The Abu Dhabi Book Fair is returning from May 15 to 21, 2025, and it’s shaping up to be one of the most exciting literary events of the year. Held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC), this year’s fair promises a packed week of books, ideas, creativity, and culture from around the globe.
What to Expect This Year
The 2025 edition of the Abu Dhabi Book Fair is all about celebrating the power of words to bring people together. With hundreds of publishing houses, authors, speakers, and book lovers expected to attend, the fair will feature a wide range of activities that cater to readers of all ages.
From fiction to history, science to poetry, the event will showcase books in Arabic, English, and many other languages. International publishing houses are gearing up to present their latest titles, while regional authors will get a spotlight to share stories rooted in Gulf and Arab culture.
Organizers say this year’s fair will be bigger, brighter, and more inclusive, highlighting everything from traditional storytelling to cutting-edge digital publishing.
A Star-Studded Lineup of Authors
One of the biggest attractions of the book fair is its impressive lineup of writers and thinkers. Several world-renowned authors, including bestselling novelists and award-winning poets, are expected to hold talks, sign books, and engage in Q&A sessions with fans.
There’s also strong representation from local and regional writers, reflecting the UAE’s growing literary scene. From emerging Emirati voices to well-established Arab writers, the fair is giving the spotlight to homegrown talent.
There will be panel discussions on current issues in literature, workshops for aspiring writers, and even live poetry readings. Whether you’re a fan of fiction or philosophy, there will be something to inspire you.
A Family-Friendly Cultural Experience
The Abu Dhabi Book Fair is not just for adults—it’s also a wonderful outing for families and children. The fair includes a dedicated “Children’s Corner” filled with activities like storytelling sessions, interactive games, and book readings designed especially for young minds.
There will be puppet shows, arts and crafts workshops, and fun educational exhibits that make reading fun and engaging. It’s part of a broader push to encourage reading among youth and promote lifelong learning through literature.
Parents can also explore parenting and educational books while their children are kept entertained in a safe, creative environment.
Spotlight on Sustainability and Innovation
One exciting theme at this year’s book fair is sustainability. The event is introducing eco-friendly practices across its layout, from recyclable materials to digital displays that reduce paper waste. Several panel discussions will explore the role of publishing in supporting environmental awareness.
Innovation is also a key focus, with the fair showcasing the latest trends in digital publishing. Expect to see augmented reality (AR) storybooks, eBook platforms, and apps that are transforming the way we read.
Publishers and tech innovators will present tools that help make literature more accessible to people with disabilities, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the magic of books.
A Global Meeting Place for Cultures
The Abu Dhabi Book Fair is more than just a literary gathering—it’s a global cultural celebration. Visitors will get a chance to experience traditions, languages, and ideas from countries across the world.
Every year, the fair features a “Guest of Honour” country, and this year promises something special. Expect cultural exhibitions, cooking demos, film screenings, and music performances that bring different cultures to life right inside the exhibition centre.
This focus on cultural exchange reflects Abu Dhabi’s mission to position itself as a global capital for dialogue, creativity, and innovation.
Business Opportunities for the Publishing Industry
For professionals in the publishing world, the fair is also a major business hub. There will be rights deals, publishing contracts, and translation opportunities discussed behind the scenes.
Workshops on book marketing, copyright issues, and digital strategy are part of the professional program, helping publishers and authors connect with the future of the industry.
The fair acts as a gateway for international publishers to enter the fast-growing Middle East and North Africa (MENA) market. With the UAE’s strong support for education and the arts, the country continues to attract global interest in its literary and cultural potential.
Promoting the Love of Reading Across the UAE
One of the fair’s long-term goals is to create a reading culture across the UAE. The book fair is part of a national strategy to promote books and reading among youth and adults alike.
Over the years, the event has supported many school programs, author meetups, and literary competitions to get people excited about books. This year, new outreach programs aim to bring more students, teachers, and readers into the heart of the fair.
The Abu Dhabi Book Fair has become a symbol of how literature can unite people, inspire change, and build a better future.
Plan Your Visit
The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre is easily accessible and equipped to welcome thousands of visitors each day. Entry is usually free or low-cost, making it an affordable and enriching experience for everyone.
Food stalls, cafés, book signing corners, and comfortable reading zones are all part of the layout. Whether you’re coming alone, with friends, or as a family, you’ll find plenty to explore and enjoy.
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