Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed inaugurates 16th Al Ain Book Festival

AL AIN Under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Ruler’s Representative in Al Ain Region, Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan bin Zayed Al Nahyan has inaugurated the 16th edition of the Al Ain Book Festival.

The festival, organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre under the theme All Eyes on Al Ain, will run until 30th November at Al Ain Square and several key venues across the city.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Hamdan toured the festival site and reviewed cultural programmes and events hosted this year, along with new publications presented by local and Arab publishing houses.

He was accompanied by Mohamed Khalifa Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Department of Culture and Tourism – Abu Dhabi; Saood Abdulaziz Al Hosani, Undersecretary of the department; Dr. Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre; and Saeed Hamdan Al Tunaiji, Executive Director of the centre.

He received a briefing on new initiatives introduced to expand the festival’s role in supporting cultural activity and the book industry. He also met publishers and writers and heard their views on challenges facing the sector in light of digital developments, as well as opportunities to increase the reach of Arabic content in international markets.

Leadership commitment to cultural development

Al Mubarak said the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hazza bin Zayed Al Nahyan for Al Ain Book Festival 2025 reflects the Abu Dhabi leadership’s continued commitment to culture as a foundation of national development and community cohesion.

He noted that the festival contributes to cultural tourism and the creative economy in the Al Ain Region, aligning with the objectives of the Year of Community 2025. He added that these events reinforce Abu Dhabi’s standing as a cultural centre that supports creativity across all segments of society and ensures culture remains part of daily life.

Strengthening the Arabic language and cultural identity

Dr. Tamim said the festival serves as an important platform for strengthening the Arabic language as a core element of national identity and for helping younger generations participate in global cultural dialogue. He said each edition enhances the community’s connection to reading, celebrates Emirati heritage, and offers a dynamic environment filled with arts, music and creative activities.

He said the event has become a venue for meaningful cultural exchange and a showcase for Emirati writers and publishers.

Dr. Tamim added that the UAE’s publishing sector continues to grow with the support of the country’s leadership and cultural institutions. He said the festival contributes to this development by providing opportunities for local publishers to engage with readers and peers in the region and beyond, helping Emirati literature reach audiences at Arab and international levels.

Festival programme and activities

This year’s festival continues its efforts to establish the Al Ain Region as a centre for literature, art and intellectual exchange, reflecting the city’s heritage and character. Its programme reflects Abu Dhabi’s vision to support the Arabic language, preserve national identity and encourage young Emirati talent.

The agenda includes more than 200 cultural, artistic and educational activities, bringing together leading figures in literature, poetry and the arts, in cooperation with academic institutions across the UAE. More than 220 publishers and exhibitors are participating.

The programme includes 28 cultural sessions and 54 theatrical performances, along with over 100 workshops focused on literature, art and science. Ninety workshops are designed for children and three for People of Determination, reflecting the festival’s emphasis on inclusivity and creativity.

Celebrating poetry and cultural heritage

The fourth edition of the Poetry Nights: The Sung Word programme at Qasr Al Muwaiji highlights the poetic tradition of the Al Ain Region. Over eight evenings, more than 30 poets will present works that express Emirati values. This year’s events connect with the Year of Community 2025, combining tradition and creativity through poetry, music and performance.

Organised with government bodies and community councils in the Al Ain Region, the Cultural Programme also features sessions on social issues, national heritage, youth empowerment and communication between generations. These sessions offer opportunities for older generations to engage with young creatives and promote dialogue, responsibility and generosity.

New experiences and community engagement

This year’s edition introduces Flavourful Nights at Al Ain Square – Hazza bin Zayed Stadium, offering live cooking demonstrations showcasing Emirati cuisine. Local chefs will prepare meals and dinners in interactive settings to encourage innovation and community participation.

At the main venue, the Educational Programme includes scientific and theatrical activities, entertainment competitions and reading sessions for children and families. The Alpha Corner hosts workshops combining art, science, technology and literature for children and youth. An Educational Roadshow will also be introduced in schools and universities to promote the festival’s focus on supporting education and culture among young people.

As part of the festival’s agenda, the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre will recognise the winners of the Kanz Al Jeel Award, which honours literary creativity and contributions to the UAE’s poetic and literary fields.

Al Ain Book Festival 2025 provides a platform that showcases Arab and global culture, promotes artistic and intellectual exchange and brings the community together. The festival continues its work to support the Arabic language as a link between past and future and reinforces Abu Dhabi’s leadership in regional and international cultural spheres.

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