ALC Signs MoU With Indonesian Ministry Of Culture For Guest Of Honour Role At Abu Dhabi International Book Fair

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) has formalised a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indonesia's Ministry of Culture. This agreement marks Indonesia's role as the Guest of Honour at the 35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) in 2026. The MoU was signed during the ALC's participation in the 45th Indonesia International Book Fair held in Jakarta, paving the way for a rich cultural collaboration between the two nations.

Dr Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, expressed that selecting Indonesia as the Guest of Honour highlights its significant cultural heritage. He noted that Indonesia serves as an exemplary Asian model for diversity and civilisational harmony. "The Indonesian experience in coexistence resonates with the UAE’s vision, which is based on openness, tolerance, and the promotion of human fraternity," he stated.

The MoU outlines plans to create a comprehensive programme for the Guest of Honour. This will feature literary, intellectual, and artistic events showcasing Indonesian culture. The initiative aims to spotlight advancements in Indonesia's publishing and translation sectors while boosting Indonesian publishers' presence at next year's Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.

Signing Ceremony Details

The signing ceremony featured Dr Ali bin Tamim and Insan Abdirrohman, Secretary for the Directorate General of Diplomacy, Promotion, and Cultural Cooperation at Indonesia's Ministry of Culture. Attendees included Abdulla Salem Al Dhaheri, UAE Ambassador to Indonesia, representatives from Emirati institutions at the book fair, Arys Hilman from the Indonesian Publishers Association, and numerous Indonesian publishers and intellectuals.

Dr Ali bin Tamim further commented on Indonesia's participation: "We are delighted that Indonesia will be the Guest of Honour at the upcoming edition of the Fair, a prominent annual event that underlines the important role of culture in bringing people closer, deepening the bonds that unite them, and opening the door for a greater exchange of knowledge, thought, and creativity."

This collaboration underscores a shared commitment to cultural exchange and mutual understanding between Abu Dhabi and Indonesia. It promises to enrich both nations' cultural landscapes through diverse programmes and events at future book fairs.

With inputs from WAM