The 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) kicked off with a grand inauguration ceremony under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan. H.H. Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Development and Fallen Heroes’ Affairs, led the opening of the prestigious event, which is organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) and held at ADNEC Abu Dhabi from 29th April to 5th May 2024.
The ADIBF serves as a significant platform for publishers to showcase the latest trends and releases in the publishing sector, providing a valuable opportunity for networking and building partnerships. It is also a prime destination for culture enthusiasts and readers to explore new releases and engage with the literary world.
Reflecting Abu Dhabi’s leading global role in publishing and the promotion of Arab culture, the fair hosts around 1,350 publishers from 90 countries, embodying the theme of this year’s edition, “Where the World’s Tales Unfold.”
During the opening ceremony, His Highness Sheikh Theyab bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan toured the fair, exploring the highlights of local, Arab, and international publications. He engaged with exhibitors to understand their opinions and expectations for future editions of the event, accompanied by esteemed dignitaries including Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, and Sheikh Salem Al Qassimi, Minister of Culture and Youth.
The fair features various pavilions, including the Guest of Honour pavilion celebrating Egypt and a special tribute to renowned Egyptian author and novelist Naguib Mahfouz, who is this year’s Focus Personality. Additionally, the Book of the World corner was inaugurated for the first time, featuring Abdullah Ibn Al Muqaffa’s “Kalila wa Dimna.”
ADIBF offers a comprehensive professional and cultural programme, combining regional publishing sectors and creative industries. It aligns with Abu Dhabi’s commitment to expanding the reach of cultural content and promoting Arabic as a language of culture, science, and creativity worldwide.
This year’s edition welcomes 145 new exhibitors and publishers, with 12 countries participating for the first time, including Greece, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The fair’s rich programme includes literary workshops, artistic performances, film screenings, and culinary presentations highlighting world cultures.
ADIBF 2024 aims to enhance its competitiveness and global standing, showcasing Abu Dhabi’s support for Arab culture and the growth of the global publishing sector. With a focus on expanding events and activities for all ages, the fair continues to be a hub for Arabic publishing and global creative content.
As the literary world converges at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, it promises to be a celebration of cultural diversity, creativity, and the power of storytelling. With a lineup of engaging activities and a diverse range of publishers from around the world, the fair is set to inspire and captivate visitors with the magic of literature.