Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre To Showcase Cultural Initiatives At Frankfurt Book Fair 2024

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) is set to participate in the 76th Frankfurt Book Fair from 16th to 20th October 2024 in Germany. The Centre plans to present a comprehensive cultural programme, which includes launching a global initiative, showcasing its projects and publications, and forming new partnerships.

Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, stated, "Our participation at the Frankfurt Book Fair is an opportunity to enhance communication and forge partnerships with cultural events and initiatives worldwide. It reflects the Centre's pivotal role in supporting the publishing sector, promoting the Arabic language globally, and highlighting it as a bridge between cultures. The fair’s diverse international audience provides us with an opportunity to further expand the reach of ALC’s activities and publications, and offers valuable chances to strengthen connections with leaders in the publishing industry and creative and literary professionals from around the world."

In collaboration with UAE newspaper The National, ALC will organise an exhibition titled "50 Important Literary Works from the Arab World." This exhibition will feature fifty significant novels and poetry collections by renowned authors from the Arab world. It aims to serve as a valuable reference for readers and the international publishing community.

The Sheikh Zayed Book Award will host a reception for publishers, translators, authors, and strategic partners. This event aims to foster networking opportunities and build partnerships within the industry. Additionally, ALC will display its publications at its booth, highlighting projects like "Kalima" and "Esdarat," along with various stories, novels, and travel books.

In collaboration with Litprom, a session titled ‘Philosophy in Islam: A Living History’ will feature Dr. Frank Griffel, translator Stefan Weidner, and philosopher Ahmad Milad Karimi. They will discuss "The Construction of Post-Classical Philosophy in Islam," which highlights Arab-Islamic philosophy's rich legacy and influence on global thought.

Another session titled ‘From Historical Foundations to Modern Narratives: The Evolution of Egyptian Literature’ will feature Reem Bassiouney discussing her historical novels set in medieval Egypt. Cultural historian Barbara Winkler and translator Stefan Weidner will join her to explore historical novels' role and literature's broader impact.

Strengthening Global Connections

The ALC aims to strengthen cooperation with publishers, industry professionals, specialists, and experts from the book industry through its participation in the fair. This event provides an opportunity to introduce its latest projects supporting books and publishing while reinforcing Arabic as a cultural bridge between different cultures.

The Frankfurt Book Fair is recognised as the world's largest book fair. It gathers approximately 7,500 publishers from over 100 countries to discuss challenges facing the publishing sector. The focus is particularly on digitalisation and big data management.

The event features panel discussions, cultural sessions, professional gatherings, pavilions, educational sessions, and showcases of internationally renowned books and authors.

With inputs from WAM