Abu dhabi: The Ministry of Culture has revealed the results of the UAE National Reading Index for 2025, which measures reading practices among members of the UAE's society every two years. The initiative reflects the country's commitment to establishing reading as a way of life within Emirati society and supporting the development of policies and plans in the fields of reading and knowledge.
According to Emirates News Agency, the index surveyed a target sample of 3,367 citizens and residents from across all Emirates, in addition to a specific group of writers, students, teachers, and parents. Their reading habits and tendencies were analysed by identifying their preferences for reading format and styles, whether traditional and emerging, in collaboration with the Federal Competitiveness and Statistics Centre.
Mubarak Al Nakhi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Culture, stated that the 2025 results reflect the continued development of the national reading landscape. He emphasized the impact of cultural and digital initiatives in supporting reading behaviours and strengthening the presence of books in people's lives, in line with the UAE's vision of building a reading society equipped with the tools for the future. Al Nakhi added that the index serves as a strategic tool to support decision-makers and guide cultural policies towards more impactful and sustainable initiatives.
The 2025 results showed that the average number of printed books read annually reached approximately six books, compared to seven in 2023. Indicating a shift towards digital and audio content, these formats recorded an average of nine books annually. The results also revealed that 54 percent of community members dedicate time daily to reading, while 40.7 percent own home libraries and 43.3 percent have designated reading spaces in their homes.
The findings indicated that 84.3 percent of community members were encouraged to read from childhood by parents or another family member. The average weekly reading time reached six hours, indicating the presence of reading within individuals' weekly routines. However, membership in reading clubs remains limited, with only 9.6 percent of community members participating.
Lack of time remains the primary challenge, with 75.7 percent of respondents indicating it limits their ability to read. The findings also highlighted qualitative challenges, including the dominance of fast-reading patterns associated with digital content, alongside a relative decline in deep reading. The results further showed that only 32.1 percent of community members consistently document their reading outcomes.
The continued strong presence of digital platforms was evident, with 89.9 percent of community members preferring to access reading material through social media, confirming its position as a key channel for knowledge content. Regarding sources of reading materials, the 2025 results showed continued reliance on online purchasing at 44.9 percent, alongside diversification in other channels.
Additionally, 67.2 percent of community members indicated that cultural and knowledge initiatives contribute to encouraging reading, while 85.5 percent expressed a desire to read more. The 2025 results also demonstrated linguistic diversity in reading patterns, with preference for English reaching 48.7 percent. Meanwhile, consistent reading in Arabic reached 27.2 percent, alongside continued use of other languages at varying levels.
Regarding Emirati literature, 91.9 percent of writers prefer reading Emirati literature. Meanwhile, the percentage of those who believe Emirati literature reflects the cultural and social landscape rose to 75 percent in 2025. In addition, 72.1 percent of writers affirmed that the publishing industry contributes to promoting literary output, with literary awards and competitions playing a significant role in showcasing creative work.
The 'UAE National Reading Index 2025' reflects the progress achieved in developing the reading landscape and confirms the success of national efforts to promote a culture of reading. By strengthening integration between traditional and digital media, the UAE continues to support the broader cultural development of the country.