ADMAF Celebrates Emirati Literature At Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024

Under the auspices of His Excellency Sheikh Nahayan Mabarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, the Abu Dhabi Music & Arts Foundation (ADMAF) is set to enrich the literary landscape with its announcement of the cultural programme for the 'Riwaq Al Adab Wal Kitab'. This pivotal initiative will unfold at the 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, scheduled from 29 April to 5 May 2024, at the prestigious Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.

2024 marks the 9th edition of Riwaq Al Adab Wal Kitab, underscoring ADMAF's commitment to nurturing literary talent and boosting the Emirati publishing sector. This year's theme, 'From Air, Water, and Sand, We Form', pays tribute to the cultural accomplishments and enduring literary heritage of Emirati novelists, with a special focus on the esteemed writer Ali Abu al-Reesh.

ADMAF plans to introduce eight new publications at the event, alongside hosting five engaging discussions and book signing ceremonies. These activities will witness participation from a host of writers, poets, and literary personalities from both the Emirates and the wider Arab region, reinforcing ADMAF's ongoing partnerships with prominent entities including the Emirates Writers Union, Nabati Publishing House, Al-Dhabi Publishing House, Nineveh House, and Mediterranean Publications. The foundation's pavilion will also spotlight the 'Literary Voices' website and the pioneering Arab Cast Audio Book Library initiative.

Her Excellency Huda Alkhamis-Kanoo, the Founder of ADMAF and Artistic Director of Abu Dhabi Festival, shared her enthusiasm for the event, stating, "Our return to the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is a testament to our unwavering support for literary talents and our mission to cultivate a thriving community of writers and readers." She further highlighted the initiative's role in promoting Arab literary creativity and supporting the vibrant writing and publishing community in the nation.

The book signing events kick off on Thursday, 2 May, featuring 'Cage of Waves: Essays on Meaning and Existence' by Lulwa Al Mansouri, followed by a series of signings including the anticipated 'From Air, Water, and Sand We Form', celebrating Ali Abu al-Reesh's literary contributions. The signings, scheduled to start at 6:30 pm daily at the ADMAF Booth, will culminate on Sunday, 5 May, with Nada El Hage's 'Gold Rose: Selection of Poems by Onsi El Hage'.

A lineup of conversations and interviews is slated to enrich the fair's programme. These include a dialogue between poet and critic Sameh Kaawach and Abbass Abbass, focusing on digital platforms and audiobooks, and a discussion on the novelistic achievements of Ali Abu al-Reesh moderated by Fatin Hamoudi. Additionally, seminars on literary voices and the therapeutic aspects of music and arts are part of the enriching agenda.

Digital Innovations

ADMAF's digital presence at the book fair features the 'Aswat' (Literary Voices) platform, a major hub for cultural and literary content in the Arab world, showcasing the contributions of over 85 Arab writers. The Arab Cast Audio Book Library initiative, a pioneering project for people of determination launched in 2008, will also be highlighted, offering access to a selection of audiobooks.The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, through the Riwaq Al Adab Wal Kitab initiative, stands as a beacon of cultural exchange and literary excellence, reinforcing ADMAF's dedication to fostering dialogue, critical thinking, and creativity within the society, thus enriching the cultural fabric of the UAE and the Arab world at large.