34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair kicks off

emirates7 - Under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the 34th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) officially opened today at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) and will continue until 5th May 2025.

Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, this year's fair is themed "Knowledge Illuminates Our Community" and welcomes 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries.

The fair presents an extensive programme featuring around 2,000 activities and events, designed for readers, intellectuals, publishers, and content creators alike. It continues to serve as a key platform for global cultural dialogue, further cementing Abu Dhabi’s role as a leading international centre for knowledge and creativity.

The event highlights the UAE’s broader cultural strategy—investing in culture, supporting the publishing sector, and encouraging dialogue among different civilisations.

Special features of this year’s fair include panel discussions and interactive exhibits dedicated to Ibn Sina, celebrating his legacy and marking 1,000 years since the publication of "The Canon of Medicine", a work that has significantly shaped the development of medical science worldwide.

The fair also honours "One Thousand and One Nights" as the "Book of the World," acknowledging its lasting influence on literature and the arts across generations and cultures.

Additionally, the Culture of the Caribbean Basin has been named this year's Guest of Honour, showcasing the UAE’s commitment to promoting global cultural collaborations and providing rich, diverse knowledge experiences that enhance intercultural understanding, further establishing Abu Dhabi as a prime destination for cultural and intellectual exchange.