33rd Abu Dhabi Book Fair To Showcase 1,350 Publishers From Across The Globe
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) has unveiled an extensive lineup for the 33rd edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF 2024), set to captivate attendees from 29th April to 5th May at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Under the theme "Where the World's Tales Unfold," this year's fair is poised to host 1,350 publishers from 90 countries, marking the participation of 140 newcomers and 375 local exhibitors. An impressive roster of over 2,000 activities spanning various cultural and knowledge fields awaits the public.
At a press briefing held at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, underscored the pivotal role of ADIBF in promoting the Arabic language within creative and cultural industries. He lauded the fair's legacy, rooted in the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan and supported by President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, as a benchmark for literary events in the Arab region. This edition will honor the Arab Republic of Egypt as the Guest of Honour and celebrate the literary giant Naguib Mahfouz as the Focus Personality.
Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, ALC Executive Director and Director of ADIBF, detailed the planned cultural and knowledge-driven activities. The fair will feature a plethora of cultural programs, including insightful sessions, seminars, and dialogues with authors, thinkers, and creatives from a myriad of disciplines. Egypt's contribution will mirror its rich intellectual legacy and civilizational history. Additionally, each participating country will showcase its unique culture within their pavilions.
Notably, this year's fair will welcome first-time participants from 12 countries such as Greece, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Pakistan, Cyprus, and Brazil. A first-of-its-kind comprehensive digital payment system will be introduced to facilitate transactions. China is set to have a significant presence with nine pavilions and 80 publishing houses. India will also have a strong showing with 23 publishing houses alongside a cultural program that celebrates its diverse culinary traditions and cultures.
The selection of Egypt as Guest of Honour underscores the enduring cultural ties between Egypt and the UAE. The fair aims to foster cultural and intellectual collaboration on a global scale. Naguib Mahfouz is recognized for his monumental influence on Arab culture and literature through works like 'Cairo Trilogy' and 'Children of Gebelawi,' which have left an indelible mark on Arabic literature.
The ADIBF 2024 promises an immersive experience with its diverse array of activities, cultural programs, and opportunities for cultural exchange. It stands as a testament to the vibrant literary scene in the Arab world and beyond, offering a platform for dialogue, learning, and celebration of literary achievements.
With inputs from WAM
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