Picture used for illustrative purpose only.

The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) announced that the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) will be extended to 10 days, starting from its 34th edition, set for 26th April to 5th May 2025.

This decision aims to promote innovation in publishing and enhance cultural exchange.

The extended duration will provide more opportunities for local and Arab authors to connect with international publishers, supporting the establishment of industry standards. 

The event’s infrastructure will also be upgraded to improve facilities for exhibitors and visitors and expand educational programmes.

The extension follows a comprehensive study by the ALC, focusing on strategic goals to boost visitor numbers and sales.

A 2024 survey showed that most visitors and exhibitors favoured a longer fair, which promotes Arabic language and cultural productions.

The extension aligns with regional exhibition standards, which typically last 10 to 12 days.

This move enhances professional interaction in publishing and creative industries, bolstering Abu Dhabi's role as a hub for Arabic publishing.

Dr. Ali Bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, asserted that extending the duration of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will strengthen its regional and global competitiveness, while allowing visitors and exhibitors to benefit more from this prominent cultural event and its takeaways.

"The decision to extend the fair’s duration will enhance the event’s international standing, allowing more time for delegations and guests from around the world to participate and engage,” Bin Tamim added.

"This will also enable the event to welcome more local and international visitors, broadening its reach and popularity, and ultimately contributing to the cultural economy by increasing economic activities related to books and publishing, which, in turn, supports publishers and authors, providing them more time to showcase their work and interact with the audience, thus increasing sales and promotional opportunities.”

With the decision to extend the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre aims to encourage greater cultural interaction and communication between authors and the public, by organising a wider range of cultural events, including seminars, book signings, and workshops.

Furthermore, it aims to provide more opportunities to visit the fair, particularly for students and employees, who may not be able to attend on weekdays, in addition to enhancing cultural tourism by attracting tourists interested in culture and books to Abu Dhabi, thereby establishing the UAE capital as a leading cultural and tourist destination.

WAM