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) 2025 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 2025 is the place to be this spring.
- Overview of the Abu Dhabi Book Fair
- Location
- Event Dates and Timings
- Programmes in Abu Dhabi Book Fair 2025
- Become an Exhibitor
- Esteemed Speakers of 2025
- Translation & Publishing Support
- Who Can Apply?
- 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 April 26 to May 5, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC).
This annual Abu Dhabi event is a celebration of intellectual exchange and cultural innovation. It will feature exciting panel discussions, live author presentations, art displays and expert training sessions. With the theme ‘Knowledge Illuminates Our Community’, the 2025 edition invites participants to explore how storytelling, research, art and design contribute to collective growth.
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 Book Fair 2025 is a week-long event, with extended daily hours to allow visitors to drop in at their convenience. Visiting the fair is one of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi during spring.
Whether you’re planning a full-day visit or just an evening browse, the fair’s schedule is designed to accommodate all lifestyles.
Dates
April 28 to May 5, 2025
Timings
09:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Themed Programmes at ADIBF 2025
The fair features five exciting theme pillars that make the event both dynamic and inclusive:
1. Inspire
This theme is all about culture, literature and intellectual exchange. It features poetry readings, cultural dialogues, translation discussions and literary panels. Don’t miss the Poetry Majlis, the well-loved Podcast from Abu Dhabi and exciting book signings.
One of the main highlights this year is the special tribute to Ibn Sina as the renowned personality and celebration of One Thousand and One Nights as the Book of the World.
2. Create
This pillar celebrates creativity in all forms, from culinary arts and cinema to design and photography. Dive into hands-on workshops and explore how literature connects with visual and performing arts. Enjoy short films at the Black Box Cinema and live music performances that add a vibrant energy to the fair.
3. Learn
Perfect for young visitors, this theme blends education and fun through storytelling, games and language-focused activities. Interactive sections like the Children’s Oasis and Alpha Corner aim to enhance Arabic language skills in a joyful, engaging way. There’s also a World’s Cuisine area where kids can learn through food-related experiences.
4. Develop
Concerned with the future of publishing and creative industries. It features thought-provoking dialogue on the role of artificial intelligence in literature, as well as new technology and innovation in publishing.
5. Explore
Emphasises the participation of government and cultural agencies that make the fair a success. Exhibitors provide an extensive selection of books and organise different cultural activities, allowing visitors to learn about new and traditional works and establish cross-cultural links.
Become an Exhibitor
If you’re part of the publishing industry and want to connect with global and regional readers, authors and professionals, this is your opportunity.
As an exhibitor at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, you gain the opportunity to:
- Grow your brand presence
- Build valuable business relationships
- Reach wider audiences
Please note that exhibitor applications for the 2025 edition are now closed. Approved exhibitors will have access to their stands for setup starting April 25, 2025, from 08:00 AM. Additionally, please note that custom-built stands require special permission for early access and must be fully set up by 05:00 PM on April 25. Stands must remain open during all visiting hours.
Esteemed Speakers of 2025
This year’s lineup of speakers features award-winning scientists, historians, authors and thinkers from across the globe:
- Deepak Chopra, MD: International wellness icon and author of more than 95 books.
- Conn Iggulden: British author of historical fiction, Emperor and Conqueror series.
- Professor Omar Yaghi: Chemist and leader in Metal-Organic Frameworks.
- Sahel Alhiyari: Prominent architect and winner of the Great Arab Minds Award 2024.
- Dr Roy Casagranda: Political scientist and proponent of Arab cultural heritage.
- Mena Massoud: Actor and diversity advocate in the arts.
- Osamah Almusallam: Saudi fantasy and sea fiction novelist.
- Professor Julian Jackson: Renowned 20th-century French historian.
- Azza Fahmy: Global jewellery designer and cultural icon.
- HE Dr Mahmoud Mohieldin: Special Envoy for Sustainable Development Financing.
Translation & Publishing Support
ADIBF’s dedication to championing Arabic literature and fostering cross-cultural dialogue is powerfully reflected in its ‘Spotlight on Rights’ programme.
Launched in 2009, this initiative has consistently supported publishers in translating books to and from Arabic, while also helping convert print titles into eBooks and audiobooks.
Highlights from 2024:
- 53 grants awarded
- 1,324+ books published with support
- 190+ publishers collaborated with
Who Can Apply?
All publishers participating in the 2025 Book Fair are eligible to apply. Each can submit up to 25 applications for translation or digital publication grants. Applications must be submitted online.
This programme helps spread great stories across borders and languages, opening doors for Arab and international publishers.
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.
To become an exhibitor, you must complete the registration form by January 24, 2025. Details about stand setup and packages are available in the Exhibitors’ Brochure. You can also email info@adbookfair.com for more help.
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.
