Being widely regarded as one of the biggest cultural events in the Middle East, the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 is scheduled to return once more. From 26 April to May 5, Abu Dhabi will be hosting a landmark gathering for all book enthusiasts at the prestigious Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. Here, Abu Dhabi brings together more than 1000 exhibitors and 150,000 visitors from around the world. This international book fair is a haven for avid readers who are provided with an unparalleled opportunity to explore the latest trends.
As it heads into its 34th edition, it will integrate Arabic and international publishing houses, which deliver a wide range of fiction, nonfiction, academic works, and literature for children. In all its years, the objective of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 is to foster knowledge, creativity, and cross-cultural dialogue.
What can readers expect this year?
- More than 1000 exhibitors from 60 different countries
- Dedicated Pavilion for the Guest of Honour from Egypt
- Interactive Workshops and masterclasses on digital publishing
- Cultural Performances, live reading, and art installations
Evolution of Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
It first began in 1981 with a vision of reintroducing literature and storytelling with new reforms under the name of the Islamic Book Fair. It was further taken to new heights in 1986 with a complete rebranding under the leadership of the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan. By 1993, it transformed into an annual spring fixture at ADNEC, which gained attention from publishers, authors, and intellectuals from all around the world.
- 1981 – Initial launch of the book fair under the name of the Islamic Book Affair
- 1986 – A new name is proposed, called Abu Dhabi International Book Affair, which broadens its identity beyond the country.
- 1993 – Formation of Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre as the permanent address for the Book Fair.
- 2000 – Digital publishing forums are introduced.
- 2015 – Sustainable initiatives are launched, which include e-catalogs and recycling stations.
Reasons not to skip the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025
Readers & Book Lovers
- Launch of new books and showcasing of rare edition novels.
- Chance to meet some of the most well-known authors for live readings and signing sessions.
- Attend cultural performances, poetry slams, and storytelling hours.
Authors & Budding Writers
- Participation in pitching sessions with Literary agents.
- Knowledge of self-publishing and digital distribution.
- Chance of collaborating with reputed authors and learning more about effective writing.
For industry professionals
- Exploring the latest digital publishing technologies, which include the likes of AI editing tools to mobile reading platforms.
- Attending professional forums on metadata management, copyright law, and market analytics.
Students & Teachers
- Engaging in interactive academic seminars on research publication.
- Featuring a dedicated children’s zone for storytelling & art workshops
- Accessing educational discounts and group registration benefits.
Engaging attractions and programs
Cultural Program
- Arabian Nights stories – Theatrical readings of some of the famous Arabic folklore like One Thousand and One Nights Tales
- Top 50 Arabic Novels – Expert discussions that highlight transformative works of modern Arabic culture.
- Cinema & Literature Symposium – Live session with the famous movie star Hussein Fahmy on adapting novels to the screen.
- Live Book Signing – Daily autograph sessions.
Educational Programs
- Workshops for Schools & Universities – Engaging seminars focused on storytelling, research writing, and critical thinking.
- Creative Corner for Children – Some of the famous children’s authors and illustrators come together for engaging sessions based on art and illustration.
- Culinary History Workshops – Hands-on cooking demonstration along with fun insights on food and the culinary history of the country.
- Academic Publishing Clinics – Interactive education sessions on transforming theses and dissertations into published monographs.
Note
Residents living at Damac Properties Dubai can attend the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 at Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, which is 1 hour drive from Dubai.
Conclusion
This time, Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 will be much more than just an event of hosting some of the famous novels and fiction globally. It will be a celebration of the country’s cultural vision, as it will aim towards promoting the Arabic language and its literacy to expand it around the world.