The 34th edition of the Abu dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) is set to return with a vibrant celebration of literature, knowledge, and cross-cultural exchange, taking place from April 26 to May 5 at the ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. This year’s fair, held under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, President of the UAE, promises to be a landmark event in the region’s cultural calendar.
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC), the fair embraces the theme ‘Knowledge Illuminates Our Community’, and will bring together a remarkable 1,400 exhibitors from 96 countries, making it a truly global event. Visitors can expect an impressive lineup of over 2,000 activities, ranging from literary discussions and cultural workshops to technology-focused conferences, ensuring there’s something for everyone—readers, writers, thinkers, publishers, and digital innovators alike.
Honouring a Legacy: Ibn Sina as Focus Personality
This year’s Focus Personality is none other than the legendary Persian polymath Ibn Sina (Avicenna), in commemoration of the 1,000th anniversary of his monumental medical text, The Canon of Medicine. Widely considered a cornerstone of both Islamic and global medical knowledge, the Canon laid the groundwork for many principles in modern medicine and was taught in European universities for centuries.
Through a series of panel discussions, exhibitions, and interactive installations, the fair will delve into Ibn Sina’s enduring legacy in science, medicine, and philosophy. Scholars and experts from around the world will reflect on his influence not only in the Arab world but across civilizations, underscoring his contributions to the intellectual heritage of humanity.
A Timeless Classic: ‘One Thousand and One Nights’ as Book of the World
Adding a magical dimension to the event, the ADIBF will pay tribute to the iconic literary masterpiece ‘One Thousand and One Nights’. Chosen as the ‘Book of the World’, this enduring collection of tales continues to captivate audiences with its rich storytelling, moral lessons, and imaginative narratives. Celebrations will highlight its cross-cultural impact, inspiring countless writers, artists, and creatives across generations and geographies.
Spotlight on Caribbean Culture
In a move that highlights the fair’s global spirit, the Caribbean region has been named Guest of Honour for 2025. This special focus shines a light on the Caribbean’s diverse cultural expressions, literature, music, and oral storytelling traditions. It reflects Abu Dhabi’s commitment to intercultural dialogue and its ambition to be a hub for international cultural and intellectual exchange.
The Caribbean showcase will include performances, literary panels, and collaborative artistic projects that bridge geographical and cultural boundaries.
Innovation and the Future of Publishing
In line with the growing convergence of technology and literature, this year’s fair puts a strong spotlight on artificial intelligence (AI), digital publishing, and sustainability. The Digitising Creativity conference will examine how AI is transforming the creative industries, from content generation to audience engagement.
Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, emphasized the importance of innovation:
“The growing international interest in the creative industries calls for the development of both traditional and digital publishing processes. The fair aims to stay ahead by organising workshops and discussions with global experts to forecast the future of the book industry.”
The ADIBF Professional Programme will support industry leaders with networking opportunities, business matchmaking, and seminars that explore publishing’s evolving landscape.
Experiences for All Ages
Beyond books, the fair is packed with a variety of interactive experiences. Visitors can attend poetry nights blending classical Arabic and Nabati poetry, enjoy live concerts, cinema screenings, photography workshops, and even cooking demonstrations that reflect the fair’s multicultural spirit.
Children and youth will have access to specially curated programmes, including the Alpha Corner, offering hands-on learning experiences in language, science, and culture. These workshops aim to instill a deep appreciation for Arabic heritage and foster creativity and critical thinking among young minds.
The third season of the ‘Podcast from Abu Dhabi’ will also return, engaging audiences in dynamic conversations around literature, society, and innovation.
With its rich blend of tradition and modernity, the 2025 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair reaffirms its role as a beacon of knowledge, dialogue, and artistic expression—inviting the world to gather, learn, and be inspired in the heart of the UAE.
