35th Abu Dhabi International Book Fair Strengthens Cultural Dialogue with 1,500 Events from September 13-18, 2026 at ADNEC
ABU DHABI: The 35th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will take place from September 13 to 18, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). Organized under the patronage of President His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the event is set to feature approximately 1,500 events and will host participants from 95 countries. The theme for this year’s fair is “Turn the Page, Read the World,” emphasizing the importance of cultural exchange and innovation.
A Platform for Global Cultural Exchange
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi, is spearheading the organization of the fair. This year’s program aims to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position on the global cultural map by bringing together prominent figures from the publishing sector and the creative industries. The event aligns with the UAE’s Year of Family aspirations, focusing on nurturing lifelong learning and fostering community connections.
The fair will explore three main themes: global culture and civilizational dialogue, innovation and future creation, and the arts and live cultural experiences. These themes reflect the fair’s commitment to showcasing diverse perspectives and promoting intercultural dialogue.
Celebrating Cultural Heritage
The Balkans will be honored as the Guest of Honour at this year’s fair. Additionally, the event will pay tribute to the scholar Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as its Focus Personality, and Miguel de Cervantes’ “Don Quixote” will be recognized as the Book of the World. These selections highlight the fair’s dedication to acknowledging influential figures and works that have shaped human thought and cultural dialogue throughout history.
Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of DCT Abu Dhabi, emphasized the fair’s role in cultivating a vibrant cultural ecosystem. He stated that the event has evolved into a leading platform for cultural exchange, supporting the growth of the global publishing and creative industries. Al Mubarak also noted that initiatives like the fair are crucial for inspiring future generations of readers and creators, contributing to the emirate’s social, intellectual, and economic development.
Engaging with Thought Leaders
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, remarked on the fair’s ongoing mission to connect people, ideas, and cultures. He highlighted that the event serves as a vital platform for cultural dialogue, allowing participants and visitors to engage with leading thinkers, writers, and publishers. The fair aims to explore emerging trends in the publishing industry and the broader cultural landscape.
In a first for the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, a special ceremony will open the event, celebrating its 35-year journey. This opening will feature a theatrical performance inspired by Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi, along with music and patriotic songs that explore the UAE’s cultural narrative.
Diverse Programming for All Ages
The fair will offer a wide-ranging program of cultural and knowledge-based events, including dedicated educational and creative initiatives for children and young adults. A professional program will also include a specialized conference focused on emerging trends in the publishing industry. Additionally, the fair will introduce “Poetry Nights,” featuring poetry readings, literary conversations, and critical discussions with distinguished Arab poets.
Continuing a long-standing tradition, the fair will host the 2026 Sheikh Zayed Book Award ceremony, honoring this year’s laureates and celebrating the award’s contributions to authorship, translation, and scholarly research. This aligns with the fair’s broader mission to advance cultural life and support the creative industries.
A Vision for the Future
As the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair enters its 35th year, it continues to solidify its role as a global platform for cultural dialogue and a key driver of growth in the publishing and creative sectors. This commitment reflects the UAE’s vision to place culture and knowledge at the forefront of sustainable development, harnessing cultural initiatives as a source of soft power and promoting intercultural dialogue.
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Published on 2026-08-19 10:23:00 • By the Editorial Desk
