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Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 Media Kit
About Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) was launched in 1981 to offer an international cultural platform bringing together publishers, libraries, agents, cultural establishments, and the press under one roof to exchange ideas and identify promising opportunities, as well as foster communication and collaboration across the publishing and creative industries.
The annual exhibition brings together Arab, regional, and international publishers, and offers a comprehensive culture and knowledge programme that includes cultural, professional, educational, creative, and entertainment aspects, in addition to events, lectures, discussions, and specialised workshops featuring renowned writers and intellectuals. With its activities, the Fair contributes to the development of the publishing sector and creative industries, while enhancing the skills of local and Arab publishers and opening new horizons for them.
About the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre
The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), was established by a law issued by the President of the United Arab Emirates to promote the Arabic language, set general strategies for its scientific, educational, cultural, and creative development, and enhance cultural communication and Arabic language proficiency at the local and international levels.
The Centre also aims to support Arab talents in the fields of writing, translation, publishing, scientific research, and audiovisual content creation. It plays a key role in organising book fairs and supporting the publishing industry in the region. To achieve this, the Centre relies on dedicated programmes, the expertise of its teams, and partnerships with prestigious technical, cultural, and academic institutions around the world.
Brief on the ALC Leadership
H.E. Dr Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre
Hi Excellency Dr Ali bin Tamim holds the position of Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre. He has also served as Secretary-General of the Sheikh Zayed Book Award (SZBA) since 2011 and is Editor-in-Chief of ‘Al Markaz: The Journal of Arab Studies’ magazine, published by the international publishing house Brill.
H.E. bin Tamim has held several positions and responsibilities, including Chairperson of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre, member of the jury for the Prince of Poets programme, and member of the Higher Committee of the Emirates Appreciation Award, and judge for several cultural awards in the UAE, most notably the Dubai Culture Award and the Khalifa Award for Education. He also managed the Kalima Project for Translation, served as General Manager of Abu Dhabi Media from 2016 to 2019, as well as Chairman of the Executive Committee and Member of the Board of Directors of the National Archives - Abu Dhabi from 2015 to 2018.
Dr bin Tamim received his PhD in Literary Criticism from Yarmouk University in Jordan in 2005, and his master’s degree in Arabic Language and Literature from the University of Jordan in 2001. He has contributed to numerous media and cultural initiatives in the United Arab Emirates.
Beijing Language and Culture University in the People’s Republic of China awarded him a professorship in recognition of his scientific, intellectual, and academic career, as well as for his efforts to invigorate literary and critical studies, and his distinguished contributions to supporting Arab culture and strengthening global cultural dialogue.
H.E. Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre and Director of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
H.E. Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji is one of the UAE’s leading cultural figures, with more than two decades of experience contributing to the development of the country’s cultural landscape. Since 2003, he has led pioneering initiatives under the umbrella of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi (DCT Abu Dhabi), reinforcing the role of the Arabic language at the heart of the cultural, creative, and educational sectors, while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s international cultural influence.
Since his appointment to the role of Executive Director of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre in 2022, H.E. Al Tunaiji has since led the Centre’s strategic agenda to create real-life impact. Under his leadership, the Centre has seen notable growth across the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, Al Ain Book Festival, and Al Dhafra Book Festival, which he revitalised in a contemporary format. He also contributed to launching leading initiatives, such as the Kanz Al Jeel Award for Nabati poetry, Sard Al Thahab Award for narrative arts, Arabian Days festival, and the Congress of Arabic and Creative Industries (Congress ACI), reaffirming the UAE’s commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting innovation.
H.E. Al Tunaiji has worked to strengthen the international standing of the ALC’s core programmes, including the Sheikh Zayed Book Award, Kalima Project for Translation, and Esdarat publishing programme, further enhancing Abu Dhabi’s position as a global centre of literary and research excellence and a platform for intercultural dialogue.
With a career spanning journalism and senior administration, Al Tunaiji previously served as Director of Media and Public Relations at DCT Abu Dhabi. He is also the author of several published works, including ‘From and to the Depths of the Nation’, ‘Mosaic’, ‘Her Majesty’s Mistakes’, ‘Inspired by Emirati Poetry’, and ‘Immortal Despite Being Absent’.
Through his thoughtful leadership and commitment to innovation, Al Tunaiji continues to reinforce Abu Dhabi’s status as a leading global centre for the Arabic language, cultural communication, and the creative industries.
Key Media Messages for the ADIBF
35th Anniversary
The 35th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair celebrates a cultural journey spanning more than four decades, during which it has contributed to consolidating Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional and global centre for knowledge and the publishing industry. The Fair presents a distinguished model for sustainable cultural projects combining intellectual heritage with a forward-looking vision, while keeping pace with transformations in the global cultural landscape.
Pillars of the 35th Edition
The 35th edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair demonstrates a cultural vision marked by openness; the 2026 Fair features Balkan culture as Guest of Honour, ‘Don Quixote’ as Book of the World, and Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi as Focus Personality. These selections affirm the convergence of Eastern and Western cultures, underlining the Fair’s celebration of shared human heritage, where books serve as a bridge for dialogue and communication between nations.
An International Platform for Publishing and Knowledge Exchange
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 is an active international platform that brings together leading publishing houses, thinkers, and creatives from around the world, providing a professional environment that supports book, translation, and publishing industries. The Fair reflects the UAE’s commitment to strengthening the role of culture as a pillar of development and a key contributor to the knowledge economy.
Quality Content, Specialised Sessions, and a Global Outlook
The ADIBF presents a diverse Cultural Programme featuring intellectual sessions and specialised seminars that discuss literature, translation, innovation, and cultural digitisation, bringing together writers, researchers, and experts from around the world. The Programme provides in-depth dialogue spaces that contribute to developing cultural awareness and keeping pace with knowledge transformations in the digital age.
Supporting Local Talent and Nurturing New Generations of Readers
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 places special emphasis on supporting emerging literary talent and encouraging local publishing through training programmes, workshops, and face-to-face meetings with Emirati and Arab writers. The Fair aims to empower young creatives, expand the pool of readers, and advance the global presence of Arab cultural production.
An Integrated Cultural Experience for Visitors
The Fair offers a comprehensive cultural experience that combines knowledge, entertainment, and interaction through book signings, literary dialogues, and educational activities designed for different age groups. This experience is designed to bring audiences closer to the world of books and transform a visit to the Fair into an inspiring knowledge journey.
An Enduring Commitment to Reading Culture and the Knowledge Economy
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is one of the most prominent expressions of the UAE’s commitment to building a society of avid readers that supports innovation and strengthens the knowledge economy. Through its continuity and development, the Fair reinforces the role of culture as a long-term investment in people and an active element in sustainable development.
Media Narrative
35 editions
From continuity to impact.
95 countries
From a local fair to a global platform.
1,500 events
From book display to a holistic cultural experience.
7 new countries
From international participation to expanding the network of cultural dialogue.
Official Website of the Fair
https://adbookfair.com/en/adibf
Key Figures
- 35th edition
- Number of exhibitors: 1,200
- Number of participating countries: 95
- Number of events: 1,500+
- Number of participating figures: 380+
Abu Dhabi International Book Fair’s Vision
The Fair is built on a clear vision to:
- Support the Arab publishing industry and enhance its global competitiveness.
- Create a sustainable platform for exchanging copyright and translation rights.
- Promote reading as an ongoing social practice.
- Build cultural bridges between East and West.
ADIBF 2026 Pillars
- Guest of Honour: Balkan culture
- Focus Personality: Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi
- Book of the World: Don Quixote
ADIBF 2026 Themes
- Global culture and civilisational dialogue
- Innovation and the creation of the future
- The arts and live cultural experiences
ADIBF 2026 Programmes
- Educational Programme: 100+ sessions
- Cultural Programme: 47+ sessions
- Music and Arts Programme: 60+ performances and 3 musical evenings
- Professional Programme: 30+ sessions
- Children and Young Adults Programme: 1,000+ events
- World’s Cuisines: 25+ demonstrations
Frequently Asked Questions
Who organises the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair?
The Fair is organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, part of the Department of Culture and Tourism - Abu Dhabi.
What is the number of the current edition of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair?
It is the 35th edition of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
When will the Fair be held?
The Fair will be held from 13 to 18 September 2026.
Where will the Fair take place?
The Fair will take place at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi.
What is new at this year’s Fair?
The key new additions this year can be summarised as follows:
- For the first time, the Fair will open with a theatrical performance.
- The Fair has introduced the ‘My Story World’ initiative, which allows visitors to enjoy a unique creative experience where they participate in creating a narrative through interactive workshops supervised by Egyptian novelist Ahmed Mourad, American writer Todd Gallicano, and Emirati writer Nadia Al Najjar. This reflects the Fair’s commitment to involving audiences in the production of creative content.
- The ADIBF has introduced the Youth: Now programme, which hosts influential young people in sessions that allow audiences to help formulate questions and propose challenges, facilitating spontaneous dialogues focused on idea creation, content impact, and interactions in the contemporary digital spaces.
- The Fair has introduced the Emirati Pioneers initiative, which will become an annual pillar alongside the Focus Personality, Guest of Honour, and Book of the World. It is a national initiative that seeks to document the experiences of leading cultural and intellectual figures in the UAE.
- The Fair will launch an all-new smart app that transforms the visitor experience into an interactive journey, leaving a lasting impression and making visitors part of the events.
Who is the Focus Personality selected by the Fair?
Renowned scholar Al Khalil ibn Ahmad Al Farahidi.
Why was he selected?
He was a scholar described as encyclopaedic due to his outstanding contributions in language, grammar, and music. He established scientific research and classification methods that inspired the world, founded the science of Arabic prosody, authored the first comprehensive Arabic dictionary ‘Kitab Al Ayn’, and created diacritical marks to regulate correct pronunciation. Among his students were major linguists such as Sibawayh and Al Asma’i.
Who is the Guest of Honour for this edition?
Balkan culture, in collaboration and partnership with the Republic of North Macedonia.
Why was it selected?
The selection aims to spotlight Balkan culture and introduce audiences to it, in line with the ALC’s strategic objectives to build bridges of communication between the Arabic language and various cultures, thereby creating new prospects for cooperation in the creative industries and enhancing openness to the civilisations and cultures of the world. This reflects the values of communication, peace, and fraternity with the nations of the world that distinguish the UAE’s flourishing and diverse cultural landscape.
What is the Book of the World for this edition?
The novel Don Quixote.
Why was it selected?
The selection of ‘Don Quixote’ by Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes as Book of the World at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair celebrates a literary work that marked a historical turning point in the course of human narrative. It is widely regarded as the true beginning of the modern novel and a landmark in the development of global literary consciousness.
‘Don Quixote’ went beyond the boundaries of the traditional tale to establish critical thinking, embodying the transition from myth to enlightenment, which led to approaching reality with a new awareness. This made the novel a lasting source of inspiration for thinkers and writers across the centuries. It is classified among the greatest masterpieces of world literature, and remains, more than four centuries after its publication, a living text rich in meanings and open to contemporary interpretation.
What is the theme of this year’s Fair, and what does it signify?
This year’s theme is ‘Turn the Page, Read the World’. It reflects the profound presence that the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair has gained throughout its distinguished journey, highlighting openness to other cultures and the transcendence of geographic boundaries through books. The theme focuses on transforming reading from an individual act into a tool for building bridges of communication between nations, exploring diverse cultures, and understanding them deeply in support of the values of tolerance and coexistence.
How many countries are participating in the Fair this year?
95 countries.
How many countries are participating in the Fair for the first time this year?
Seven countries are participating for the first time: Kosovo, Colombia, Argentina, Ecuador, Peru, Venezuela, and Cuba.
How many exhibitors are participating?
1,200 exhibitors from around the world.
How many events will be held during the Fair?
More than 1,500 events.
Which popular book market is the Fair celebrating this year, and why?
The Fair is celebrating Souq Al Haboos in Casablanca, Morocco – one of the oldest and most renowned book markets in the Maghreb, dating back to the 1920s. It is a prime destination for finding seminal works and rare manuscripts, and is home to long-established bookshops and well-known pavement bookstalls, making it a cultural time capsule of the city.
Will the initiative to honour pioneers of Arab publishing continue in this edition of the Fair, and which publishing house will be honoured this year?
Yes, the initiative will continue, and in this exceptional edition, the Fair will honour:
- Publishing houses that participated in the Fair’s earliest editions.
- The first generation of organisers of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair.
Information for Media
- Media contact: Email: [email protected]