As part of its mission to preserve and promote Arab culture and recognise the pioneers of knowledge production, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2025 presents two landmark initiatives that embody a profound balance: honouring the enduring legacy of Arab publishing, while nurturing the literary talents shaping its future.

Honouring Publishing Houses: The Memory and Pillars of Arab Publishing

In recognition of their pivotal role in building Arab intellectual consciousness and enhancing the presence of Arab culture both locally and globally, the Fair will pay tribute to six pioneering Arab publishing houses. These publishers have, for decades, contributed significantly to book production and marketing, promoted reading, enriched Arabic content, and played an active role in the development of book fairs across the region.

This honour is rooted in their rich histories and influential contributions to the publishing industry. The list includes long-standing institutions, the oldest of which dates back over 160 years:

• Dar Sader, Lebanon: Established in 1863
• Dar Al Maarif, Egypt: Established in 1890
• Dar Al Fikr, Syria: Established in 1957
• Dubai Library, UAE: Established in 1969
• That Al Salasil, Kuwait: Established in 1972
• Dar Al Shorok, Jordan: Established in 1979

The Fair will also present a visual narrative of each house’s journey, highlighting its milestones and challenges, affirming Abu Dhabi’s role as a custodian of Arab publishing heritage.

The Self-Publisher: Elevating Emirati Voices

Alongside this historical recognition, the Fair looks ahead to the future of the Arabic book with its Self-Publisher Initiative, which aims to empower Emirati authors to take their first steps into the world of publishing independently.

The initiative offers visibility for their works, marketing opportunities, new partnerships, and direct engagement with readers. It particularly focuses on encouraging youth to unleash their literary, intellectual, and creative potential.

This year’s participating self-publishers include:

• Ali Abu Al Reesh and Hazzaa Abu Al Reesh
• Fatima Al Suwaidi and Noura Al Suwaidi
• Hind Al Musallam and Sara Al Shamsi
• Dr Athba Al Mazzrouei and Essa Al Yellili
• Alfai Al Marzooqi and Hamad Al Marzooqi
• Aisha Al Fahim
• Meera Al Mansoori
• Misk Waheeb

Through these two initiatives, the 34th edition of the ADIBF reaffirms its commitment to supporting the publishing industry, from its historical foundations to its future aspirations, bridging the experience of past pioneers with the ambition of a new generation.