UAE: The 33rd Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) kicks off in Abu Dhabi today. The fair will last until May 5 and will feature more than 1,350 publishers from 90 countries, including 140 first-time participants. This year's fair is considered one of the most significant cultural events in the region and will offer a diverse range of activities and cultural events to unite people.
Abu Dhabi takes great pride in its cultural heritage, and one area where this is particularly evident is the city's love for books and reading. From the numerous bookstores throughout the city to the annual Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, there is a genuine passion for literature and a deep appreciation for the written word.
The ADIBF 2024 will feature Naguib Mahfouz, the first Arab author to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, as the focus personality of this year's edition. Mahfouz has made an undeniable impact with his literary works, most notably the Cairo Trilogy and Children of Gebelawi.
The event's cultural programme includes a range of sessions, such as 'Naguib Mahfouz: An Enduring Legacy,' 'Naguib Mahfouz's Descendants,' 'Worlds of Naguib Mahfouz,' and 'Naguib Mahfouz Novels in a New Format.' The last session will introduce illustrated novels of the late author, to be published for the first time at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024.
For the first time in the fair's history, a comprehensive digital payment system is being implemented to provide a seamless buying experience for visitors. The event highlights the importance of global cultural exchange and aims to foster deeper understanding and cooperation between nations.
This year, 12 countries will be participating for the first time, including Greece, Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Pakistan, Cyprus, Mozambique, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Brazil. The event showcases the importance of global cultural exchange and aims to foster deeper understanding and cooperation between nations.
The ADIBF 2024 will also host the Arab Republic of Egypt as the Guest of Honour to showcase its rich and diverse cultural programme, which reflects its intellectual, knowledge, and civilisational history. Egypt's selection for the programme reaffirms the deep-seated and historic relationship between the two countries, underlining the ALC's commitment to enhancing cultural and intellectual collaboration.
In conclusion, The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2024 celebrates literature and culture that should not be missed. With numerous activities, cultural programmes, and the participation of top publishers worldwide, the event promises to be an unforgettable experience.