000 book titles.
Key Takeaways
- Event Duration: May 22 – May 28
- Location: Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC)
- Participants: 1,300 from over 85 countries
- Books Available: Over 500,000 titles
- Number of Events: More than 2,000
- Guest of Honor: Republic of Türkiye
- Focus Personality: Ibn Khaldun
- Theme: Sustainability
A Grand Opening
Held under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the fair is organized by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism — Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi). This year’s edition is the largest yet, featuring an extraordinary lineup of cultural, literary, and artistic events.
Diverse Venues
In addition to ADNEC, satellite programming will take place at five different cultural sites: The Cultural Foundation, Manarat Al Saadiyat, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, New York University Abu Dhabi, and the "Logos Hope" ship, the world’s largest floating book fair, currently anchored in Mina Zayed Port.
Special Programs and Guests
The Republic of Türkiye is this year’s Guest of Honor, with a special program celebrating the country’s creative output. Panel discussions and events will explore Turkish literature, poetry, and culinary traditions, featuring renowned authors such as Beşir Ayvazoğlu and Mehmet Hakkı Suçin.
The fair’s ‘Focus Personality’ is the 14th-century Arab philosopher Ibn Khaldun, widely regarded as the father of the social sciences. Sessions and workshops will delve into his work and legacy, featuring speakers like Tunisian historian Dr. Ibrahim Shabouh and British writer Anthony Satine.
Sustainability Theme
Coinciding with the UAE’s declaration of 2023 as the Year of Sustainability, the fair will include events aimed at fostering a comprehensive understanding of sustainability. Panel discussions will explore ways to make the publishing industry more sustainable and the role of museums in advancing public understanding of sustainability.
Engaging Activities
Visitors can look forward to over 2,000 events covering various cultural and creative fields. The cultural program includes more than 130 sessions featuring over 800 guests and speakers. The professional program will highlight key areas in the publishing sector such as marketing, translation, and content creation.
For film enthusiasts, the fair will feature movie screenings as part of the "Black Box Cinema" events. Additionally, the launch of "Podcast Abu Dhabi" will allow the audience to meet stars of the podcast industry in the Arab world.
Activities for Young Visitors
Young visitors will have the opportunity to engage in more than 1,800 activities tailored for children and young adults. The new Alpha Corner will enrich their knowledge of space and general sciences through interactive activities.
Accompanying Events
The second edition of the International Congress of Arabic Publishing and Creative Industries will continue its second day at ADNEC. Under the theme "Adapting Stories," the Congress will feature publishers, translators, content creators, and entrepreneurs from around the world, exploring the latest trends in the publishing sector and creative industries.
