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 with a promise of a special and thrilling cultural encounter celebrating the enchantment 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
- Abu Dhabi Book Fair Opening Hours and Dates
- 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
Organised by the Abu Dhabi Arabic Language Centre within the Department of Culture & Tourism, the ADIBF is not merely a bookselling market. It’s a festival of intellectual exchange and innovation. This year, the fair will feature exciting panel discussions, live author presentations, art displays and expert training sessions. It will again be a centre of local and international literary discovery and education.
With the theme Knowledge Illuminates Our Community, the 2025 edition invites participants to explore how storytelling, research, art and design shape our 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 within Abu Dhabi or from another emirate.
Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, Al Rawdah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
Abu Dhabi Book Fair Opening Hours and Dates
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
Daily Timings
9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
Programmes in Abu Dhabi Book Fair 2025
The book fair features various cultural programmes to broaden the visitors’ horizons. These programmes are very inspiring and intellectually elevating. Take a look at some of the worth-catching programmes below.
Focus Personality – Ibn Sina: Explore the life and legacy of the renowned physician and philosopher through dedicated sessions and exhibits.
Guest of Honour – Egypt: Experience Egypt’s vibrant literary and cultural contributions through special pavilions and events.
Podcast from Abu Dhabi: Attend live recordings of this popular series, featuring over 50 global podcasters discussing topics ranging from literature and art to technology and society.
Art Exhibitions: Discover works by illustrators and graphic novelists, showcasing the intersection of visual art and storytelling.
Workshops and Seminars: Participate in sessions covering digital publishing, translation and the future of the book industry.
Community Stage: Attend live performances, poetry readings and cultural showcases that celebrate the region’s diverse heritage.
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.
Being part of the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair exhibitors list helps you:
- Grow your brand
- Build valuable business relationships
- Reach wider audiences
To exhibit at the 2025 fair:
- Fill out the official registration form before January 24, 2025
- Get access to your stand for setup from April 25, 2025 (8:00 AM)
Note: Custom-built stands need special permission for early access
The fair runs from April 26 to May 5, and exhibitors must complete setup by 6:00 PM on April 25. Stands must remain open during all public hours.
Esteemed Speakers of 2025
This year’s star lineup 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
https://adbookfair.com/adibf/-/media/General-Photos/01.jpg
ADIBF’s commitment to promoting Arabic literature and bridging cultures continues through the Spotlight on Rights programme.
Launched in 2009, this initiative supports publishers in translating books to and from Arabic, as well as converting printed books into eBooks and audiobooks.
Highlights from 2024:
- 53 grants awarded
- 1324+ books published with support
- 190+ publishers collaborated with
Who Can Apply?
All publishers participating in the 2025 Book Fair can 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
Is The Abu Dhabi Book Fair Free to Attend?
Yes! Entry to the book fair is free for all visitors. Some workshops or special sessions may require prior registration.
Can I Buy Books at the Abu Dhabi Book Fair?
Yes! Thousands of books across various genres and languages will be available for purchase, often at discounted rates.
Are There Activities for Children in the Abu Dhabi Book Fair?
Yes! The fair features a special Children & Youth Programme with educational activities, storytelling sessions, games and more.
How Can I Become an Exhibitor in the Abu Dhabi Book Fair?
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 [email protected] 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, make sure to explore more Abu Dhabi events on the Property Finder’s blog.
Leave a Reply