Abu dhabi: The Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre (ALC) is preparing to participate in the 31st Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair, an event organized by Morocco's Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication. Scheduled to take place from May 1 to May 10, 2026, the fair will host 891 exhibitors from 61 countries.
According to Emirates News Agency, the ALC's involvement in this year's fair aligns with its strategic vision to support the Arabic language and enhance the UAE's presence in international cultural forums. The fair will honor France as its Guest of Honour, providing a platform for the ALC to showcase 525 titles, including 50 new releases. The centre aims to engage with leading intellectuals and encourage prominent publishers and authors to attend the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair (ADIBF) 2026.
Dr Ali bin Tamim, Chairman of the ALC, expressed pride in participating in the Rabat International Book and Publishing Fair, describing it as a significant platform for the exchange of ideas among writers, thinkers, researchers, intellectuals, and publishing professionals worldwide. This edition holds particular significance as it follows UNESCO's selection of Rabat as World Book Capital 2026, prompting the ALC to intensify its presence and cultural activities at the fair.
The ALC has organized a comprehensive cultural programme to support the Arabic language and the publishing, translation, and creative industries. This includes panel discussions, workshops, and a seminar titled 'Cultural Development' alongside a conference on 'Cultural Development and the Creative Industries'. The centre will also host a book signing session with Dr Jamal Sanad Al Suwaidi, Vice Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Emirates Centre for Strategic Studies and Research (ECSSR), featuring discussions on his books.
Additionally, the ALC plans to sign a cooperation agreement with the Directorate of Books, Libraries, and Archives at the Moroccan Ministry of Youth, Culture, and Communication. This agreement involves organizing joint cultural events in Abu Dhabi and Rabat, promoting ALC projects in Morocco, and exchanging expertise between the Abu Dhabi and Rabat book fairs. The partnership will also explore joint publishing opportunities and leverage the centre's initiatives to drive digital transformation.
Through its active participation in the fair, the ALC aims to strengthen the presence of the Arabic language and bolster cultural cooperation between the UAE and Morocco, celebrating Rabat's designation as World Book Capital by UNESCO.