Every year, Abu Dhabi is transformed into a bustling centre for book enthusiasts, intellectuals and creatives from around the globe. The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2026 returns for its 34th edition, promising a unique cultural experience that celebrates the magic of words, art and ideas.
Whether you’re a passionate reader, an aspiring writer, a publisher or simply curious about the world of books, ADIBF 2026 is the place to be this spring.
- Location
- Event Dates and Timings
- About ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
- Getting to Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
- Highlights of the 2026 Programme
- Why Visit the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
- Thinking About Staying Nearby?
- Key Takeaways
- FAQs
Overview of the Abu Dhabi Book Fair
The Abu Dhabi Book Fair began in 1981 with the support of the late H.H. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, Founder of the UAE. Today, it is organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre, which is part of the Department of Culture and Tourism. The 34th edition of the fair is scheduled to take place from 13 to 18 Septembe, 2026, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
Location
The Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC) is the official venue for this annual literary exhibition. The venue is easily accessible by public transport, taxis, and car parks. It’s easily reachable whether you’re visiting from within Abu Dhabi or from another emirate.
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Event Dates and Timings
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 runs from 13 to 18 September, daily from 9:00 am to 10:00 pm.
Whether you’re planning a full-day visit or just an evening browse, the fair’s schedule is designed to accommodate all lifestyles.
Dates
13 to 18 September, 2026
Timings
09:00 AM to 10:00 PM
About ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is one of the capital’s major venues for exhibitions, conferences and events. ADIBF 2026 will take place across Halls 1 to 7, with Car Parks A and B listed as the designated parking areas for the event.
It’s built to handle large-scale exhibitions, which is why it hosts the six-day book fair and its full programme of cultural, educational and professional events.
Getting to Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
| Option | Details |
| By car | ADIBF 2026 visitors can use Car Parks A and B at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi. |
| By taxi | Abu Dhabi taxis are available at the adjacent Aloft Hotel entrance. ADNEC lists 600 53 53 53 for taxi bookings. |
| By Careem | ADNEC currently offers visitors and exhibitors 15% off rides to and from the venue using promo code ADNEC. |
| By bus | Bus route 040 serves ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi seven days a week. |
Highlights of the 2026 Programme
ADIBF brings together Arab, regional and international publishers alongside a diverse programme of talks, panel discussions and specialised workshops.
Focus Personality: Al Farahidi
This year’s fair honours Al Farahidi, the renowned linguist behind “Kitab al Ayn,” the first Arabic dictionary. The tribute also recognises his work on Arabic diacritical marks and his role in founding the science of Arabic prosody.
Guest of Honour: The Balkans
The Guest of Honour pavilion celebrates Balkan culture, arts, and cuisine, with talks and sessions featuring prominent regional figures.
Book of the World: Don Quixote
“Don Quixote,” often considered the first modern European novel, is this year’s Book of the World – a work that has shaped literature, music, theatre, and film for centuries.
Why Visit the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair
The international book fair is open to everyone, not just industry visitors. Beyond browsing new releases, there are talks, book signings, and workshops running throughout the six days.
Thinking About Staying Nearby?
If the fair has you considering a move closer to Abu Dhabi, you can browse apartments for rent in Abu Dhabi or apartments for sale in Abu Dhabi on Property Finder, and check out our Abu Dhabi area guide to learn more about the city’s neighbourhoods.
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Key Takeaways
- ADIBF 2026 is the 35th edition, held under the patronage of Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
- It runs from 13 to 18 September 2026, 9:00 am to 10:00 pm daily, at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi (Halls 1-7).
- Car Parks A and B are the designated parking areas; bus route 040 also serves the venue.
- This year’s highlights: Al Farahidi as Focus Personality, the Balkans as Guest of Honour, and “Don Quixote” as Book of the World.
FAQs
Yes! Entry to the book fair is free for all visitors. Some workshops or special sessions may require prior registration.
Yes! Thousands of books across various genres and languages will be available for purchase at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2025 at discounted rates.
Yes! The fair features a special ‘Children & Youth Programme’ with educational activities, storytelling sessions, games and more.
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, across Halls 1 to 7.
ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi is an exhibition and events venue in Abu Dhabi that hosts exhibitions, conferences and other major events. The 2026 Abu Dhabi International Book Fair will occupy Halls 1 to 7.
Yes. ADNEC lists Car Parks A and B as the designated parking areas for the 2026 fair.
Bus route 040 serves ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi seven days a week.
The Abu Dhabi International Book Fair is a wonderful chance for bookworms to meet authors, publications and more. It is also a chance for cultural exchange, both locally and internationally.
In addition, you can also explore the Sharjah Children’s Reading Festival and more on the Property Finder’s blog.
