Khalifa Bin Tahnoon Explores Emirati Literature At Al Ain Book Festival 2024
The Al Ain Book Festival 2024, under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, is currently underway, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC). The event, which runs until 23rd November, aims to foster a love for reading and celebrate UAE heritage. Khalifa bin Tahnoon bin Mohammed Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Court, recently visited the festival.
During his visit, Sheikh Khalifa toured various pavilions and publishing houses participating in the festival. He was briefed on the extensive programme of activities designed to engage readers and promote UAE cultural identity. The festival features workshops and interactive sessions aimed at nurturing a generation of readers connected to their national heritage.
The festival showcases works from prominent Emirati writers and Arab authors across diverse fields. Sheikh Khalifa praised the efforts of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre in promoting Arabic language and reading culture. He commended the high level of organisation that contributes to the festival's annual success as a leading literary event in the UAE.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, highlighted the significance of the festival. "Our Arabic language and written traditions are intrinsic to our proud cultural identity," he stated. The event is pivotal in showcasing Emirati literary talent and celebrating Arabic language while fostering a love for reading among new generations.
This year’s festival expects around 140,000 visitors with 200 exhibitors presenting 100,000 titles. It serves as a platform for Emirati talent through various talks, sessions, and workshops. A notable feature is "Poetry Nights: The Sung Poems," focusing on traditional poetry legacies of prominent poets who passed away in 2024.
The programme delves into poetry documentation's evolution from oral gatherings to digital platforms today. It highlights how modern poets use online spaces to share their work. An evening dedicated to each poet celebrates their biographies and contributions to poetry.
New Book Launches and Cultural Events
The book "The Humdrums of Culture" will be launched at the festival with author Sheikha Alyazia bint Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan participating in a session moderated by Dr. Fatima Al Mazrouei. Another event titled "Absent Yet Present: Farewell to Companions of the Word" honours Gulf folk poets who left lasting literary legacies.
Festival events are spread across historical locations in Al Ain such as Al Ain Square - Hazza Bin Zayed Stadium, Al Jahili Fort, and UAE University (UAEU), along with three malls in Al Ain. Additionally, Zayed Central Library will host a ceremony honouring winners of the third edition of the Kanz Al Jeel Award.
The festival not only celebrates literature but also strengthens community ties through shared cultural experiences. By highlighting Emirati talent and fostering a reading culture, it reinforces Abu Dhabi’s status as a vibrant cultural hub.
With inputs from WAM
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